Dan Quina Brito

Chapel Arts Studios will host State of Flux at The Chapel in St Mary's Cemetery, Andover, from August 22 to September 5, 2026, as part of Hampshire Open Studios. The exhibition features experimental contemporary work by artists in the studio's Associate Artist Programme, exploring transformation and metamorphosis. Director Russ Tunney says the event will support local artists and demonstrate the contribution of arts and culture to community life, while Test Valley councillor Iris Andersen encourages residents to attend and support the artists.

Overnight resurfacing has begun on King Arthur’s Way beside Knights Enham School in Andover, following years of complaints about potholes, uneven surfaces and temporary repairs. The road had not been resurfaced for 27 years, and school leaders warned that its condition posed safety risks to pupils, staff and families. Work is scheduled from August 17 to 25 between 8pm and 6am, with closures and access restrictions managed to minimize disruption; daytime bus services are expected to continue normally.

Test Valley Borough Council has proposed selling two areas of public open space in Andover: a 425.9-square-metre plot behind the Town Mills Public House and a 140.9-square-metre plot near 20 Town Mills. The council must advertise the proposed freehold sale and consider objections under the Local Government Act 1972. Residents can inspect a plan at the council’s Beech Hurst offices or request it by email, with written objections due by September 4, 2026.

Steven Earle, known online as the King of the Grime, is set to appear on Hampshire TV after his community clean-up initiative became a Community Interest Company and completed its first paid job. The Andover-based group plans to reinvest all earnings into larger projects and is seeking donated tools and equipment from local businesses. Earle says the initiative is gaining momentum and aims to improve public spaces across the town.

Gas mains replacement works on Floral Way in Andover are scheduled to begin on August 24 and last approximately five weeks. I&G Contractors Limited will carry out the work for SGN under a mandatory Health and Safety Executive programme intended to improve gas network safety, reliability and leak prevention. Temporary multi-way traffic lights will be in place, and residents and motorists are advised to expect delays and allow extra travel time.

Lovell’s social value team redecorated a classroom at Ludgershall Castle Primary School during the summer holidays, with paint and brushes donated by supplier Crown Paints. The work was carried out by Noorhan Griffiths and Meriel Gough with premises manager Helen Price, completing the makeover before the autumn term. Headteacher Sophie Lowe said the refurbishment would support a positive learning environment for pupils and staff.

More than 65 discarded cigarette butts and a pile of litter were found near a bin at Mill Lane Meadows nature reserve in Sherfield English during a prolonged dry spell. Test Valley Borough Council warned that careless disposal of cigarettes could trigger wildfires and endanger people, wildlife, livestock and countryside. Residents were urged to use bins and take extra care with potential fire hazards, while volunteers, staff and community members were thanked for maintaining local green spaces.

Three children were reported to have entered an abandoned office building at Waterloo Court in Andover on August 15. The site, Hambledon House, had previously been searched by Hampshire Police after reports of suspicious activity led to the discovery of a cannabis factory containing more than 1,800 plants. Police did not attend the latest incident but alerted site security. The force warned that large-scale cannabis operations can be linked to organised crime and create serious fire risks because of hazardous electrical modifications.

The Kitten’s Emporium, an Andover craft, gift and clothing shop led by Kitty Skye, has received up to £1,200 through Test Valley Borough Council’s Independent Retailer Grant. The funding supports businesses occupying empty ground-floor town-centre premises and is paid in two stages after three and nine months of trading. Councillor Iris Andersen praised the shop for providing a platform for dozens of small businesses and contributing to local economic growth.

Test Valley Borough Council has welcomed the aim of creating more diverse and vibrant high streets in Andover and Romsey, while awaiting details of government plans to give councils greater control over vape shops, betting shops and adult gaming centres. The council highlighted grants for independent retailers and new businesses, shop-front improvements in Andover, and regeneration projects including a new theatre and Romsey’s South of Town Centre scheme. The measures are intended to reduce empty premises, broaden town-centre services and increase visitor footfall.

Demolition of the former Weyhill Fair pub on Weyhill Road is underway after planning permission was granted for nine homes on the 0.33-hectare site. Rivendale Developments says the homes will follow a rural farmyard-style layout around a central courtyard and are expected to be ready for occupation in early summer 2027. The pub, formerly known as the Sun Inn and operating since at least the 19th century, closed in January 2023 after poor financial performance; planning documents said no pub operators made offers to retain it as a pub.

