Revolution Radio - Local News

January 06, 2026

Community groups invited to apply for funding to deliver Grow, Cook, Eat programme

06 January 2026 Voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations in West Northamptonshire are invited to apply for funding to deliver Grow, Cook, Eat, a programme that helps people learn how to grow food, cook healthy meals, and make better choices about nutrition, while supporting wellbeing and building stronger community connections. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has announced that £343,750 worth of funding is available over three years for a single collaborative bid to support the continuation of ‘Grow, Cook, eat’. The scheme aims to tackle food and health inequalities, while promoting healthier lifestyles and stronger communities. ‘Grow, Cook, Eat’ focuses on promoting healthy eating, by building the knowledge and skills people need to make healthier choices. The programme offers practical support to help residents learn how to eat well, cook simple meals, and grow their own food. It also helps improve mental wellbeing and brings communities together. Since its launch in 2022, the programme has support communities across the area and built a team to deliver opportunities for: Sharing healthy eating, cooking and growing skills within local communities Training and supporting residents to become food champions Fostering a network of food champions across West Northants Managing a small grant process to support local groups This new grant will enable the continuation of the established model and fund additional developments to further strengthen the programme. The Grow, Cook, Eat programme is a fantastic example of how we bring communities together to improve health and wellbeing in families. By empowering people to make and share healthier choices, we tackle food inequalities while building stronger, more connected communities and families. We’re excited to see local groups come forward with collaborative ideas to help this programme grow even further. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health at WNC All applications must be submitted by 17 February 2026. To request an application form and guidance, please email: [email protected] . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

January 06, 2026

Nominate an inspirational woman for the 2026 awards

06 January 2026 West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Women’s Forum is proud to announce the return of the Inspirational Women Awards, now in their 14th year. These awards shine a spotlight on the extraordinary women who are driving progress, sparking change, and making a lasting impact in workplaces and communities across the region. Nominations are now open and close on Sunday 8 February 2026, inviting the public to nominate the women who inspire them every day. All nominees must be working or living in West Northamptonshire. Award categories Business Award: Recognising women who inspire through their professional achievements, business ownership, or career mentorship. Community Award: Celebrating individuals who uplift their communities - whether it’s a family member providing unwavering support, a neighbour leading local initiatives, a passionate campaigner, or a tireless fundraiser. Community Special Recognition Award: this category highlights exceptional contributions to community development. The shortlist will be announced week commencing 16 February 2026 and an awards ceremony will be hosted at the Guildhall in Northampton on Saturday 7 March 2026 to celebrate International Women’s Day taking place the following day (8 March 2026). This year’s theme is “Give to Gain”, and champions generosity and collaboration. It reminds us that when individuals, organisations and communities give, whether through time, knowledge, advocacy, or resources the impact increases. Last year’s winners Lisa Bryan (special recognition award), Jane Arnold (business award) and Heather Thorburn (community award) set an inspiring benchmark, showcasing the depth of talent and dedication across West Northamptonshire. “These awards highlight the remarkable women who work tirelessly to uplift others and make a meaningful difference in their communities. I warmly encourage residents to put forward the inspirational women in their lives so we can recognise and celebrate the impact they make every day.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at West Northamptonshire Council Celebrate the inspiring women in your life by submitting your nomination before Sunday, 9 February 2026. Together, let’s shine a spotlight on their achievements and continue building a community where every woman feels empowered and valued. Celebrate the inspiring women in your life by submitting your nomination before Sunday, 9 February 2026. Together, let’s shine a spotlight on their achievements and continue building a community where every woman feels empowered and valued. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

January 06, 2026

Proactive work tackles dangerous anti-social behaviour in Southfields, Northampton

