The public consultation on the draft Northampton Town Centre Masterplan has officially closed with hundreds of residents, businesses and community groups taking time to shape the vision for Northampton.
Feedback from over 2,000 people will help shape the blueprint for the future of the town, marking a 250% increase in engagement compared to the previous masterplan consultation in 2019.
This surge in participation reflects a growing momentum behind Northampton’s regeneration. With 84% of respondents new to the conversation, the town has welcomed a wave of fresh ideas and perspectives. Feedback poured in from across West Northamptonshire, covering more than 1,200 postcodes from NN1 to NN18, and spanning all age groups, from under 18s to over 75s.
The consultation was supported by a dynamic programme of engagement, including six fully booked virtual sessions and a bustling drop-in event at the Grosvenor Centre, attended by over 200 people. More than 540 individuals signed up for updates, signalling strong public interest in shaping the town’s future.
Key themes emerged from the feedback:
- A call for a richer mix of retail and hospitality
- A desire for cleaner, safer and more accessible public spaces
- Enthusiasm for community events, cultural venues and
- inclusive spaces
- Support for preserving Northampton’s historic character
- A push for better transport and connectivity
Areas such as Greyfriars, Horse Market, and the Nene Riverside were highlighted for improvement, while pride in Northampton’s shoe-making heritage and vibrant arts and sports culture shone through.
This masterplan builds on the regeneration already under way, from the transformation of Market Square to the redevelopment of key heritage sites – creating a cohesive vision for a thriving, modern town centre.
West Northamptonshire Council will now collate and analyse all feedback. Findings will be presented at a council meeting in the coming months, paving the way for site-specific schemes that will bring Northampton’s bold new vision to life.
Find out more at www.westnorthants.gov.uk