Andover College students achieved strong results across A-levels, T-levels and vocational courses. Eighty per cent of A-level courses recorded a 100 per cent pass rate, while T-level students achieved a 98 per cent pass rate, with 80 per cent receiving a merit or higher. More than 150 students applied to university, while others secured apprenticeships and jobs. College leaders praised the students and staff, and several students described their university and career plans.

Shepherds Row leaseholders in Andover have complained to the Housing Ombudsman about Aster Group’s proposed £145,000 roof and chimney works, which could cost some households more than £12,000 each. Residents question the need and cost of the work, the Section 20 consultation process, scaffolding charges, door and security upgrades, unexplained service-charge increases, alleged nonexistent or incomplete work, and wider maintenance and safety issues. Aster says essential repairs and improvements are needed, that it followed the statutory consultation process, and that work is due to begin while the Ombudsman considers the complaint.

Students at Andover College celebrated receiving A-level, T-level and vocational results on August 13, supported by family, friends and staff. The college reported a 100% pass rate in 80% of its A-level courses and a 98% T-level pass rate, five percentage points above the national average. Students are progressing to university, employment, apprenticeships and further study, including Rosie O'Brien, who plans to study social sciences at the University of Sussex.

A vacant unit in Andover’s Chantry Centre will host “Where the Ash Trees Grow,” a month-long community art installation led by artist and storyteller Amanda Kane-Smith. From August 7 to August 31, visitors can create handmade ash trees, leaves and chalk-stream ripples representing their thoughts, hopes and wishes. Free activities will include photography workshops for teenagers and craft sessions at Andover Library, with support from Andover Trees United, Andover Museum and Unity Art Studio. The project aims to celebrate Andover’s heritage, involve people of all ages and provide accessible creative opportunities.

Hampshire Police are appealing for witnesses and information after a man was reportedly assaulted on Andover High Street at 5:13pm on August 11. Officers attended and spoke with witnesses, but the victim had left and has not been identified. Enquiries are ongoing, and information can be provided to police on 101 using reference 44260389119 or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

Roadworks near Andover War Memorial Hospital will close part of Charlton Road from Wednesday, August 12, until the end of August. During the works, vehicles will only be able to reach the hospital from the western end of Charlton Road via Harrow Way. Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is urging patients, visitors and other travellers to plan ahead and allow extra time for journeys.

Residents have objected to Bellway Homes' proposal for up to 900 homes at Enham Park, north of Saxon Way in Andover. They cite concerns about traffic, overstretched schools and healthcare, environmental damage, loss of countryside and habitats, heritage impacts, and the area's ability to absorb more residents. Bellway says the scheme would help address Test Valley's housing shortage by providing around 40% affordable homes, community facilities, jobs and public open space. The application is registered with Test Valley Borough Council under reference 26/01622/OUTN.

Clive Elliman, founder of Safe Seniors Companionship in Andover, is challenging the refusal of his application for a Blue Badge, which he says would help him transport elderly and disabled clients to medical appointments and social activities. Hampshire County Council says its policy allows badges for organizations providing medical and personal care alongside transport, or for large voluntary driver charities, but excludes commercial driver organizations. Elliman argues that this interpretation overlooks the practical support his service provides, while councillor Iris Andersen says the case highlights broader difficulties in accessing Blue Badges, particularly for people with less visible disabilities.

Andover New Street defeated Christchurch FC 5-0 at the DH Property Services Stadium in the FA Cup, with all five goals coming in the second half. Zach Hine opened the scoring and added a second before Malachi Dotse completed a hat-trick, including a goal from Jake Rawkins’ corner. Goalkeeper Luke Cairney recorded his third consecutive clean sheet and contributed accurate kicks that helped create attacking chances. The victory was watched by 178 fans and earned New Street progression to the next round.

