Stevenage Heart Trails are launched to highlight art across the town

25 MARCH 2026

The Stevenage Heart Trails have officially launched! Spanning over 27 miles of traffic-free travel to allow the exploration and discovery of art and heritage across the different communities of Stevenage, the various routes highlight historic and new art.

The suggested routes, and the artwork they include, can be viewed online: Heart Trails – Stevenage Even Better. Over the coming weeks, each piece of artwork will have a plaque installed to share its history.

Cllr Simon Speller, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Wellbeing at Stevenage Borough Council, comments: “Art brings joy to our everyday lives. It allows us to express how we feel, celebrate where we live and take pride in place. As a town with a wealth of history and heritage, immortalising this in artworks throughout Stevenage allows everyone to learn and enjoy. As the weather starts to improve, we encourage people to utilise these trails to enjoy being outdoors and celebrating all that is great about the town”.

Cllr Richard Henry, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, added: “The regeneration of the town centre isn’t just about bricks and mortar. Alongside delivering new infrastructure, we are enhancing and celebrating the great things we already have as a town that make us unique. This includes the huge amount of artwork across the borough that we hope will be enjoyed and understood by everyone. With the support of the Stevenage Development Board through the Towns Fund, we are opening this up to be explored and appreciated by our current and future residents and communities”.

Stacked Stories, the mosaic sculpture at the Stevenage Bus Interchange by artist Donna Reeves, marks the first piece of new public artwork commissioned for the trail.

Artist Donna Reeves adds: “I’m incredibly proud to have created this community artwork for the Stevenage Bus Interchange. It is a town that holds deep personal significance for me and my family. Reconnecting with the town through art has meant a great deal to me. I’d like to extend my thanks to Stevenage Borough Council, Junction 7 Creatives, my team and Stevenage community for their support and enthusiasm throughout the project. This mosaic sculpture is a celebration of the power of art to bring people together, and I’ve loved every moment of making it”.

The Heart Trails have been funded by government’s Towns Fund through the Stevenage Development Board.

Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of the Stevenage Development Board said: “I am delighted to celebrate the launch of the Stevenage Heart Trails. A key part of the work of The Stevenage Development Board is making sure that everyone is proud of where they live and where they come from. Artworks are an essential part of this, adding colour and vibrancy to celebrate everything that is great about Stevenage.

“Working in collaboration with both the borough and county council, our recently completed programme of underpass artworks has proven incredibly popular with the local community. The Heart Trails are an extension of this, commemorating the heritage the town has whilst mirroring this in new, modern artworks.

“The project has been funded by the Stevenage Development Board through national government’s Towns Fund, of which Stevenage received £37.5m in March 2021. The Board has channelled funding for projects in the town into several key areas such as the healthy enjoyment of our facilities and improving cycling and pedestrian connectivity.

“I look forward to seeing the remaining artworks and signage installed for everyone to enjoy!”

The programme of underpass improvements and urban artworks recently delivered were a partnership between Stevenage Borough Council and Hertfordshire County Council. The Heart Trails have the full support of the county council and have been delivered collaboratively.

Mark Doran, Executive Director of Growth and Environment at Hertfordshire County Council said: “Projects like the Stevenage Heart Trails show how we can connect people with their local environment in new and engaging ways. By linking high-quality public art with accessible, traffic-free routes, we’re creating spaces that encourage people to walk, wheel, cycle, or take the bus and explore their communities.

“This collaborative programme not only celebrates Stevenage’s identity and heritage, but also supports healthier, more sustainable travel choices. It’s a great example of partners working together to deliver improvements that enhance everyday journeys and help make our places more vibrant and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike.”

 

A gateway for a new era in the UK’s first New Town

24 MARCH 2026

As Stevenage approaches the 80th anniversary of its designation as the UK’s first New Town, a once-in-a-generation regeneration opportunity is underway that will redefine the experience for people arriving into the town.

Stevenage Station Gateway will see the creation of 1,000 new homes, up to 60,000 sqm of commercial spaces and create around 1,500 new jobs.

This will be supported by new green space, public areas and improved connections between the station and town centre.

In late 2025, Stevenage Borough Council, supported by the Stevenage Development Board, signed a Development Agreement with Muse supported by ECF, the partnership between Homes England, L&G and Muse.

