Berkeley (Oxford & Chiltern) recently welcomed local residents and businesses to a public exhibition at the Observatory Shopping Centre, where it unveiled its emerging vision for Slough Central and invited the community to share their thoughts on the town’s future.
Key members of the Berkeley team were on hand to answer questions, making the exhibition an engaging and interactive opportunity for people to explore the latest proposals and learn more about the next chapter in the regeneration of Slough town centre.
Highlights included:
Display panels which illustrate Berkeley’s vision for Slough Central – which will now remain a permanent fixture in the shopping centre.
Live graffiti art – Local mural artist Jho was invited to create a piece of live artwork that evolved throughout the day, inspired by the town and its people.
Wish Wall – Guests were invited to write their hopes, ideas and priorities for Slough’s future on post it notes, responding to four simple questions about what they’d love to see in the town, messages included:
- For Slough to become a rising star again!
- Finally the make-over Slough deserves!!
- Make it a place where families can come to eat together
- Make it safe for everyone
- Bring Slough to life with socialising options & night scene
Local resident, and mother of four, Sian Heatman, came to view the exhibition and shared her thoughts: "I'm hopeful that Berkeley will breathe fresh life into Slough. I grew up here and I want my children and generations to come to have the same freedom and experience life like I did - to be able to go out in town on their own and meet with friends in a safe and welcoming environment. Berkeley’s plans look exciting and have the potential to transform the town centre. Creating ample opportunities that promise a bright future for all.
“I’ve been to Horlicks Quarter, my late stepfather used to work in the old Horlicks factory, and I’ve seen how Berkeley has restored it to its former glory - keeping key elements like the chimney and the iconic lettering. He'd appreciate the fact those touches were made.
“I just hope they can mirror this in their plans for the town centre, honouring key elements from the past that make Slough iconic - and celebrate those important moments in history. It would be great to make Slough beautiful again, it has not looked very pleasing for a long time.”
Bob and his partner Saqib Khan are the proud owners of Fresh X, which was opened just eight weeks ago on the high street of Slough.
Bob explains why he opened the coffee shop: “As someone who was born and raised in Slough, I have witnessed the decline of our high street over the years. With this in mind, we decided to open Fresh X as a way to give back to the community and contribute to its revitalization.
“We chose our location on the high street to enhance the entrance to The Observatory, our main shopping centre. We've invested significantly to create a bright, welcoming coffee shop with a lovely outdoor seating area to attract more visitors. We believe that Fresh X plays a crucial role in the regeneration program for Slough, and we are committed to making a positive impact on the community.
“We were delighted that Berkeley chose Fresh X to supply coffee and branded doughnuts to the first 200 residents willing to share their comments on the 'WISH' Board at the public exhibition. This collaboration is a testament to our shared vision for Slough Central, and we are genuinely excited about the future prospects for our town.”
The exhibition is part of Berkeley’s ongoing commitment to working in partnership with the community to create a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable future for Slough Central.
Freddie Hill, Head of Development, Berkeley Oxford & Chiltern, concludes: “We have an exciting vision for Slough Central. This exhibition is all about starting conversations, celebrating the town’s history, and ensuring that the next phase of Slough’s regeneration reflects the town’s unique spirit and ambitions.
“It was encouraging to receive such positive feedback from local residents who visited the exhibition and added their thoughts to our Wish Wall. There’s a real sense of excitement about our long-term vision for the town centre.”