Test Valley Borough Council’s Northern Area Planning Committee unanimously approved a non-material amendment to the Western Avenue regeneration scheme. The change replaces a cellular construction method with supervised construction near protected trees, while retaining the same trees and protection measures. The scheme includes closing the southbound carriageway of the Western Avenue gyratory and creating a riverside park. An objector raised concerns about inconsistencies and resident notification, but council officers said there was no legal requirement to consult residents on the amendment and that procedural complaints should follow the council’s complaints process.

A Young Traders Market in Andover gave 10 entrepreneurs aged 11 to 25 the opportunity to sell handmade products alongside the town’s Second Sundays market on July 12. Councillor Iris Andersen of Test Valley Borough Council praised the participants for developing business skills, earning money, raising funds for charity and exploring future business plans. Applications are open for the next market, scheduled for December 6 at the Chantry Centre.

Test Valley Borough Council’s Northern Area Planning Committee unanimously approved amendments concerning the long-term landscape and ecological management of the Western Avenue regeneration project in Andover. The application discharges a planning condition requiring a Landscape and Environmental Management Plan, while leaving the approved development unchanged. The wider scheme includes a riverside park, landscaped areas, play facilities, cycle routes and public spaces replacing the former gyratory.

The Rotary Club of Andover will hold two summer fundraising events: a concert at the Mind Garden in Longstock on August 14 supporting Andover Mind, and a cream tea at Andover Guildhall on August 23 supporting two local charities. The events will feature live music, with tickets priced at £10 for the concert and £17.50 for the cream tea.

Test Valley Borough Council received a range of planning applications for the Northern Area Planning Office during the week ending 2 August 2026. Proposals include home extensions, conversions, new dwellings, commercial signage, a swimming pool and pool house, a public café at Nether Wallop’s recreation ground, and an outline scheme for up to 900 homes with community, care, business and service uses at Enham Lane. Residents can inspect documents and submit comments to the council by post, email or through its website.

A man was arrested on suspicion of careless driving and an offence under Section 4 of the Road Traffic Act after a single-vehicle collision on Station Road in Tidworth shortly after 9 p.m. No injuries were reported, but concerns about a nearby gas main led to the evacuation of homes within 100 metres and closures on Station Road and Perham Down Road. The investigation remains ongoing.

Bellway Homes has submitted an outline application for up to 900 homes on farmland north of Saxon Way on Andover’s northern edge. The proposal includes land for community, care or commercial uses, 33 hectares of public green space, parks, allotments and active-travel routes. Bellway describes the scheme as a sustainable urban extension, while planning documents cite heritage buffers, lower densities and archaeological protections. Residents have raised concerns about traffic, the loss of farmland and wildlife, estate maintenance, water use and the cumulative number of homes in the area. Test Valley Borough Council is expected to decide the application by November 16.

High Score Arcades in Andover’s Chantry Centre is offering 10 free gaming tickets for residents aged 50 and over during a 10am session on August 12. The initiative, organized with Test Valley Borough Councillor Iris Andersen, aims to reduce isolation and make older residents feel included during the summer holidays. Arcade supervisor Aquina Viveiros said the venue is wheelchair accessible, offers games requiring minimal movement including virtual reality experiences, and has staff available to assist visitors. Places are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Fyfield residents say Test Valley Borough Council has abandoned rural communities by pursuing large-scale housing growth despite narrow roads, limited pavements, inadequate amenities, parking pressures, and concerns about water and sewerage capacity. Residents and parish councillors argue that local planning input has been disregarded and question a 78% increase in the borough’s housing target. Council planning cabinet member Phil Bundy attributes the difficulties to national policy changes and speculative development, while confirming that the council is reviewing its Local Plan strategy.

Test Valley Borough Council’s Northern Area Planning Committee is due to consider two non-material amendments to the planned Western Avenue riverside park in Andover. The changes would update tree-protection requirements for construction near three trees and allow the Landscape and Environmental Management Plan to be approved before the park opens rather than before construction begins. Planning officers say the amendments would preserve environmental safeguards and leave the approved scheme substantially unchanged. If approved, the park—with landscaping, play areas, a pavilion, river viewing platforms and an off-road cycleway—could proceed under the revised conditions.

A guide to 13 family-friendly activities taking place in Andover during the summer holidays, including museum craft clubs, markets, storytelling workshops, skateboarding and gaming sessions, community art, a street party and free events. Activities run throughout August at venues including Andover High Street, the Museum of the Iron Age, Harmony Woods and local community facilities, with many events free or low-cost.

