New Theatre
Aylesbury’s theatre is the talk of the town! The construction work is progressing well as the final shape is now clearly recognisable.
This project forms the first phase of the Waterside development. Aylesbury Vale District Council is leading the renewal of Aylesbury town centre. Completion is expected in Spring 2010 and the opening of the theatre in late summer / early autumn. Planning is now underway to deliver the enhancements to the immediate environment which will include a large open public space at the front of the theatre.
The concept for the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre was developed by Aylesbury Vale District Council and internationally-renowned theatre designers, RHWL Arts Team. Willmott Dixon were chosen to construct the theatre.
The theatre is of regional proportion with a 1,200-seat auditorium that converts into a 1,800-capacity hall for standing events, and a 225-seat suite for smaller events including dance, drama, meetings and conferences.
Around 300,000 people from across Aylesbury Vale and beyond are expected to visit the new theatre each year to enjoy a dynamic and diverse programme of live performances which will be managed by ATG; the second largest theatre operator in the UK. The programme will be an exciting mix of West End shows, comedy, dance, concerts, gigs, pantomime, as well as international opera and ballet.
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Waterside
Aylesbury Vale District Council (AVDC) and Warner Estate have expressed their confidence in Aylesbury’s future by investing in this multi-million pound retail development.
Phase 1 of this 3 phased build is currently underway; AVDC’s new theatre will be completed in the first half of 2010.
The remaining phases will result in a mixed use development. Warner Estate are to expand their retail holdings in Hale Leys by building on the current site of the Civic Centre and swimming pool on Exchange Street. The development expands Aylesbury’s retail offer by introducing a 80,000 sq ft Debenham’s department store to Aylesbury and a further 30 shops. In addition, a 30,900 sq ft Waitrose foodstore will be located on the south side of the road between the existing Bear Brook and the canal to facilitate the creation of a large public space in front of the theatre. There are also plans for the construction of some 150 new dwelling, a 800 space multi-storey car park and a range of cafes and restaurants.
AVDC’s planning department and Bucks County Council’s transport planning department are working together to model the increase in pedestrian volumes and traffic access to both sites to ensure the safety of theatre goers and shoppers as they cross and travel down Exchange Street.
This exciting new retail expansion is the first stage in the proposal to renew Aylesbury town centre. Aylesbury Town Centre Master Plan (2009 – 2021) a project which has been led by Aylesbury Vale Advantage. This planning is at a draft stage. The aim is to rekindle the vibrancy of the town centre with further changes to the retail offer and a varied range of cultural, leisure and business premises in Aylesbury.
(Click the the images above for a larger view)
Weedon Hill
Construction of this major 48.6 hectares new development is underway. 328 homes have been completed; many of which are occupied.
With 850 homes, the completed development will form the basis for a balanced community, combining homes for families, couples and single residents within an attractive environment and supported by a range of services & facilities.
The principal developers involved, Taylor Wimpey, Careys and Persimmon are building a mix of housing types, including affordable and shared ownership homes which are being built to a very good Ecohomes standard, coupled with features that include:
- Local community centre (to include sports facilities)
- Parks, 3 play areas and open spaces
- Combined School
- Retail & food outlets
As part of the development’s sustainable environmental approach a series of landscaped ponds form part of a drainage and flood prevention system. A ‘Park-and-ride’ facility is also planned for the north of the site, on the A413.
As the community develops future facilities could include, a local ‘Pub’ and a selection of ‘live’ work units. A new Health Centre will be built in nearby Berryfields.
Aylesbury Vale District Council is the lead agency for this development.
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