Thornfield are proud to embark on a £300 million project to change the face of Hemel Hempstead. Waterhouse Square covers 1.7 million sq ft – 30% of the town centre – and will include retail, residential and community space in addition to a landmark £25 million performing arts venue.



The challenge

Dacorum Borough Council sought a partner to undertake a major regeneration project – to redefine and raise the profile of Hemel Hempstead town centre. The 15-acre site required residential accommodation, a greater retail offering, improved transport and parking provision and a range of community amenities.



Central to the plans was a new cultural facility, to be situated in the heart of a new public square and to serve as a replacement for The Pavilion –   (WHY DEMOLISH WHEN THERE WAS LITTLE LIKELIHOOD OF A FAST REPLACEMENT , THE PAVILION WAS BETTER THAN NOTHING ?) . A real statement piece, the building was to stir up fresh public interest in Hemel Hempstead, attract top-quality performers and differentiate the town from its neighbours.



Community

In answer to the needs of the local Council and community, our plans for Waterhouse Square include a new town hall, a library, a nursing home and multi-storey car parks with 1,200 spaces. Each of these facilities – as well as the brand new public square – will help to inject new vitality and diversity into the town.



Culture

Hemel Hempstead’s 1,500-capacity performing arts venue is key to repositioning the town as a lively and accessible cultural centre. But the unique space will serve further purposes too. Architects Allies & Morrison have designed the venue for flexibility, allowing a wide range of uses.



Residential and retail

To add to the town’s social mix, we’ve worked with Dacorum Borough Council to produce plans for over 1,000 residential units, many of which will be affordable one- and two-bedroom apartments. This will be supported by around 160,000 sq ft of retail space, including a much needed anchor food store.