06 January 2026 Local neighbourhood policing officers have been working in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council and Stagecoach to tackle anti-social behaviour in the Southfields area of Northampton. In recent months, a small minority of young people have been throwing rocks at local buses causing Stagecoach to temporarily suspend its services in the area. This has left local residents without access to this vital mode of transport, especially elderly people, unable to travel. As a result, local neighbourhood policing officers have identified the issue as an area priority and have been working alongside the council and Stagecoach to tackle it. Patrols have been taking place at key times and regular Beat Bus events have been organised to offer reassurance to the local community. The team has also been engaging with local schools to encourage them to speak to students about the damage this kind of behaviour has and how it can leave vulnerable people feeling isolated. Local PCSO, Rose Turner, has also been using the Northamptonshire Police messaging service - Northamptonshire Talking - to communicate with local residents, in support of the reestablished Residents’ Association. A lot of proactive work has been going on to tackle anti-social behaviour in Southfields and I would like to thank PCSO Turner for her hard work in this area. We have made in-roads in identifying some of the young people involved in this activity and I would ask them to please consider other people before engaging in this type of behaviour. Your behaviour might seem harmless, but as well as having a negative effect on local people, especially the elderly who see buses as lifelines, it could cause real, serious injury. Scott Farrant, Neighbourhood Policing Inspector This kind of behaviour isn’t harmless fun, it’s incredibly dangerous for drivers and passengers on these buses, and at very least causes damage and disruption. We’re committed to continue working with police colleagues in tackling this kind of anti-social activity and helping restore a regular and uninterrupted bus service to Southfields. Some members of the community rely on buses to get around, and they are the ones worst affected by this. Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport The safety of our customers and staff is our first priority. This is not harmless fun, it's dangerous and we will work with the police to make sure anybody caught through our onboard CCTV will be prosecuted. Objects thrown at buses can cause serious damage and can cause serious injury to our customers. We appreciate the work of PSCO Turner, Northamptonshire Police and West Northamptonshire Council in helping us to address this issue. We know customers have been inconvenienced by the need to temporarily withdraw services, but this has been unavoidable given the anti-social behaviour we have witnessed. We hope to be able to restore services without further incident in the near future. Mark Whitelocks, Managing Director for Stagecoach Midlands To find out more about what’s happening in your local area, sign up to the free messaging service at Northamptonshire Talking website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

January 06, 2026

Your Money, Your Say: Don’t miss the Budget Question Time event on 13 January

06 January 2026 Residents, businesses and community groups are being reminded to take part in the first-ever Budget Question Time, a new online event giving people the chance to understand, explore and discuss the Council’s draft budget proposals for 2026/27. The session is designed to open up the budget conversation and give residents a clearer picture of how decisions are made, the challenges the Council faces, and the choices that lie ahead. It also creates space for people to ask questions, share views, and raise the issues that matter most to them and their communities. Your Money, Your Say: Budget Question Time will take place on Tuesday 13 January 2026, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, and will be held online via Microsoft Teams. During the event, participants will hear directly from the Leader of the Council, Cabinet Members and senior officers. They will be able to learn more about the financial pressures facing local government, the thinking behind the draft proposals, and how the Council is working to protect services while planning for the future. There will also be opportunities to ask questions and take part in an open, transparent discussion. Residents can get involved in a way that suits them. Questions can be asked live during the session using Microsoft Teams or sent in advance by emailing [email protected] . This is the first time we’re hosting a Budget Question Time like this, and we’re really keen for people to be part of it. We know council budgets can feel complicated and distant, so this is about opening the door, explaining the choices we’re facing, and listening to what matters most to our communities. It’s a chance for an open, respectful conversation, and we’d really encourage people to get involved. Councillor John Slope, Cabinet Member for Finance Anyone interested in taking part can find joining details on Council’s website. Residents can have their say on the budget proposals by completing the survey on our Consultation Hub . The survey can be accessed online for free at Council managed libraries across West Northants, or you can request a copy in another format by emailing [email protected] or phoning 0300 126 7000 . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

January 05, 2026

Burning at home or being affected by burning nearby? We want to hear from you!

