Plans for a new theatre venue at The Lights in Andover have been approved, with planning consent granted by Test Valley Borough Council's planning committee.

The new three-storey venue will feature a state-of-the-art auditorium with seating for over 400 people, a significant increase from the current 249-seat theatre. The design also includes a separate, flexible space for performances and events, dance studios, meeting rooms available for public hire, and café and bar areas at either end of the building. Outdoor terraced spaces will offer visitors pleasant areas to relax during warmer months.

The Lights, a long-standing community hub, has become increasingly oversubscribed, driving the need for expansion to meet growing demand. The new venue will allow simultaneous use of the auditorium and secondary event space, while classes and meetings can take place throughout the building. With quality soundproofing and a design supporting nearly 1,000 people at full occupancy, the theatre is expected to boost Andover’s daytime and evening economy by attracting more visitors to the town centre.

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The design, developed by theatre specialists Burrell Foley Fischer, reflects the character of Andover’s historic centre while providing modern, accessible facilities. Inspired by St Mary’s Church and the Guildhall, the façade will feature a series of stone arches forming a striking colonnade, crafted from light-coloured stone to reflect the local chalk stream, with pale brick, natural flint, and bronze accents.

Councillor Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said: "This is a landmark moment for Andover. The new theatre will be a place to celebrate creativity and community – and a catalyst for economic growth. It's a key part of our wider regeneration plans and will help bring more people into the town centre, day and night."