Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust has achieved a major milestone in its efforts to restore and repurpose the 19th-century stables at Delapré Abbey. The project, called A Stable Future, will transform the historic stables into a community wellbeing hub with spaces for retail and events. With a large portion of the funding secured, the Trust is now inviting businesses, suppliers, and local partners to support this project.
Thanks to National Lottery players, the Trust has received £3,096,798 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, which will support the comprehensive restoration and repurposing of the stables, ensuring they become a dynamic space for the community.
Additional support has come from the Architectural Heritage Fund, the Constance Travis Charitable Trust, the Eric Stanton Trust, and the Finnis Scott Foundation. These contributions are instrumental in advancing the project and ensuring its successful completion.
Richard Clinton, Chief Executive, said: “This is an exciting step forward for Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust. The funding we’ve received brings us closer to realising our vision for the stables as a community-focused space. We now look forward to working with businesses, suppliers, and partners to bring this project to life and deliver lasting benefits for the community.”
The Trust is now calling on businesses to get involved. There are numerous opportunities for companies to show their support, from sponsoring elements of the development to providing materials and services. By contributing to A Stable Future, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to community development and heritage preservation.
The Trust will be launching several initiatives in spring 2025 to encourage members of the public and business community to support the project. The Trust is looking to raise £50,000 through its community fundraising efforts to support the restoration of the stables. Businesses can sponsor elements of the project, including external seating, community kitchens, and courtyard planters. These sponsorships provide a unique way for businesses to be part of this historic transformation.
Improved accessibility is a key component of the project. The inclusion of a Changing Places facility and new level-access public spaces will ensure that the stables are accessible to all members of the community. These enhancements will make Delapré Abbey a more inclusive and welcoming space for everyone.
The project will also incorporate sustainable technologies to ensure environmental responsibility. These include ground source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting systems, which will help reduce the environmental impact of the stables and promote sustainability within the community.
The project is progressing at pace, with several key milestones already achieved. The planning application was approved in August 2024, and the Trust secured the £3,096,798 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund in November 2024. Enabling works are expected to start in January 2025, followed by the full restoration works once all funding is secured in spring 2025. The project is scheduled for completion and public opening in spring 2026.
Once completed, the development will bring approximately 7,000 square feet of floor space back into use, creating 42 full-time equivalent jobs and generating an estimated £1.57 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) for the local economy. The stables, along with Delapré Abbey, are leased to Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust from West Northamptonshire Council on a long-term basis. The Trust was set up to preserve and promote the Abbey and support its local communities. The stables project is a crucial element in the Trust’s 15-year master plan, which seeks to improve access, engagement, and the long-term sustainability of the site.
A Stable Future is not just about preserving a piece of history; it is about creating a space that serves the community. The restored stables will provide a welcoming environment for local residents and visitors, promoting mental and physical wellbeing through various programmes and services. The project will also support the local economy by creating jobs and attracting visitors to the area.
The project represents a significant investment in the heritage and community of Northampton. With the support of key funders, Buttress Architects, Tricolor, and recently appointed principal con- tractor Briggs & Forrester, Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust is well on its way to transforming the 19th-century stables into a vibrant community hub. Known for their expertise in building services engineering, Briggs & Forrester will oversee the physical restoration and development of the stables. This project will not only preserve an important piece of history but also create a space that enhances the wellbeing and quality of life for local residents.
Tim Cunningham, Managing Director at Briggs & Forrester Special Projects, said: “We are honoured to be part of this trans- formative project. Our team is dedicated to preserving the historical integrity of the stables while incorporating modern, sustainable technologies. We look forward to working closely with the Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust to create a space that will benefit the community for generations to come.”
The Trust looks forward to working with the community and its partners to make this vision a reality.
For more information on how to get involved or to offer support, contact Amanda Nicols-Polinska, Head of Commercial Projects and Operations, at amanda.nicols-polinska@delapreabbey.org or visit their website.