05 January 2026 Residents across West Northants who burn solid fuels or feel the effects of neighbours' burning are invited to take part in a survey exploring the impact of domestic burning on air quality and health, as part of a two-year DEFRA-funded research project. The survey builds on last winter’s findings, which revealed that while solid fuel burning is common across West Northants, there is limited local awareness of the health risks associated with Particulate Matter (PM), the tiny airborne particles released when fuel is burnt. More than 750 residents took part in the first phase, helping the Council better understand local burning habits, fuel types, and the range of burners used. The new survey will help assess how awareness has changed and gather further insights into how and why people burn solid fuels at home. Solid fuel can include coffee logs, wood, briquettes and coal, and while for some residents it’s a lifestyle choice, for others it remains an essential way to heat and cook. With growing popularity and potential links to respiratory diseases, such as COPD and asthma, and cardiovascular problems, such as heart attack and stroke, the Council is working to understand how domestic burning may affect vulnerable adults and children, as well as the wider community. The project also aims to improve public awareness of the health and environmental risks associated with solid fuel burning, support behaviour change, and contribute to national targets to reduce PM levels. Indoor and outdoor monitors are being used across West Northants to track PM levels and support the research. We know that people use solid fuel burners for a range of reasons, including their location and access to sources of heat and for financial reasons. But we also know that locally there just isn’t enough information on this and more research is needed to help us understand their potential impacts on health and air quality. This survey isn’t about telling people what they should and shouldn’t be doing to heat their homes, it’s about finding out first-hand from residents about their current use of solid fuels and how these fits in with their wider lifestyles. That insight will help us support people to make more informed decisions and reduce the risks for our most vulnerable communities. Cllr Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate and Regulatory Services The survey closes on Saturday 31 January 2026. For more information, please visit our Burning Question pages . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

January 06, 2026

Free winter support roadshows coming to West Northamptonshire

06 January 2026 Residents across West Northamptonshire are invited to attend a series of free winter support roadshows designed to provide practical advice and guidance during the colder months. These events will bring together a range of local organisations under one roof, offering tailored support and expert advice to help people stay warm, well, and financially secure this winter. Visitors will be able to access energy-saving tips to reduce household bills, budgeting advice to make money go further, wellbeing resources for physical and mental health, and information about grants and local support schemes. There will also be drop-in sessions with experts who can provide personalised guidance to meet individual needs. Upcoming roadshows: Towcester Family Hub – Thursday 22 January 2026, 2pm to 4pm Focus: General advice for families Address: The Forum, Moat Lane, Towcester, NN12 6AD Brackley Saints (Football Club) – Wednesday 11 February 2026, 10am to midday Focus: Support for older people Address: St James Park, Churchill Way, Brackley, NN13 7EJ The Spring Charity, Northampton – Friday 20 February 2026, 10am to midday Focus: Support for families with pre-school children Address: Annex Community Centre, Spring Lane, Northampton, NN1 2JW Winter can be tough for many households, and no one should feel they have to cope alone. These roadshows are a fantastic opportunity to get practical advice and support all in one place, whether it’s help with energy costs, budgeting, or your own health and wellbeing. Please come along, and just as importantly, help us spread the word. Share these details with friends, family, and neighbours so that everyone who needs support knows where to find it. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council Please share details of these events with friends, family, and neighbours, especially anyone who might benefit from extra support this winter. Find out more about support available . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

January 04, 2026

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service called to multiple firework-related fires on New Years Eve

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service was kept busy on New Years Eve and into New Years Day attending 12 fires started by fireworks that caused damage to homes and property across the county. The fires, one before midnight and 11 after, had either been ignited by carelessly disposing of fireworks and packaging, or, more alarmingly, had been started deliberately. One incident on Landimore Road, in Northampton, saw crews from Moulton called to a property at 12.42am, where disposed of fireworks caused fire damage to bins, fencing and a car. The fire was put out by firefighters using a hose-reel jet. The evening also saw fireworks boxes set on fire and left in parks on Mill Road, in Kettering, and Briar Hill Playing Fields, in Northampton, which could have caused serious harm to members of the public. Neil Sadler, Area Manager for Operational Support said: “These fires have potentially taken resources and crews away from other incidents and people that needed our help. They have also caused considerable damage to homes and property that ultimately could have been avoided. “Fireworks are live explosives that can cause serious harm and damage when used incorrectly, and it is concerning that we have seen incidents where people have set fire to them in a dangerous manner deliberately. “While we want people to have fun, we really want to urge members of the public, that if they are going to have their own fireworks display, to please follow the manufacturer’s instructions and to dispose of them carefully and responsibly.”