The partnership is now working together to progress work which will create a new district that reflects Stevenage’s growing economy, high growth industries and creates a welcoming gateway that reflects the town’s ambitions.

Cllr Richard Henry, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, said: “The town has a strong track record of attracting high value businesses and supporting SMEs, but to take the town and UK plc to the next level, the town now needs to continue to provide new facilities fit for the 21st Century”.

“The entrance to Stevenage when arriving by rail is unwelcoming and dated – a far cry from the pioneering nature of the town and its businesses,” Henry added. “The development will welcome people to the town and highlight the spirit and community of the UK’s first New Town, bringing our heritage into our future.”

Regeneration and placemaking of this scale require long-term collaboration between public and private partners, which is why Stevenage Borough Council has entered into the agreement with Muse, supported by ECF, to benefit from the partnership’s placemaking capability and investment capacity.

“The world of regeneration is complex and delivering large-scale regeneration, such as that at Stevenage Station Gateway, requires a number of partners who can all bring skills and specialisms,” added Henry.

“The advantage of collaborative working is that so much more can be achieved, and barriers such as lack of expertise can be overcome through combined knowledge and networks.”

Stevenage Station Gateway is also supported by the Stevenage Development Board, which brings together leaders from business, education and the public sector to help guide the town’s economic growth and ensure regeneration aligns with the needs of local employers.

Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of the Stevenage Development Board, said the regeneration is about connectivity and supporting the future of Stevenage’s innovation-led economy.

“Stevenage is home to a range of STEM based businesses and products developed here are attractive to worldwide customers, this is one of the reasons why a new Station Gateway is crucial, as it is the gateway to the city for four million passengers every year,” he said.

“This whole regeneration is a great way to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the town and trigger further regeneration of the first New Town.”

The vision for Station Gateway is clear, but to make that a reality requires careful planning, coordination and long-term investment.

Groundwork is already underway including engaging with major employers in the town and progressing the design and planning work needed to unlock the first phase of development.

Andy Howell, Development Director at ECF, says that Stevenage Station Gateway represents the perfect example of the type of complex and mixed-use regeneration that ECF was created to deliver.

“There aren’t many developers that will take on mixed-use projects of this scale. It will be a game-changer for the town centre, but it requires bringing together multiple partners, stakeholders and funding streams to make it happen,” he said.

“A lot of strategic work has gone into getting us to this stage. We’re working closely with the council, Homes England and partners across the town to ensure the development supports the town’s economic growth.”

The early phases will focus on sites around the station that are ready for redevelopment, helping establish the foundations for the wider transformation of the area while improving connectivity across the town centre.

“For us, the opportunity is about improving connectivity, creating vibrancy and delivering high-quality places,” Howell said.

“Town centres today need to support people living, working and spending time there throughout the day and evening.”

As plans progress, Stevenage Station Gateway will play an important role within Stevenage’s wider town centre regeneration programme, creating new homes, jobs and opportunities while supporting the future of the town’s innovation-led economy.

 

Works to begin on new Stevenage Sports & Leisure Centre

12 MARCH 2026

A new Sports & Leisure Centre is being built in Stevenage on St Georges Way. The main construction works on the new centre will be beginning in April 2026.

In order to commence works, the Stevenage Swimming Centre Car Park will be closed from Sunday 12 April, when the Swimming Centre closes at the end of the day. Hoarding will be placed around the existing car park, but access to the Swimming Centre through reception will remain unaffected.

There will be no vehicle access on site for the duration of the works, and the new car park is expected to reopen in 2028, after the new facility opens.

It is recommended that users should park at St George’s Way Multi-Story Car Park (SG1 1EP) or The Forum Car Park (SG1 1ES) during this closure. Blue badge holders can park in either car park.  Parking will be re-provided free to users of the Swimming Centre in these car parks for up to two hours and pool users will validate their parking using a tablet on the reception desk, similar to the current system at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre.

Cllr Richard Henry, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, commented: “This new facility for Stevenage is a key part of the wider transformation of the town centre, supporting the communities and businesses of Stevenage. The existing sports, health, and wellbeing services provided within Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre and Stevenage Swimming Centre are well used, and whilst we understand that the closure of the car park is frustrating, this is necessary to allow us to future proof these services by replacing them with brand new facilities in the new building”.

