Plans for a new Community Hub in Thatcham are taking shape, with work now underway to explore what the space could look like and how it will serve the town’s growing population.
Exciting plans are underway for a new Community Hub in Thatcham, aimed at enhancing the town's growing population. With work now in progress to envision the space, local residents will have a say in its design later this year.
Initiated by Thatcham Town Council and backed by West Berkshire Council, the hub concept emerged from the 2023 Thatcham Town Centre Strategy study based on community feedback.
The vision is to turn the Brownsfield Road and Memorial Fields area into a vibrant community spot, featuring sports facilities, creative spaces, and entertainment options. Plus, there are plans to improve access between the hub and the town centre across Bath Road.
Funding for the project comes from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with consultants Adams & Sutherland, known for the Newbury Wharf project, leading the design efforts.
So far, £375,000 has been secured from the Thames Valley Local Enterprise Partnership, alongside an additional £420,000 from the Shared Prosperity Fund for related projects.
Justin Pemberton, Executive Member for Economic Development at West Berkshire Council, stated: “The Community Hub will celebrate Thatcham, enhancing existing facilities while creating new opportunities for residents and visitors. It will unite culture, history, health, and sustainability, supporting everyday life.”
Once a preferred design is agreed upon by March 2026, the focus will shift to securing further funding.
Additionally, a charity is planning to build a hub for people diagnosed with dementia and their families in collaboration with the Greenham Trust, aiming to support patients from Thatcham and North Hampshire.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