Caroline and Kevin Mitchell are creating Fred’s Place in memory of their son Fred, who died at 33 after struggling with ADHD, worsening mental health and addiction. The proposed charity would provide a judgment-free hub, potentially including a coffee shop where men could request a discreet “wooden spoon” signal for help, receive initial support and be directed to professional services. The family has raised £5,870 and is seeking trustees, volunteers and partner organizations to establish the charity in Andover.

Enham Hub in Enham Alamein has reopened after a major refurbishment led by Aster Group. The upgraded facility combines customer, community and staff spaces, expands facilities for Enham Trust’s Choices day-service programme for disabled people, and includes modern workspaces, accessibility improvements and a weekday café. Local officials attended the opening and praised the investment. Aster Group is also seeking permission to convert the lower ground floor into business units and offices to support the village’s long-term sustainability.

The Arbory care home in Picket Twenty has opened a dedicated Family Room to give residents a comfortable and private space to spend time with relatives and friends. The room is intended to support meaningful visits, family celebrations and emotional wellbeing, reflecting the home's wider focus on maintaining relationships alongside day-to-day care.

Independent candidate James Thomas was elected to Andover Town Council’s Downlands ward in a by-election, winning 294 votes against Liberal Democrat candidate Josie Msonthi’s 126. Of the 422 votes cast, two ballots were rejected. Thomas thanked residents, volunteers and his opponent, and pledged to be an active, visible and transparent representative.

Power Word International Church in Andover has launched its first five-day Vacation Summer School for children during the school holidays. The programme combines faith teaching with arts and crafts, baking, tie-dye and outdoor activities, aiming to reduce screen time, encourage interaction and give young people a positive alternative to spending time on the streets. Organizer Kimisha hopes to expand the scheme next year and involve more churches, while Test Valley Borough Council councillor Iris Andersen welcomed the initiative.

Test Valley Borough Council will host a free Skate Jam at Smannell Road Skate Park in Andover on Tuesday, August 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is open to skaters of all ages and abilities and will feature skating, music and community activities. No advance booking is required, and a limited number of skateboards will be available for attendees who do not have their own.

Imperial Homes is seeking full planning permission from Test Valley Borough Council for 36 homes north of Walworth Road at Picket Piece, including new roads, parking, landscaping and open space. The proposal would demolish a former chapel and remove two protected trees. Local opinion is divided: some residents cite road safety, traffic, pressure on services, heritage and wildlife concerns, while another neighbour supports the scheme but wants traffic calming and permanent speed warnings. Hampshire County Council’s flood authority has also questioned whether the clay ground can adequately support infiltration drainage and warned of possible uncontrolled runoff onto Walworth Road. The council is still considering application 26/01086/FULLN.

Whittle & S’more Forest School in Ludgershall was vandalised twice in two days, with toys, equipment and sheds damaged and the second attack described as substantially worse than the first. Correct Contract Services donated £500 toward repairs, while a community fundraising appeal raised £1,255 against an initial £700 target. Further donations are being sought to restore the outdoor learning space and resume sessions.

Plans have been submitted to build four homes—two bungalows and two two-storey houses—in the rear garden of Greenacre, a bungalow on Walworth Road in Picket Piece, Andover. The existing bungalow would remain, while a shared drive, parking, turning space, cycle storage and biodiversity measures are proposed. Two previous development schemes for the site were refused or withdrawn over concerns including overdevelopment, access, drainage, biodiversity and building scale. Test Valley Borough Council had not yet opened the application for public comments when reported, with a determination deadline of September 17.

A new mural is proposed for a council-owned wall on Chantry Street in Andover, beside the existing Hendog artwork. Local young people from Andover Young Carers, Breakout Youth and Yellow Brick Road will help design and paint it through workshops led by artist Kezia Hoffman. Test Valley Borough Council members Iris Andersen and Phil North said the project will give young people creative opportunities, help them develop skills and strengthen their connection to the community. Planning notices will be displayed at the site.