The new facility combines the sports facilities currently located at the Arts & Leisure Centre and Stevenage Swimming Centre. They will be re-provided in a new state of the art building with a wide range of innovative and exciting services and activities, promoting healthy living and wellbeing for residents. The new facility will have a 25-metre, 10-lane swimming pool, a teaching pool, splash pad, soft-play, a six-court sports hall, fitness suite, multi-purpose studios and a café that can be accessed from the Town Centre Gardens.

Cllr Simon Speller, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Wellbeing, added: “The existing sports and leisure centre facilities, including the current swimming pool, are well used but were designed and built in the 1960’s and 70’s. By combining leisure and sports facilities the town will not only have a much better, high-quality facility on one site, but also a highly improved customer experience with a more efficient use of space”.

The project is being partially funded through the Government’s Towns Fund. The Stevenage Development Board secured £37.5m in March 2021, and a proportion of this will be used for this new facility.

Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of the Stevenage Development Board, commented: “We are delighted that we are starting to build our fabulous new Sports & Leisure Centre in the town and we will keep our existing facilities in use while we create our fabulous new ones. This will create some inconveniences for which we apologise but the long term benefits of the new facilities will be well worth the wait.

“This project is a major feature of our Towns Fund allocation and will certainly feature strongly in the bold regeneration of our wonderful town as we continue to make Stevenage Even Better!”

Morgan Sindall Construction, who have extensive experience of building leisure facilities, have been appointed to help deliver the Sports & Leisure Centre. The upgraded facility will be managed by Everyone Active, a specialist leisure operator who operate the council’s leisure facilities within the town. Everyone Active will be liaising with their members, including schools and clubs who use the facilities, in advance of the closure to confirm parking arrangements.

Emma Curtis, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction in the Northern Home Counties, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have begun the construction of the new Stevenage Leisure Centre. This project plays a vital role in the transformation of Stevenage, and we’re delighted to be a part of it”.

Allan Prescott, Everyone Active Contract Manager, said: “The new Sports & Leisure Centre will be a fantastic addition for the town and we’re proud to be working with Stevenage Borough Council to support its delivery. We understand that the temporary closure of the car park may be frustrating for some customers, and we appreciate their patience while this important project progresses. Our priority is to keep Stevenage Swimming Centre open and accessible, and we’ll continue working closely with our members, clubs and schools to support them throughout the construction period.”

Further information can be found by visiting the website Morgan Sindall Construction to deliver Stevenage Sports & Leisure Centre | Morgan Sindall Construction, and a series of Frequently Asked Questions are listed below.

Q: How do I access the Swimming Centre?

Access to the Swimming Centre will remain unchanged and is through the main doors.

Q: Why is the existing car park going to be closed?

To ensure the safety of all Stevenage Swimming Centre users during the construction of the new facility, there will be no parking onsite for the duration of construction works.  The car park between the Swimming Centre and Bowes Lyon Centre is the location of the new facility where construction will be taking place, whilst the other car park will be used as a compound during construction.

The car park will be closed from the end of the day on Sunday 12 April. It will remain closed for the duration of the works and parking will resume when the facility opens in Spring 2028.

Q: The closure is an inconvenience. Was there no alternative?

The closure of the car park allows the existing Swimming Centre to remain open whilst the new facility is built. The other option was to close the existing Swimming Centre for two years which was not acceptable given its popularity and high levels of usage for both lessons and fun swimming.

Q:  Where should I park?

It is recommended to park at St George’s Way Multi-Storey Car Park (SG1 1EP) or The Forum Car Park (SG1 1ES) during this closure.

Q: Will parking be free for users of Stevenage Swimming Centre?

Parking will be re-provided free to users of the Swimming Centre for up to two hours. Users will need enter their vehicle registration number at the reception desk, which will allow up to two hours free parking similar to the current system that is in use.

Q: I have a blue badge. Where should I park?

Parking for blue badge holders is available within both St George’s Way Multi-Storey Car Park and The Forum Car Park. Additionally, an agreement has been reached with the neighbouring Bowes Lyon to allow their parking facility to be used for drop-off and pick-up for those with the highest accessibility needs.

Q: What about the new crossing over St Georges Way?

A pedestrian crossing is due to be installed across St Georges Way to provide a safe and easy crossing from The Forum Car Park to the existing and new facility. This is a complex process which requires the support of various partners, including the County Council. Securing the remaining permissions is in the final stages and work is due to commence in early May. It will take approximately eight weeks to complete.

