As The Lexicon moves towards its seventh anniversary, researchers from the Henley Business School, University of Reading, are inviting residents to give their views on the changes to the town centre.
Working with Bracknell Forest Council, The Lexicon, and the Royal Berkshire Archives, academics Dr Emma Street and Victor Nicholls are researching the impact of The Lexicon on residents’ perceptions of the town centre.
They want to find out how it has made a difference and what residents' think about Bracknell.
This research follows earlier studies that looked at the development of The Lexicon from the perspective of those involved in planning and delivering the scheme. The focus now is on the views of people who live in the borough.
Emma and Victor have been researching Bracknell and its regeneration since 2015. They have contributed to the work of the All Party Parliamentary Group on new towns as well as presented their findings to conferences in the UK and France.
Victor Nicholls, Lecturer in Development and Planning, University of Reading, said:
“Bracknell’s transformation has been substantial, and the regeneration plans aimed at creating a new social cultural heart for the town. We want to learn more about how the regeneration has changed perceptions of Bracknell from a resident’s point of view. With the government’s recent announcements about creating a new generation of new towns, our findings could provide valuable ideas to help make successful new places.”
Cllr Paul Bidwell, Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said:
“The regeneration of Bracknell town centre has been a key project to support continued economic growth and put us on the regional map as a retail and leisure destination of choice. It also provides residents with the cultural and social heart that they previously longed for. As The Lexicon approaches its seventh birthday, we’re keen to hear what residents think. The feedback will be useful in helping the council make long-term planning and regeneration decisions.”
Tom Woolven, Asset Manager for Bracknell Regeneration Partnership, said:
"Since opening in 2017, The Lexicon has become a much-loved shopping and leisure destination attracting visitors from across the Thames Valley and beyond. We are therefore delighted to be involved in the University of Reading’s project as we are keen to hear more from the local community about how the transformation of Bracknell town centre has changed their perception of the area, and we can make sure it continues to serve their needs.”
Mark Stevens, County Archivist, Royal Berkshire Archives, said:
“Bracknell has just celebrated its 75th year since being designated a new town after the Second World War. We’re happy to support this research, helping to provide a valuable record of the town as it changes and meets the challenges of the 21st Century."
The Perceptions of Bracknell's regenerated town centre survey will be available to complete online until 11 August.