January 01, 2026

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service urges firework safety ahead of New Year’s Eve

As Northamptonshire prepares to welcome in the New Year, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding residents to celebrate responsibly and keep safety at the forefront of their festivities. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending an organised display, where professionals manage the risks. However, if you choose to hold your own celebration at home, it’s vital to take precautions to protect yourself, your family, and your property. Before lighting any fireworks, read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully in advance, using daylight or torchlight rather than a naked flame. When lighting them, always do so at arm’s length with a safety lighter or fuse wick, then stand back. Never return to a firework once it has been lit and never throw fireworks or carry them in your pocket. Choose a safe location in your garden away from fences, sheds, hedges, and any other combustible materials. Make sure the area is clear and stable before setting off fireworks. After your display, take care when clearing up. Wear strong gloves and use tongs to collect used fireworks and sparklers, then follow these steps: SOAK IT – soak them in water overnight to ensure there is no chance of them setting anything alight. BAG IT – collect all the used fireworks in a bag. BIN IT – put them in the rubbish bin (not the recycling bin). Never put anything hot in your bin, such as fireworks, sparklers, bonfire or BBQ ashes, or disposable BBQs. Sparklers may seem harmless, but they burn at temperatures of around 1,000°C. Always wear gloves—preferably leather—and supervise children closely. Sparklers should never be given to children under five, and they should be held at arm’s length, away from others. Once finished, place them in a bucket of water or sand. It’s also important to be prepared for emergencies. Keep a bucket of water, a garden hose, or a fire extinguisher nearby, and never drink alcohol if you are responsible for lighting fireworks. Darren Carson, Prevention Team Leader at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We want people to enjoy their New Year’s celebrations, and although fireworks can seem like harmless fun, they are live explosives and can cause serious injury or damage if not handled correctly. “We urge people to always buy fireworks from reputable sellers and to follow the instructions carefully.” For full guidance, please read The Firework Code at: https://www.britishfireworksassociation.co.uk/firework-advice-for-consumers/ . “Celebrate safely and make sure your New Year begins with joy, not a trip to A&E,” added Darren. For more safety advice, visit: https://www.northantsfire.gov.uk

December 30, 2025

Fresh draft of West Northamptonshire Local Plan published ahead of consultation in the new year

30 December 2025 West Northamptonshire Council has today (30 December) published the latest draft of its Local Plan, ahead of councillors considering proposals for public consultation at the Planning Policy Committee meeting on 8 January. The Local Plan is a key document shaping the future of development across West Northamptonshire up to 2043. It sets out how land will be used for housing, employment, green spaces, and infrastructure, while supporting regeneration and protecting the environment. This updated draft reflects significant changes since the last consultation, including new policies on sustainability, health and wellbeing, and placemaking, alongside proposals for growth in towns and rural areas. The Plan also includes: A refreshed spatial strategy supporting regeneration and brownfield development alongside support for our rural areas Policies to help achieve net zero and improve health outcomes. Enhanced protection for valued green spaces and opportunities for communities to nominate more. Updated guidance on housing mix, affordable homes, and employment land. Following committee consideration, the draft plan and intention to launch a public consultation will be discussed at full Council on 19 January. A major public engagement will then launch in late January, giving residents, town and parish councils, businesses, and community groups the chance to have their say. This will run for eight weeks and include opportunities to comment on the draft plan and propose new sites, including those for Gypsy and Traveller accommodation and further Local Green Spaces. This Local Plan is one of the most important documents we produce, setting out how we balance homes, jobs, and infrastructure while protecting our environment and creating thriving places for future generations. The views of residents, parishes, and businesses will be vital in shaping the final plan, and I strongly encourage everyone to get involved when the consultation opens in February. Cllr Thomas Manning, Cabinet Member for Planning at West Northamptonshire Council See the agenda for the Planning Policy Committee meeting on 8 January . Further details on how to take part will be shared in the new year. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 23, 2025

Sheep Street reopens following damaged building’s demolition

23 December 2025 Sheep Street in Northampton has now been reopened following the safe demolition and clearance of the fire-damaged building that forced its closure in March this year. The Grade II listed former Ex-Servicemen’s Club - owned by a charitable trust - was severely damaged by fire earlier this year, leaving the structure unstable and posing significant safety risks. Since then, the Council has worked closely with the owners, contractors and utility providers to complete complex clearance works, including asbestos removal, utility disconnections, and debris clearance. Costs for the work are being managed through a legal charge against the site, enabling recovery when it is sold. Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We know how frustrating this closure has been for residents, businesses, and visitors, and we share that frustration. “Safety had to come first, and the challenges of dealing with a listed building damaged by fire were considerable. “Our teams worked tirelessly to overcome these obstacles, and I’m pleased to say that the road has now been reopened. “We know this has caused significant disruption for some and we thank everyone for their patience and understanding." Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 23, 2025