Q: Has there been any consultation around this?

Engagement with the local community and users of the Swimming Centre started in November 2023 when proposals for the new Sports & Leisure Centre were first made public. Engagement, including with the clubs using the pool, was ongoing throughout the planning process and has continued until this point, and will continue throughout the construction period.

The team has spoken to swimming clubs who use the Swimming Centre about the appropriate options and mitigation measures.

Additionally, the team has engaged with representatives from invis-Ability to evaluate the proposed alternative routes for those with accessibility needs.

Q: Are the alternative car parks safe?

St George’s Way Multi-Storey Car Park has recently undergone some upgrades and is well lit with CCTV coverage on each floor, including in the stairwells. The Forum car park, located opposite the Swimming Centre, is a surface level car park and can be accessed by a well-lit pedestrian path and underpasses leading to Stevenage Swimming Centre. A new pedestrian crossing across the carriageway is also due to be opened in early summer.

Walking routes from the alternative car parks will have directional signage stencilled on to the floor to the Swimming Centre.

Q:  What about club and school coach drop-offs and pick-ups?

A temporary drop-off and pick-up area for coaches has been arranged on Cuttys Lane, developed in conjunction with Everyone Active. Everyone Active will liaise directly with the clubs and schools that use Stevenage Swimming Centre to ensure that they are aware of the new arrangements and the most appropriate walking route to the facility.

This is a temporary arrangement that will be in place for the construction period. A new coach drop off and pick up area is included as part of the new facility.

Q: Have clubs that use the pool been informed?

Yes, Everyone Active and the council are liaising with clubs that use the Swimming Centre.

Q: Where is the nearest bus stop?

The closest bus stops are along Fairlands Way (near Silam Road) and by Aldi. There is an additional bus stop on Cuttys Lane.

Q:  Where can I park my bicycle?

Existing cycle hoops are located by the Forum Car Park.

Q: What were the works that happened earlier this year?

The works that took place to the exterior of Stevenage Swimming Centre involved the construction of a new electrical substation and associated preparation.

North Hertfordshire College Engineering & Construction Campus moving to Stevenage Town Centre

17 FEBRUARY 2026

North Hertfordshire College Engineering & Construction Campus moving to Stevenage Town Centre

Works are underway to repurpose the former Stevenage Indoor Market into a new Town Centre Campus for North Hertfordshire College. The new 3600 sq m site will replace the current Engineering and Construction campus located at Fulton Close.

The new campus, which is being funded by national government’s Towns Fund through the Stevenage Development Board, will provide a dedicated study space for students, apprentices, and adult learners to develop their skills and learn their trades. Featuring dedicated bays for motor vehicle and construction trades, this purpose-built space will ensure students learn the skills for current and future construction sector needs.

The adjacent multi-storey car park on St George’s Way is remaining and does not form part of the scheme.

Cllr Loraine Rossati, Cabinet Member for Economy, Skills and Transport, comments: “The relocation of students into this brand new campus ensures that key trades continue to be taught in Stevenage. By investing in spaces such as this, learners of all ages will gain the skills and qualifications needed to support the town’s industries.  And having a lot more people in the town centre every day supports our local economy and helps our town centre to thrive”.

The works are being carried out by contractor RG Carter and are expected to be completed by Summer 2026.

Cllr Richard Henry, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, adds: “The transformation of this space forms part of the wider regeneration of the town centre and forms a key part of diversifying its uses. The continuing evolution of the town centre presents opportunities for our communities and businesses and builds on the changes that have already been delivered. By working in collaboration with our partners, we are strengthening the town centre for this and future generations”.

Kit Davies, Principal and CEO of North Hertfordshire College says: “All of us at NHC are incredibly excited to move into the new Town Centre Campus. We’re grateful for the opportunity to invest further in our students’ development, which will secure the delivery of essential skills within this priority sector. Not only will this contribute to bridging skills gaps in Hertfordshire, but will also support the trade skills pipeline locally and regionally. Being based in the town centre, our students will have access to the fantastic array of local businesses and will strengthen our relationships with the local Stevenage community. We hope this new site will not only help us generate the future construction and motor vehicle workforce but boost the local economy.”

Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of the Stevenage Development Board and the Hertfordshire Futures Main Board and Skills Board, said: “I am truly delighted to see that North Herts College are taking a further step forward in bringing their facilities closer to the heart of our Town following the development of SITEC Phase 1 for Life Sciences and truly looking forward to the launch of SITEC Phase 2 for Advanced Manufacturing in the Town.

“These amendments encourage a greater use of the Towns facilities and a fabulous alternative use of our Market facilities now moved to an area with far greater access. The amendments and combinations create a 21st century use of the Towns new facilities.”

You can find out more at https://www.nhc.ac.uk/discover/our-campuses/town-centre-campus/.

Claxton House reaches new heights with topping out ceremony

26 JANUARY 2026

Representatives from Stevenage Borough Council, Mace and Gilbert Ash have come together to mark Claxton House reaching its highest point with a topping out ceremony at the town centre site in Stevenage.

Claxton House, formerly known as Swingate House, is named after Eric Claxton, who played a key role in the creation of Stevenage New Town as a member of the Stevenage Development Corporation. At ten storeys high, the site will deliver 261 new homes and a ground floor commercial unit, providing much needed new homes within the town.

Cllr Richard Henry, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, commented: “This milestone reiterates a clear commitment from both the council and our partners in the ongoing transformation of the town. This is a key part of the next stage of the town centre regeneration story to continue to deliver a thriving town for people to live, work and visit. We are proud of how Stevenage is evolving and look forward to the next phases of the wider SG1 masterplan beginning”.

The development forms part of the wider SG1 masterplan for Stevenage Town Centre, which in its entirety will deliver new homes, jobs, office and retail space, alongside new public spaces.

The site is being brought forward by Mace, in partnership with Stevenage Borough Council.

Mark Reynolds, Mace Group Executive Chair, says: “The delivery of these high quality, safe and sustainable new homes mark a meaningful step in shaping the new town centre that people are proud to call home. Their delivery demonstrates the strength of our long-term partnership with Stevenage Borough Council and the shared ambition that is driving genuine regeneration across the town.

“As these homes come to market, we remain focused on the wider programme that will create new opportunities for residents and businesses while supporting the continued transformation of Stevenage for years to come.”

Damien McKenna, Contracts Manager at Gilbert Ash, added: “This Topping Out ceremony is a momentous milestone for Gilbert-Ash and all parties involve, and one which celebrates the team’s involvement in developing the structure to this stage.

“This accomplishment is the result of seamless collaboration across design, delivery, and quality, supported by a highly skilled workforce and a management team dedicated to excellence.

“This milestone underscores our shared vision and determination to deliver outstanding results for stakeholders and the wider Stevenage community.”

Part of the early works were funded through the multi-million-pound Growth Deal funding secured by Hertfordshire Futures (formerly LEP) for Stevenage regeneration.

Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of Hertfordshire Futures and Chair of Stevenage Development Board, added: “I am delighted to see that one of our Mace projects related to our first SG1 regeneration projects area in the town is now starting to take shape. As Chair of the Stevenage Development Board, it is great to see so many projects now physically taking place and hopefully this is further confirmation to our residents and businesses that Stevenage is evolving into the 21st century. We are committed to many exciting changes during our regeneration programme and Claxton House has progressed extremely well this past 12 months”.

Major milestone for delivery of Stevenage Station Gateway announced

12 JANUARY 2026

An agreement has been signed to drive forward the development of Stevenage Station Gateway.

This scheme is the latest element in the wider Stevenage town centre transformation.  With an estimated value in the region of £1bn, the scheme will deliver at least 1,000 new homes, improved station facilities, and approximately 50,000 sqm of other development, including new public amenities and community spaces, set along a landscaped street that connects the town centre to the new station facilities and the Leisure Park beyond.

Stevenage Borough Council, with support from the Stevenage Development Board, has signed the development agreement with Muse Place supported by ECF, a partnership between Muse, Homes England and L&G. The project was procured by Pagabo via the use of the Developer Led Framework which it manages on behalf of contracting authority Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Trust.

Councillor Richard Henry, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, said: “Ahead of this year’s 80th anniversary of Stevenage becoming designated as the UK’s first New Town, this deal marks an important milestone in the next chapter of the town centre’s regeneration. Delivered in partnership with ECF, Station Gateway will reflect what our town needs and deserves and will bring with it new homes, workspaces and jobs for our local communities.”