Test Valley has the second-highest rate in England and Wales of home-maintenance complaints flagged as potential scams, according to analysis by Leader Online. Of 380 Citizens Advice complaints recorded between 2022 and January 2026, 67 potentially involved rogue traders. Officials stress that the figures represent suspected, not confirmed, fraud and may partly reflect Test Valley’s older population and active Citizens Advice service. Residents are advised to check traders, obtain written quotations, avoid large upfront payments and report concerns to Citizens Advice or Trading Standards.

The closure of Salisbury Road in Andover for Southern Water sewer improvement works has increased traffic and concerns about speeding along diversion routes through Foundry Road in Anna Valley and Upper Clatford. Councillors Susanne Hasselmann and David Drew said they were liaising with residents and parish representatives, acknowledged the disruption and parking-related congestion, and highlighted possible use of speed indicator devices. Southern Water said the closure is necessary for installing a new sewer and apologised for the impact; the current roadworks permit is due to end on August 5.

Outline plans for up to 40 homes at Hasley Meadows near Broughton face a holding objection from Hampshire County Council over inadequate traffic data, narrow roads, vehicle access, parking and weak walking and cycling provision. Natural England has also requested a full Habitats Regulations Assessment and robust mitigation because of potential nutrient and recreational impacts on protected New Forest habitats. The application is due to be decided by August 12.

A footpath surrounding St Mary’s Church and the steps connecting Marlborough Street to the church in Andover cemetery will close for five days, from August 10 to August 14, for essential emergency maintenance and safety works. The Parish of Andover will provide diversion signs and an alternative-route map, while residents with questions can contact facilities coordinator Kevin Faulkner.

Southern Water is sealing sections of the sewer network in Hurstbourne Tarrant to improve performance and reduce pollution risks. Work began in Ithorpe and is expected to continue toward St Mary Bourne through the summer and into autumn. Roads between Dines Close and The Square will close on July 31 and from August 3 to 6, with signed diversions and temporary traffic management in place. Residents are advised to contact Southern Water about access, deliveries or public transport concerns.

Test Valley Borough Council rejected, by 22 votes to 15, a motion urging Hampshire County Council to abandon its planned judicial review of the Government’s local government reorganisation programme. Supporters argued that spending up to £500,000 on litigation was poor value when councils faced pressures such as unrepaired potholes, while opponents said residents affected by the proposed boundary changes remained deeply unhappy and Hampshire County Council should be free to challenge the decision. The reorganisation would place parts of Test Valley, including Chilworth, Nursling & Rownhams and Valley Park, in a new South West Hampshire authority.

A five-day water leak on Roman Road in Longstock sent treated drinking water toward the environmentally sensitive River Test, damaged the road and continued during water shortages and a hosepipe ban. Residents and councillors accused Southern Water of a slow emergency response, poor infrastructure planning and chronic underinvestment. Southern Water said it repaired the initial leak but could not complete the subsequent repair until earlier road works were reinstated and access to a cul-de-sac was preserved. MP Caroline Nokes and local councillors pressed the company to act urgently.

Andover resident Mick Drodge says litter and fly-tipping around Launcelot Close have persisted for more than three weeks, creating hazards from broken glass and other waste. Test Valley Borough Council says the area receives weekly inspections and litter picking because of consistently high levels of incidents, though rubbish can accumulate between visits. The council urged residents to use household or public bins and said reported fly-tipping is investigated, with enforcement action taken when evidence identifies those responsible.

Test Valley Borough Council says it is in the final stages of discussions with Hampshire Cultural Trust to support the future of Andover Museum. Council leader Phil North welcomed Hampshire County Council’s decision to slow planned funding cuts but criticized local councillors for launching a petition while negotiations were ongoing. Campaigners remain concerned that the move provides only short-term reassurance, and proposals for longer-term support are expected in the coming weeks.

Amy Ingram will lead an open card-making workshop at The Cabin in Diamond Wood, Andover, on Wednesday, August 26, from 4 pm to 6 pm. Supported by Andover Trees United, the session will provide materials, guidance and a friendly environment for residents of all experience levels to create personalised handmade cards.

Austin Hawk Estate Agents in Andover has won the British Property Awards Gold Lettings Award for the fourth consecutive year. The awards use mystery shoppers and 25 customer-service criteria, with assessments conducted over an extended period and without entry fees. Director Dean Austin credited the lettings team’s sustained effort and commitment to clients, while the awards organizers said the result reflected consistently strong service. The agency provides sales and lettings services to homeowners, landlords and tenants in Andover and nearby villages.