Your money, your say: we want your views on 2026/27 budget proposals

23 December 2025 Residents, businesses and community groups across West Northamptonshire are among those encouraged to give their views on the Council’s draft budget proposals for 2026/27. Members of West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Cabinet met last night (Monday, 22 December) to discuss the authority’s most difficult budget to date, as it explores a range of tough options to tackle its significant financial challenges. From today the proposals are now open for feedback, with residents having until midnight on Tuesday, 3 February to give their views as part of a public consultation. After that, the Council will use their input from the consultation to finalise the budget, which will be presented to Cabinet members on 16 February before going to full Council for a final decision on 26 February 2026. People are urged to have their say on the budget proposals by completing the survey on our Consultation Hub . The survey can be accessed online for free at Council managed libraries across West Northants, or you can request a copy in another format by emailing [email protected] or phoning 0300 126 7000 . To help people learn more about the proposals and the challenges behind them, the Council will also be hosting an online Budget Question Time session on Tuesday 13 January from 6.30pm to 8:30pm. The virtual session is an opportunity to hear directly from the Leader, Cabinet Members, and senior officers, ask questions, and feed their views into the consultation. They can also submit questions to be answered at the session to [email protected] . WNC started its budgetary process this year with an anticipated shortfall of £50m for 2026/27 and embarked quickly on a review of its finances, identifying around £32m of efficiencies and income generation to close the gap. With the already-lean unitary authority having made £146m of savings since 2021, this latest round of budget-setting has been the most difficult so far. The Council is therefore proposing a range of measures for 2026-27 to help it set a balanced revenue budget for 2026/2027 of £1.01billion (£458.9m excluding the Dedicated Schools Grant). This includes increasing its part of the Council Tax by an average 4.99% in line with what the Government allows – the equivalent of an extra £93.16 per year or £1.79 a week for the average Band D household and generating additional funding of £17m for the Council. The draft budget also reviews the Council’s discretionary fees and charges (those not required by law) which includes increasing charges for some services not used by all residents, such as garden waste collection and car parking. Having inherited such huge financial challenges, we committed to leaving no stone unturned in our work to finding the savings and income we desperately need to set a balanced revenue budget in 2026-27 and know some of these options are far from palatable for everyone. We understand the concerns people have about some of the options we are exploring and it’s absolutely vital that they let us know so we can consider their views before finalising what options will be within the final budget. Councillor John Slope, Finance Cabinet Member at West Northamptonshire Council The draft budget also proposes that the authority invests £143 million as part of its capital programme spanning 2026/27 to 2030/31, designed to deliver long term benefits for residents and businesses. This long-term investment aims to strengthen local infrastructure, support safer and more vibrant communities, and prepare West Northamptonshire for future growth. The proposals also include £78.6 million investment through the HRA (Housing Revenue Account) capital programme, supporting new build housing, estate improvements, heating upgrades and disabled adaptations. By 2031, the Council will have delivered £359.6 million in housing investment, ensuring sustained improvements Cabinet will consider the final budget for 2026/27 on Monday, 16 February 2026 for recommendation to the full Council meeting on Thursday, 26 February 2026; subject to any changes made following consideration of the consultation feedback, the Local Government financial settlement and the latest financial position. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 23, 2025

Residents invited to first-ever Budget Question Time to help shape 2026/27 plans

23 December 2025 Residents, businesses and community groups are invited to take part in the first-ever Budget Question Time, a new online event giving people the chance to understand, explore and discuss the Council’s draft budget proposals for 2026/27. The session is designed to open up the budget conversation and give residents a clearer picture of how decisions are made, the challenges the Council faces, and the choices that lie ahead. It also creates space for people to ask questions, share views, and raise the issues that matter most to them and their communities. Your Money, Your Say: Budget Question Time will take place on Tuesday 13 January 2026, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, and will be held online via Microsoft Teams. During the event, participants will hear directly from the Leader of the Council, Cabinet Members and senior officers. They will be able to learn more about the financial pressures facing local government, the thinking behind the draft proposals, and how the Council is working to protect services while planning for the future. There will also be opportunities to ask questions and take part in an open, transparent discussion. Residents can get involved in a way that suits them. Questions can be asked live during the session using Microsoft Teams or sent in advance by emailing [email protected] . This is the first time we’re hosting a Budget Question Time like this, and we’re really keen for people to be part of it. We know council budgets can feel complicated and distant, so this is about opening the door, explaining the choices we’re facing, and listening to what matters most to our communities. It’s a chance for an open, respectful conversation, and we’d really encourage people to get involved. Councillor John Slope, Cabinet Member for Finance Anyone interested in taking part can find joining details on Council’s website. Residents can have their say on the budget proposals by completing the survey on our Consultation Hub . The survey can be accessed online for free at Council managed libraries across West Northants, or you can request a copy in another format by emailing [email protected] or phoning 0300 126 7000 . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 22, 2025