Sir Michael Lyons, Chair at ECF, said: “Stevenage Borough Council has an ambitious vision for Stevenage and the signing of this agreement helps to move this one step closer to reality. We are pleased to take our commitment to the project further, unlocking this unique opportunity to create growth and community value in this fantastic location.”

Chris Scott, Development Director at Muse, said: “We are excited to have formalised our partnership with Stevenage Borough Council for Station Gateway, and look forward to collaborating with the people and businesses of Stevenage as we move into the next phase of masterplanning. We believe successful regeneration is rooted in understanding and responding to the aspirations of the community, and our aim is to shape a detailed vision for Station Gateway that truly reflects the town’s priorities, while also recognising Stevenage’s national and international strategic importance.”

Jonathan Parker, Development Director at Pagabo, said: “Through our procurement expertise, we are pleased to have supported Stevenage Borough Council in appointing the right development partner for Station Gateway. Our role has been to provide a compliant, efficient and transparent route to market that gives confidence to all parties and accelerates delivery. This agreement demonstrates how effective procurement can unlock ambitious community led regeneration projects and help turn long-term visions for places like Stevenage into reality.

Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of Stevenage Development Board, said: “Station Gateway is a key part of the regeneration of England’s first New Town. The Stevenage Development Board has played a central role in this and have been actively working since 2023 to this end. We are delighted that it has now progressed to the next stage and welcome this investment from the private sector. This deal builds upon the initial support provided by the Stevenage Development Board, and we look forward to continuing to support this partnership as SBC and ECF work together to deliver this important scheme to make Stevenage Even Better.”

In the development of the station multi-storey car park, the area has already benefited from £6 million of investment through national government’s Towns Fund, secured by the Stevenage Development Board. ECF’s involvement will facilitate the wider development and investment around and including the rail station.

The next step for the project is the creation of a detailed masterplan, building upon the vision already outlined. SBC and ECF are committed to working with the community and ensuring that their feedback has a meaningful impact on the plans.

Consultation on the detailed masterplan will continue the next chapter in first half of 2026. There will be lots of ways to get involved, including online surveys, community drop-in events, stakeholder meetings, and opportunities to provide written feedback. Details will be widely publicised to make participation as easy as possible.

Subject to securing the necessary grant funding from government, the ambition is for construction to begin in 2028, with the first homes completed in 2030.

Tell us your thoughts on underpass artworks in Stevenage

17 MARCH 2025

Have you been enjoying the underpass artworks in Stevenage?

We are asking for your views on the artworks, so please do complete this survey to tell us what you think: https://forms.office.com/e/z9jKcSFETM.

As part of a collaboration between Stevenage Borough Council and Hertfordshire County Council, and funded by the Stevenage Development Board through Towns Fund, underpasses have been transformed throughout the town. Seven designs have been completed, and there is more to come!

The Guinness Partnership celebrates completion of first phase of work at Stevenage town centre site

4 MARCH 2025

The Guinness Partnership, one of England’s largest housing associations, held an event to celebrate completion of work on the first phase of their development at the former Matalan site in Danesgate, Stevenage.

The event was attended by The Guinness Partnership’s Group Chief Executive Catriona Simons who was joined by the House of Lords Minister for Housing and Local Government, Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Kevin Bonavia MP and the Mayor of Stevenage, Cllr Jim Brown.

They were also joined by representatives from Stevenage Borough Council including Council Leader, Cllr Richard Henry and the Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Jackie Hollywell. Along with members of Guinness’s senior development team, including Group Director of Development & Commercial Services, Kevin Williams, Lovell Regional Managing Director, Lorraine Casey and representatives from Stevenage Development Board and global consultancy, Turner & Townsend.

The appointed contractors, Lovell Partnerships, have now completed work on the first phase of construction at the prominent town centre site. Planning permission was granted in 2021 by Stevenage Borough Council, for the development of a new high quality residential community designed by award-winning architects Maccreanor Lavington.

The delivery of the new development will take place in phases. The now completed first phase, across two blocks located on the eastern part of the site, consists of 143 one and two-bedroomed apartments for social rent, providing a new and very valuable source of affordable homes located in the heart of Stevenage. It will also include one of the internal landscaped gardens serving the development.

