07/06/2026
Borough Councillor Report - June 2026
1. Tails Exploring Trails trial and New Pond at Bury Hill Meadows
Following our call-out in April the 'Tails Exploring Trails' trial took place at Bury Hill Meadows. The TVBC team talked to around 50 visitors in one morning and discussed topics such as site management, the wildlife, and the dog walking community. There were also some lovely comments and positive feedback about the site.
As a result of this successful pilot Gemma (Reserve Officer, South Sites) and Lucy (Animal Welfare Assistant) will be hosting more pop ups at TVBC’s most popular dog walking locations over the coming months to continue visitor engagement work on TVBC’s nature reserves.
On 13 May 2026, the Anton River Conservation Association (TARCA) volunteers teamed up with TVBC staff at Bury Hill, helping to line the new pond. This lining will help maintain a more permanent water level in the pond, and hopefully, encourage some wildlife to move in.
The task involved moving and then mixing four bulk bags of clay with water to create a thick paste, which was then layered onto the pond to form a watertight seal. This lining will help maintain a more permanent water level in the pond.
2. Andover theatre project update
Test Valley Borough Council has identified Morgan Sindall Construction as the preferred contractor to deliver Andover’s new theatre, subject to a contract standstill period.
The appointment will move the project into its pre-construction phase after 1 June 2026. During this stage, plans will be finalised, costs confirmed and risks managed, with no visible activity on site.
The new theatre will include a 400+ seat auditorium, flexible performance space, studios and community rooms, along with café, bar and outdoor areas.
Construction is expected to begin later this year, with completion in 2028. The existing Lights theatre will continue to operate until the new venue opens.
The project forms part of the wider Andover masterplan and is supported by £18.3 million of government funding to help regenerate the town centre and support local businesses.
3. Small businesses, big ideas as Young Traders markets return to Andover
Young people with creative ideas and a passion for business are invited to get involved as the popular Young Traders markets return to Andover for a second year.
Following the success of last year’s events, Test Valley Borough Council is bringing back two markets in 2026, giving young entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their ideas and sell their products in the heart of the town.
This year’s Young Traders markets will take place on Sunday 12 July on Andover High Street and Sunday 6 December in the Chantry Centre. They are open to anyone aged 11 to 25 and give young people the chance to sell their handmade products in a real market environment. Traders can offer a wide range of products, from handmade crafts and artwork to clothing, jewellery and unique gifts.
It is free to apply and trade, making this an accessible opportunity for young people to gain real-life experience, build confidence and see how their ideas connect with customers.
The July market will be an extension of the popular Second Sundays market, adding to the lively, open-air atmosphere on the high street, while the festive December edition in the Chantry Centre will offer a seasonal showcase of local talent and gift ideas.
Applications are now open, and young traders are encouraged to get involved early to secure their place.
To find out more about this free opportunity and to apply, please visit: https://testvalley.gov.uk/communityandleisure/markets/andover-young-trader-market-2026
4. The Fete Season has started!
Thank you to everyone who participated (organisers, volunteers and visitors) at the May Fair in Upper Clatford. Once again it was a great event - this time without too much rain! Thank you also to everyone on the plant stall who made me feel so very welcome.
Cllr Susanne Hasselmann, [email protected]
Cllr Maureen Flood, [email protected]
