Aylesbury Theatre and
Entertainment Centre

This new theatre project has recently been given planning permission by Aylesbury Vale District Council and will establish Aylesbury within the arts arena. The theatre project is the embryo for a wider masterplan scheme for Aylesbury Town Centre.

The design provides a main auditorium space which is adaptable to a number of formats - seated events (1200 capacity), standing events (1800 capacity), and a flat floor format for trade shows and exhibitions. A second multi-purpose space capable of seating 250 people is also included as part of the scheme.

A glazed fagade with rhythmic vertical larch fins meanders around the core of the auditorium box to form the foyer spaces on 3 levels. These areas will be constructed using locally sourced timbers. At the lower level, wrapped by a slate clad plinth, are the administrative and support facilities.

This building promotes a highly sustainable agenda. The use of closed loop ground source heat pumps (geothermal technology) and rainwater harvesting combine to provide renewable sources of energy.

Miles Griffies, director of Red Squirrel Architects, was the project architect for this job whilst employed at Arts Team@RHWL

The building is due to complete in 2009.