Catriona Simons, Group Chief Executive at The Guinness Partnership said: “We are pleased to see the completion of this important residential-led regeneration project which is very much part of the Borough Council’s ambitions for a vibrant and revitalised town centre. We are grateful for the support and positive approach from Stevenage Borough Council since we first acquired the site, as well as Homes England who have provided grant funding for the project: thank you to all our partners for making these homes a reality in a challenging economic climate.”

Kevin Bonavia MP said: “I’d like to thank the Guinness Partnership, Lovell Partnership and Stevenage Borough Council for their combined efforts to complete Phase 1 of the ‘Matalan site’ development – delivering an initial 143 homes for social rent in the heart of our town centre. The new social rent homes and commercial space will play a key part in the overall town centre regeneration, which is now accelerating post-covid. The homes will help get local people off waiting lists or out of the crowded rental market into good quality housing. Let’s keep matching the aspirations of Stevenage people and build the housing needed now and in the future.”

Cllr Jackie Hollywell, Cabinet Member for Housing at Stevenage Borough Council, comments: “This is a fantastic development for Stevenage. The delivery of this first phase provides homes to be offered as affordable tenures, including social rent right in the heart of the town. We are providing for local people, and we look forward to the first tenants moving in. My thanks go to all the partners who have helped to deliver this development.”

Lorraine Casey, Regional Managing Director at Lovell said: “We are proud to have built a high-quality development delivering much needed affordable homes for local people. The new apartments are highly sustainable with features including air source heat pumps and energy efficient fabric, giving a high thermal performance resulting in lower bills for the new residents. We hope the new community enjoy living here for many years to come.”

Additional funding for the first phase of 143 homes was received from Homes England. The overall plans involve the construction of 526 one and two-bedroomed apartments along with 779 sq. m of flexible commercial space located at street level which aims to create active street frontages.

Expansion of Co-Space in Stevenage completed

20 FEBRUARY 2025

Works to expand the premises of flexible office space provider Co-Space in Stevenage Town Centre have been completed.

In 2021, the council converted under-used commercial space into flexible office space for a range of businesses, from single-person start-ups, to established financial services providers. The facility, managed by Co-Space, brought over 300 jobs into the town centre.

Following huge success, the space has now expanded into the neighbouring Town Square Chambers that preside over Event Island. Funded through government’s Towns Fund using funding secured by The Stevenage Development Board, the facility has delivered an additional 900sqm of quality office space to the town centre – equivalent to 150 desks. This encourages new business and associated footfall and spend to the town, whilst refurbishing an ageing building with a 24-hour operator.

Cllr Lloyd Briscoe, Cabinet Member for Economy, Skills and Transport, comments: “Stevenage Town Centre is undergoing a transformation, introducing a greater mix of uses to benefit both residents and businesses. This includes increasing commercial space, including flexible options to allow businesses to flourish within the town. We are delighted that Co-Space, offering desks and meeting spaces in a smart and spacious interior, have chosen to expand their premises here. This delivers local benefits such as an increase in spend within the town. As Stevenage continues to evolve, we welcome this expansion and thank all of our partners who have helped to deliver this”.

Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of the Stevenage Development Board, adds: “The expansion of the Co-Space facility in Stevenage is clear proof that our plans for regeneration of the town are having a positive impact. Refreshing 1950’s buildings is highly sustainable, truly cost effective given the benefit derived and supports the provision of shared office space that is required in the modern age.

“Co-Space has demonstrated a distinctive style for this service and the council has moved quickly and efficiently in the direction of market demand. This extension is yet another example of our commitment to regeneration and supporting residents and businesses”.

Operator Co-Space run offices in Reading, Milton Keynes and Stevenage, with a St Albans office opening soon.

William Stokes, CEO and Co-Founder of Co-Space, adds: “We’re excited to work in partnership with Stevenage Borough Council and ASHE once again to expand our current Co-Space offering, and support the facilitating of 200 new job roles right in the heart of Stevenage. We’re grateful for everyone’s hard work pulling this project together and ensuring we’re able to support local businesses to grow and thrive.”

Delivered by contractor Ashe Group and as part of social value, throughout the construction two previously out of work individuals have been employed and donations made to local charities.

Andrew Morris, Business Development Director at Ashe Group, comments: “Ashe is delighted to have been asked back to undertake the next phase of refurbishment at the Co-Space facility in Stevenage. Being a local contractor, our focus has been on employing local people through our supply chain partners, ensuring that money generated by the construction project is recycled into the local economy.