Accessing mental health support this Christmas

22 December 2025 As the festive season approaches, West Northamptonshire Council is reminding residents that mental health support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including throughout Christmas and the New Year. While the festive period can be a joyful time for many, it can also intensify feelings of loneliness, anxiety, grief, or emotional distress. No one should feel they have to cope alone, and support is always available. Immediate and urgent mental health support If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis, help can be accessed quickly through the following services: Call 111 and select the mental health option for urgent advice and support at any time. Adults in Northamptonshire can call 0800 448 0828 or text 07480 635 531 for urgent mental health support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you need someone to talk to Not everyone will be in crisis, but feelings of loneliness or the need for low-level support are just as important. Samaritans – Call 116 123 for free, confidential emotional support, 24 hours a day. Samaritans are a listening service, offering someone to talk to when you need it most. In person support Support for children, young people, and families Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services (CYPMHS) Crisis Team – Call 0800 170 7055 for 24-hour support for children and young people experiencing a mental health crisis. Northamptonshire Drop-Ins (formerly Espresso Yourself Cafes) – Safe spaces for young people aged 8–25 to talk, connect, and access support. These drop-ins are run by Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. See drop-in details . In an emergency If there is immediate danger or a risk to life, residents should always call 999. The winter season can be especially difficult and may worsen feelings of isolation, anxiety or distress. It’s vital that everyone in West Northamptonshire knows they are not alone and that help is available at any hour. If you’re struggling, please reach out, there is no shame in seeking support. These services are here to protect wellbeing and save lives. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council Residents can find further information and guidance by visiting our mental health and wellbeing support webpage. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 20, 2025

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service warns of rising chimney fires as temperatures drop

With Christmas just around the corner and temperatures falling, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to take extra care when using chimneys and wood-burning stoves, such as log burners. Over the past week, crews have attended two chimney fires due to build-up of debris in the chimney, a reminder of the risks posed by poorly maintained flues and the intense heat generated by these appliances. In the last 12 months, 35 chimney fires have been recorded, with the highest numbers occurring during the winter months of November and December. Prevention Team Leader, Tina Collett, said: “As families prepare for cosy nights in by the fire, it’s vital to remember that chimneys and log burners need regular maintenance. The heat from these appliances can reach extreme levels, and if soot or debris build up, it can ignite and cause a serious fire. “Always use a professional chimney sweep as they’ll inspect your chimney thoroughly and provide a certificate for peace of mind. Attempting to clean it yourself can leave hidden hazards behind.” Chimney and log burner fires can spread rapidly, causing devastating damage to homes and putting lives at risk. Warning signs of a chimney fire include a loud roaring noise from the chimney, sparks or flames visible from the chimney pot, and smoke or burning smells in adjoining rooms or loft spaces. Recommended sweeping frequency: Wood-burning stoves/log burners: four times a year Coal: twice a year Smokeless fuels, oils, or gas: at least once a year Top tips to stay safe: Use only dry, seasoned wood – never burn treated wood or accelerants. Store extra wood outside, away from the house. Keep your chimney and flue clean and well maintained. Ensure fires are fully extinguished before leaving the house or going to bed. Never block air vents or air bricks – airflow is essential. Keep flammable items well away from the stove and use a non-combustible hearth to protect the floor. Fit a carbon monoxide alarm near any fuel-burning appliance. If a chimney fire breaks out: Your first option should be to get out, stay out, and call 999 immediately. If safe to do so, close air vents and flue dampers to reduce oxygen supply. Move flammable materials away from the fireplace. For more winter safety advice, follow Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s social media channels or visit: www.northantsfire.gov.uk

