AROS were commissioned by AVDC to undertake concept design and budget planning for the redevelopment of a prominent town centre site overlooking the Grand Union canal basin. The brief called for a mixed use scheme to include AVDC offices together with public domain to link the new Theatre with canal tow path routes into the town centre and outlying business areas. The scheme proposed a plinth containing car parking which is further eroded at street level for retail provision, ramps and stairs up to a public square at podium level. The massing is limited to a maximum of four storeys: in keeping with neighbouring buildings' bulk and respecting the new Theatre's prominence. The area benefits from the creation of public domain, providing much needed restaurant and bars for Theatre traffic and office workers in the area, whilst creating a democratic architectural statement.