“It has also allowed us to take on unemployed local people, give them training and prepare them for a future in construction. We have visited local schools and supported local charities as part of our social value commitments for this scheme.

“When complete the project will continue to support the local community in providing an outstanding working environment that will allow businesses to thrive.

“We are incredibly proud assisting in the regeneration of the heart of Stevenage and look forward to future opportunities to continue the good work being undertaken by all partners.”

Have Your Say on updated designs for a new Sports & Leisure Centre

WEDNESDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2025

In late 2024 Stevenage Borough Council shared initial designs to seek feedback for a proposed new Sports & Leisure Centre in the town. This new facility will bring together sports, leisure and swimming facilities under one roof, whereas they are currently provided at Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, and Stevenage Swimming Centre.

The council would like to thank everyone who shared their views or came to see the project team at in-person sessions. Having reviewed the feedback, we are asking local communities, residents and businesses to share their views again on updated designs.

The health and wellbeing of Stevenage residents is a key priority for the council and this facility is designed to allow the community to access and enjoy sports and leisure activities in a purpose-built building.

The proposals are available to view online via the Stevenage Even Better website (Sports & Leisure Centre – Stevenage Even Better : Stevenage Even Better) and Stevenage Borough Council website (New Sports & Leisure Centre for Stevenage) including a feedback form where you can leave your feedback. Hard copies of these are also available to complete at Stevenage Swimming Centre and Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, in the gym reception.

If you would like to speak to a member of the project team, a series of drop-in sessions are taking place where you can view the designs and discuss the proposals:

  • Saturday 22 February, 12:00 – 14:00, Westgate Shopping Centre (opposite River Island and Walkwel)
  • Monday 24 February, 18:30 – 20:00, Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre (gym reception)
  • Wednesday 26 February, 12:00 – 14:00, 21 Town Square (former McDonalds Unit)
  • Saturday 1 March, 10:30 – 12:30, Stevenage Swimming Centre
  • Monday 3 March, 18:30 – 20:00, Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre (gym reception)
  • Wednesday 5 March, 12:00 – 14:00, Westgate Shopping Centre (opposite River Island and Walkwel)
  • Saturday 8 March, 10:30 – 12:30, Stevenage Swimming Centre

The closing date for sharing your comments is Sunday 9 March at 5pm.

Cllr Loraine Rossati, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Wellbeing, said: “I would like to thank everyone who shared their feedback on the initial designs, which has been largely positive. Your views have been heard and we are working hard to progress a facility that allows the vast majority of people to participate in sports, leisure and wellbeing activities. Whilst we will accommodate as much as we can, this is designed to be a general facility and we will not be able to include all specialist sports. There are other facilities in the town for these and we will work with local clubs if they wish to transfer elsewhere. I encourage our residents and businesses to engage with the next set of designs as we continue to work together on this exciting new offer for the town”.

The project will be partially funded through the Government’s Towns Fund. The Stevenage Development Board secured £37.5m in March 2021, and a proportion of this will be used for this new facility.

Adrian Hawkins OBE, Chair of the Stevenage Development Board, commented:

“The proposed new Stevenage Sports & Leisure Centre will be delivered using funds from the Stevenage Development Boards successful application to the Governments Town Fund. We are delighted to be bringing this spectacular project to fruition with the great support of Stevenage Borough Council.

“We have been absolutely delighted by the overwhelming interest of the public in the latest consultation and the constructive views which have been expressed by everyone.

“The proposed new Sports & Leisure Centre will be a modern, state of the art facility with activities including swimming, studios, gym, flexible sports and leisure space. The public response has so far been very supportive and we have also been pleased to see the community engage with the proposals.

“The Stevenage Development Board and the council is committed to providing only the best sports and leisure facilities for the people of the town and we are ensuring that it will be a facility that everyone can use and be proud of”.

Morgan Sindall Construction, experts in building leisure facilities, have been appointed to help deliver the Sports & Leisure Hub whilst architect FaulknerBrowns are designing the facility. The upgraded services will be managed by Everyone Active, a specialist leisure operator who operate the council’s leisure facilities within the town.

Further information can be found on the Stevenage Even Better website: stevenage-even-better.com/.