Archived press release

Date Published: 05/10/06

Exciting plans to build a new multi-million pound theatre and entertainment centre in Aylesbury have taken another important step forward. At a meeting of AVDC’s development control committee today (5 October), councillors agreed in princip...

Exciting plans to build a new multi-million pound theatre and entertainment centre in Aylesbury have taken another important step forward.

At a meeting of AVDC’s development control committee today (5 October), councillors agreed in principle to grant planning permission for the town centre development, subject to outstanding consultations being received.

The £25 million arts and entertainment venue is to be built on the southern side of Exchange Street, where the former Bucks Herald and Wilkins Solicitors offices were located. The land is currently being used as a temporary car park.

The theatre development is part of the council’s Waterside scheme – an ambitious project to redevelop Aylesbury town centre, which will also create a new shopping area in Exchange Street, including a department and food store, as well as housing developments alongside the canal and at Circus Field.

The modern five-storey complex will be bigger than Aylesbury’s Civic Centre and will offer more flexibility for users. The main hall will be able to accommodate 1,200 people for seated events, such as drama or dance productions, or 1,800 for standing events such as rock and pop concerts.

The theatre also contains a second space, suitable for smaller drama productions, conferences, workshops and community use. Regular users of the Civic Centre have been consulted over the plans for the theatre.

AVDC and theatre architects, Arts Team, have been working together on the proposals. Councillor John Cartwright, Leader of the Council, said the development control committee’s decision was a crucial step in the redevelopment of Aylesbury town centre. “I’m very pleased that we are closer to creating a first class theatre and entertainment centre in the town. We have an opportunity to develop a top quality facility for the benefit of residents and visitors, and this is a very exciting prospect,” he said.

“Securing the development control committee’s approval is an important milestone for us and we will now be fully focused on ensuring that the project comes to fruition as soon as possible, which means starting on time, finishing on time and within budget,” he added.

The architectural design of the new theatre has been inspired by the Chiltern Hills and surrounding woodland areas. Timber columns and fins will be used on the exterior of the building and the undulating roof. A sculpted slate plinth which rises and falls will be wrapped around the building. Along the length of the plinth, it is proposed to install poster panels, seating areas and lighting.

Accessibility is also a key feature of the venue, with disabled amenities provided for performers and audiences. The theatre will also have some of the most up-to-date stage equipment, sound and lighting technology.

Outside of the theatre, there will be a new pedestrian bridge across Bear Brook to the east of the complex. The scheme will also include landscaping and lighting.

Norman Bragg, Arts Team Principal Director, said: “I am delighted that the project has the support of both the council and the people of Aylesbury. We are now a significant step closer to realising this landmark building – a new future for Aylesbury Vale.”

The formal granting of planning consent is expected later this month, following the end of the consultation period and the receipt of outstanding consultations. Work will begin on the new complex in April 2007 with a view to a final opening date in 2009.