A Downlands ward by-election for one vacant seat on Andover Town Council will be held on July 30, with polling open from 7am to 10pm. Independent candidate Thomas James and Liberal Democrat candidate Josie Msonthi are standing. Msonthi emphasizes her long experience in local government and community advocacy, while James focuses on practical improvements, community initiatives, transparency and resident involvement. Voting will take place at Picket Piece Village Hall and Picket Twenty Community Centre.

Nine lock-up garages at Wistaria Court in Andover sold for £33,000 in an online auction conducted by Clive Emson Auctioneers. The garages were described as suitable for letting or use by local residents. Other garage blocks at Turin Court and Fisher Close are also being offered freehold with vacant possession, while Clive Emson’s next online auction is scheduled to close on September 24.

Nominations for the 2026 Test Valley Business Awards remain open until Sunday, August 2, recognising businesses, entrepreneurs and young professionals across Andover, Romsey and surrounding areas. The free competition includes categories covering community involvement, innovation, corporate and rural business, new and small businesses, sustainability and young business leadership. Finalists will advance to the awards gala dinner on October 17, 2026, with support from several sponsors and Test Valley Borough Council.

Andover Community Engage raised £5,353 from 237 supporters, exceeding its emergency £5,000 target after warning that rising building costs and reduced funding could force it to close. The charity, which provides youth, food, clothing, baby-bank and community support services, faces annual building costs of up to £86,000, including rent of more than £7,000 a month. The appeal will help keep services operating through the summer while trustees seek a long-term financial solution. ACE also plans to launch accredited education and employability courses for young people in September and is continuing to seek donations and community support.

Test Valley Borough Council published a summary of planning applications received by its Northern Area Planning Office for the week ending 24 July 2026. The applications cover Andover and surrounding villages and include new dwellings, extensions, tree works, property alterations, a mural, parking changes, and the rebuilding of Mill House and a former mill building. Comments can be submitted to the council by post, email, or through its website.

Chapel Arts Studios has appointed Jane Caryn Thomas as an engagement intern and Will Woods as a curator intern through Winchester School of Art and the University of Southampton. The placements will give the emerging arts practitioners hands-on experience supporting exhibitions, public events and community projects in Andover. The studio says the programme will bring fresh perspectives to its work while strengthening ties with higher education and expanding interns' professional networks.

Rooksbury Mill Local Nature Reserve in Andover, Valley Park Woodlands Local Nature Reserve and Romsey’s War Memorial Park have retained Green Flag status for another year. The international award recognizes well-managed, welcoming green spaces and the work of Test Valley Borough Council teams and volunteers in protecting habitats, supporting biodiversity and maintaining public amenities. Council members said the recognition reflects the borough’s long-term environmental commitment and the parks’ benefits for residents’ wellbeing. The council manages more than 400 hectares of green space across Test Valley.

Almost 300 athletes competed in the Andover Triathlon at Farleigh School in 29-degree heat. The event included sprint, classic, relay, youth, and children’s races, with cooling facilities provided for participants. Bloom & Body added complimentary post-race massages and a follow-up discount. Race director Nick Grace praised the volunteers and marshals, while members of Andover Triathlon Club supported the event by working as marshals.

A four-bedroom detached home in Andover is listed for £525,000, featuring 1,533 square feet of living space with a modern kitchen, open-plan layout, bay-windowed living room and en-suite principal bedroom. The property includes front and rear gardens, a driveway for three vehicles and an integral garage. Located near schools, amenities and outdoor recreational areas, it offers practical family accommodation in a desirable neighbourhood.

Residents in Andover have raised concerns that some Ministry of Defence households are using hosepipes and sprinklers despite a Southern Water hosepipe ban imposed due to high demand and dry weather. Locals expressed frustration over perceived non-compliance, calling it unacceptable during a critical water conservation period. The Ministry of Defence said it has reminded service families nationwide to follow local restrictions, sharing guidance through Armed Forces networks to ensure awareness across military communities.

