Big welcome for plans to regenerate Northampton town

A big welcome for plans to regenerate Northampton town centre came at a community consultation held by Labour this week. And there was a call for more ambition in the proposals.

At the community consultation residents from across the town centre welcomed:

• Plans to make the River Nene a key part of Northampton's regeneration.

• Better transport links into and around town and more cycle routes - including family-friendly routes along the riverside.

• Celebration of Northampton's culture and history - with a call also for recognition for the diverse cultures that shape our town.

And they also said that the plans being developed by Northampton Forward should:

• Make sure that all communities benefit: at present there are big gaps between the focus areas outlined for regeneration.

• Include a study of the best mix of housing and commercial development in the town centre - and the best kind of housing.

• Ensure accessibility for everyone - around town, in public buildings and at the station.

• Fully involve residents.

The meeting, held at the Northampton Mosque and Islamic Centre, was hosted by West Northants Castle Ward Cllrs Enam Haque and Muna Cali and town council Cllr Gary Campbell. It discussed the proposals for the Northampton town centre masterplan being developed by Northampton Forward which is working under the WNC umbrella.

Feedback from the meeting will go to WNC and Northampton Forward, and a further meeting will be held in the autumn. If you want to respond to the proposals, you can do so through the Northampton Forward website here. The consultation closes on 10 August.