December 18, 2025

Cabinet to consider toughest draft budget yet ahead of public consultation plans

18 December 2025 People’s views will be key to shaping West Northamptonshire Council’s most difficult budget to date, with the authority facing no choice than to explore tough options to tackle its significant financial challenges. The Council, which started its budget process with a £50m shortfall for 2026-27, is exploring various ways to bridge the severe funding gap whilst aiming to protect frontline services as much as possible for the most vulnerable including children, adults and those facing homelessness. Members of the Council’s Cabinet will meet on Monday, 22 December in the Forum, Towcester to discuss the 2026-27 draft budget report and papers, ahead of a six-week public consultation launching the following day (23 December) to seek people’s views on the proposals. Among the difficult options being explored is to increase the optional garden waste service fee by less than 40p a week, and to review and apply car parking charges fairly and consistently across Daventry, Towcester, Northampton and Brackley. None of the proposals currently put forward in the draft budget are currently agreed nor finalised and residents and businesses will be urged to have their say on them during the six-week public consultation due to launch later next week before Cabinet then re-considers the proposals and proposes a final set of budget proposals to Council in February. The Council is also working through the detail of its final funding settlement from the Government which could lead to a further review of the draft proposals. “Our Council is in an extremely challenging financial situation through four years of relentless savings and under funding, with two-thirds of our revenue budget going towards coping with the ever-increasing cost and demand for the services protecting our most vulnerable. To balance the books we simply have no other choice than to explore discretionary services, such as car parking and garden waste collections. We know exploring these won’t be popular but they are services where residents can make a choice if they want to pay for those services or not. The proposals in the draft budget do reflect consideration of what other councils charge as well as the usage of current car parks for example along with seeking to bring a degree of consistency across all of West Northamptonshire.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of the Council “Having inherited such huge financial challenges, we committed to leaving no stone unturned in our work to finding the savings and income we desperately need to set a balanced revenue budget in 2026-27 and know some of these options are far from palatable for everyone. We understand the concerns people have about some of the options we are exploring and it’s absolutely vital that they let us know so we can consider their views before finalising what options will be within the final budget.” Councillor John Slope, Finance Cabinet Member at WNC Following the Cabinet meeting, the six-week public consultation will launch on Tuesday 23 December and more details on how to take part will be available on the Council Budget 2026/27 pages The full timeline is as follows: 22 December: Cabinet considers draft budget proposals 23 December – 3 February: Public consultation period (subject to Cabinet approval) 16 February: Cabinet considers consultation feedback 26 February: Full Council makes final budget decision Watch the Cabinet meeting live from 6pm on Monday, 22 December on our Youtube channel Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 19, 2025

Council delivers adaptive bikes to boost inclusive cycling for SEND students

19 December 2025 Four of these bikes are mobility-assisted, ensuring that students with physical disabilities can take part in inclusive Bikeability training for the first time. Currently, The Bee Hive has not offered Bikeability training. This initiative bridges that gap by introducing both conventional and adaptive cycling instruction - providing access for students who may not own a bike or who require specialist equipment to ride safely. The benefits of introducing Bikeability include: Helping SEND students achieve accredited Level 2 Bikeability outcomes Offering practical transport skills to promote independence, confidence and physical wellbeing Supporting community access and social inclusion Mat Sentence, Deputy Headteacher at The Bee Hive, said: "Bikeability and cycle maintenance is something we’ve wanted to introduce at The Beehive for quite some time. "This initiative gives our students the chance to learn essential skills – not just basic cycle maintenance, but more importantly, road safety and how to ride responsibly in the community. "From the moment we mentioned this initiative, the response from our students has been incredible. So many have come forward, eager to take part. And we are excited to watch them grow more confident and safety-conscious when cycling in the community. "With the bikes and resources available to us, this is also a fantastic opportunity to open the programme up to other schools in the area. It’s our way of giving back and showing gratitude for the support we’ve received." This is the first step toward creating a local SEND Bikeability Training Centre at The Bee Hive who are committed to sharing equipment and training access with other SEND schools across West Northamptonshire, expanding the impact of this project far beyond its own cohort. Councillor Richard Butler, Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to our partners at Kier for getting this project off the ground, and it’s fantastic to hear that The Bee Hive will be able to use these new bikes to enhance the lives of the young people under their care.” Allan Rigby, General Manager at Kier Transportation, added: “Safety and accessibility are at the heart of everything we do. We were proud to play a key role in getting this initiative off the ground by securing the funding and working closely with Bikeability partners to purchase and deliver these bicycles. Supporting this project means more young people can experience the freedom of cycling in a safe and structured way.” Bikeability, the government’s national cycle training programme, equips young riders with practical skills and confidence to cycle safely on today’s roads. In Northamptonshire, Bikeability training is delivered to schools and youth groups by Outspoken Training Ltd. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 19, 2025