High Score Arcades announced a six‑week programme of summer gaming events across its UK venues, including weekly challenges, discounted sessions, character meet‑and‑greets, and sensory‑friendly quiet hours. The schedule features Monday session upgrades, staff and pro‑score gaming challenges, and Sunday SEN Quiet Hours to support visitors with sensory needs. Character appearances by Mario and Luigi will take place at several locations through late July and August, with online booking recommended.

A detached home in Cricklade Place, Andover, has been listed for £465,000, offering around 1,257 square feet of modern accommodation. The property includes a converted garage, open-plan living areas, a well‑equipped kitchen, three double bedrooms with an en‑suite in the principal room, and a landscaped, low‑maintenance garden. Austin Hawk Estate Agents highlight its presentation, location, and access to amenities and transport links as key selling points, with parking for two vehicles and additional utility space completing the features.

Plans have been submitted for a substantial new earth bund along the eastern side of Thruxton Aerodrome to reduce noise and visual impact on nearby village homes. The proposal covers nearly eight hectares and aims to improve acoustic screening, preserve existing hedging and trees, and enhance biodiversity through meadow planting. The bund would extend and heighten existing earthworks around the racetrack, rising between five and eleven meters depending on terrain. The statement supporting the application describes the project as proportionate and beneficial, offering both visual and environmental improvements while providing a buffer between the airfield and Thruxton village. The planning application has been lodged with Test Valley Borough Council and awaits public comment ahead of a September determination deadline.

A detached four‑bedroom home on Beech Close in Thruxton is listed for £475,000 by Austin Hawk Estate Agents. The property features a combined living and dining room with an open fireplace, a conservatory with garden access, a kitchen with integrated appliances, a utility room, multiple flexible ground‑floor spaces, and two first‑floor bathrooms. The mature rear garden includes a patio, lawn, and shrubs, while the front offers a driveway and garage. Viewing details are provided by the estate agent.

Visitors to Anton Lake in Andover have recently observed a wide range of wildlife, including little grebes, mallard families, butterflies, damselflies and dragonflies. Local resident Brian Cartwright shared the sightings and encouraged people to visit the area, which is popular with walkers and nature enthusiasts.

Fundraising by former Test Valley Mayor Gordon Bailey and former Mayoress Karen Hamilton resulted in donations to four local charities supporting dementia care, mitochondrial disease, community services and food assistance. Their mayoral year focused on championing groups improving the lives of residents, with both expressing gratitude for community support that made the contributions possible.

A home-based childcare nursery in Andover, Copper Box Cubs Tiney Home Nursery, has launched with the help of a £750 business incentive grant from Test Valley Borough Council. Owner Marie Dyer plans to use the funding to enhance outdoor facilities, improve sleep areas in line with updated guidelines, and support marketing efforts. Drawing on her education background, she provides personalised, home‑based childcare and is registered to care for up to five children. The nursery operates in partnership with Tiney.co and is approved by Hampshire County Council. Local officials emphasise the value of supporting small childcare providers through business grants aimed at strengthening the local economy.

Patch’s Dog Home Day Care in Andover has been named Dog Home Day Care of the Year for South West England and shortlisted for the UK 2026 Small Business Awards. Run by Sarah and Mike O’Connor, the business is praised for its personalised care, strong local reputation, and long‑term relationships with dogs and their owners. Sarah highlights her lifelong passion for animals and the rewarding nature of watching dogs grow from puppies, while the couple express pride in the recognition and joy in running the business together.

A visit to Black Chalk Vineyard and Featherstone Flowers offers a mix of wine‑tasting, food, and hands‑on wildflower picking in the Test Valley. A guided tour explains the winemaking process before a lunch featuring Black Chalk wines and local food. The afternoon includes creating a personalised bouquet at Featherstone Flowers, followed by an evening meal back at the vineyard. The experience combines local produce, scenic surroundings and relaxed activities for an enjoyable day out.

New data from Environet identifies Andover as one of Hampshire’s top Japanese knotweed hotspots, with 20 verified sightings reported. Hampshire recorded 652 cases overall, with Southampton leading the county. The invasive plant’s rapid spread can damage structures and hinder property transactions, typically reducing home values by about 5 percent. Environet’s director urges homeowners to watch for signs and act quickly, as early intervention lowers treatment costs and limits spread.