A UK market town is set to undergo a massive transformation after being given a £50 million boost.
West Northamptonshire Council is hoping to update Northampton Town Centre by improving accessibility, public spaces, and employment opportunities.
They are also aiming to build new schools and health facilities in the area, with the transformation as a whole to improve sporting and cultural heritage over the next 15 years.
According to the council, the new masterplan will build on existing projects, such as the Market Square revamp, Stack and Four Waterside, and identify other opportunities to deliver improved spaces.
More than £50 million of the funding has already been secured, according to the council, but another £500 million will be sought through private sector investment in years to come.
Conservative cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure, Dan Lister, said: “Northampton is undergoing a period of transformational change, and this masterplan will set out the next phase of regeneration projects.”
“Combining new investment with our existing schemes, the town is benefitting from improved public spaces and leisure facilities.
“As part of the public engagement, we want to hear from the people who know Northampton best—its residents and businesses—to ensure the projects meet the needs of the local community.”
Alex Whitbread, partner at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios who have been appointed as lead masterplanners, added: “Northampton is a town with a rich heritage, a vibrant community, and a unique identity.
“This transformative masterplan will authentically capture its essence, fostering civic pride and creating a distinctive, progressive future.
“We are delighted to be appointed as lead architects for the Northampton Town Centre Framework and look forward to unlocking its full potential, attracting visitors, businesses, and new residents to be part of its exciting evolution.”
A public consultation will start this summer, inviting residents to share feelings on the 400-hectare plan