As The Lexicon in Bracknell approaches its seventh anniversary, researchers from the Henley Business School at the University of Reading are reaching out to residents to gather their thoughts on the changes to the town center. Working in collaboration with Bracknell Forest Council, The Lexicon, and the Royal Berkshire Archives, academics Dr. Emma Street and Victor Nicholls are conducting a study on the impact of The Lexicon on residents‘ perceptions of the town center.
The research aims to understand how The Lexicon has made a difference in the community and what residents think about Bracknell as a whole. This study builds upon previous research that focused on the development of The Lexicon from the perspective of those involved in its planning and implementation. Now, the researchers are shifting their focus to gather insights from the residents of the borough.
Dr. Emma Street and Victor Nicholls have been studying Bracknell and its regeneration efforts since 2015. Their work has contributed to the All Party Parliamentary Group on new towns and has been presented at conferences in the UK and France. Victor Nicholls, a Lecturer in Development and Planning at the University of Reading, emphasized the significance of Bracknell’s transformation and the aim of creating a new social and cultural hub for the town. The researchers hope that their findings will offer valuable insights for the creation of successful new towns in the future.
Cllr Paul Bidwell, Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, highlighted the importance of the town center regeneration in supporting economic growth and positioning Bracknell as a retail and leisure destination. He emphasized the cultural and social significance of The Lexicon in fulfilling the community’s desires. As The Lexicon approaches its seventh year, the council is eager to hear residents‘ feedback to inform future planning and regeneration decisions.
Tom Woolven, Asset Manager for Bracknell Regeneration Partnership, expressed pride in The Lexicon’s success as a beloved shopping and leisure destination that attracts visitors from across the Thames Valley and beyond. The partnership is excited to participate in the University of Reading’s research project to gain insights from the local community on how the town center transformation has impacted their perception of the area.
Mark Stevens, County Archivist at the Royal Berkshire Archives, highlighted Bracknell’s 75th year since being designated a new town post-World War II. The archives are pleased to support the research project, as it provides a valuable record of the town’s evolution and adaptation to 21st-century challenges.
The Perceptions of Bracknell’s regenerated town center survey will be available online for residents to complete until August 11th. This initiative aims to gather valuable feedback from the community to shape the future development and growth of Bracknell. Residents are encouraged to participate and share their thoughts on how The Lexicon has influenced their perception of the town center.