Northampton Mortuary enters the final phases of construction

19 December 2025 Construction of the Northampton Mortuary is gathering real momentum, with the project now moving into its final stages ahead of an early spring opening. The facility, being constructed at Riverside Business Park Northampton, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent months. Since becoming wind and watertight in October, the building has transformed quickly inside: walls and rooms are taking shape, specialist equipment is being installed, and the finishing touches that will make the space warm, respectful and fit for purpose are now underway. Outside, the progress is just as visible. The access road is nearing completion, car parking areas will soon be surfaced, electric vehicle charging points installed, and landscaping will soften and frame the site. Every week adds another layer of readiness, and the whole development is beginning to look and feel like the essential community facility it is set to become. “Seeing this project reach the final stages is genuinely uplifting. Walking through the building now, you can really see how far we’ve come and what this new mortuary will mean for families across the county. This has been a long-awaited and much-needed investment, and the progress reflects our commitment to providing dignified, modern and compassionate services for our residents.” Cllr Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for Corporate HR and Regulatory Services at West Northamptonshire Council “This stage of the build is where everything starts to come together, where the structure becomes a place with purpose. Our teams are working diligently to complete the fit-out and external works so the facility can open next spring. We’re proud to play a part in delivering a building that will support families and the wider community for many years.” Graham Lambert, Director at Stepnell Ltd This new facility represents a major improvement for mortuary services in Northamptonshire. Not only will it bring post-mortem and related services together under one roof for the first time, reducing delays and unnecessary travel, but it will also provide modern, carefully designed family spaces that prioritise privacy, compassion and support. For more information about the Northampton Mortuary project, visit the West Northamptonshire Council website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 16, 2025

Queen Eleanor Interchange improvement project – December 2025 update

16 December 2025 The Queen Eleanor Interchange improvement project continues to progress toward its goal of increasing capacity, improving traffic flow, and reducing congestion at this key junction. The timeline on the project, delivered in partnership between West Northamptonshire Council and National Highways, has been extended due to the requirement of additional work. It was originally scheduled for completion by Christmas but a critical element – the extension of the subway – must undergo further construction. This issue is being addressed as a matter of urgency. Additionally, the construction of the concrete cantilever parapet extension - a protective barrier projecting outward from the main structure - is delayed following a necessary redesign. As a result, the subway extension work is now expected to be completed by spring 2026, subject to weather conditions. Once this phase is complete, follow-on activities will resume on Mere Way and London Road, including: Installation of a new kerb line Creation of a grass verge Carriageway resurfacing Road markings Final traffic signal installation Vehicle Restraint Systems (VRS) for enhanced safety For safety reasons, temporary traffic management will remain in place throughout the Christmas and New Year period, including concrete protection barriers on Mere Way and London Road. Work is scheduled to recommence in early January 2026, with all remaining activities planned for completion in spring 2026. At that point, temporary traffic management will be removed, and the interchange will revert to a fully signalised junction. This upgraded interchange will deliver significant benefits for all road users, including: Enhanced safety for drivers and pedestrians Increased lane capacity A fully reconstructed carriageway built to modern standards Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We know this work has been incredibly disruptive and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we work to complete these essential improvements. “We’re expecting those who use this interchange to see noticeable improvements as a result of the extensive work currently taking place.” Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 17, 2025

West Northamptonshire Council opens North-West Relief Road

17 December 2025 Travel across Northampton just became easier after West Northamptonshire Council officially opened the North West Relief Road (NWRR). This new route connects the A428 Harlestone Road with the A5199 Welford Road creating a much-needed link over the railway line to deliver an essential part of the Local Transport Plan and to support economic growth in Northampton. The project included: The construction of 1.5km single carriageway which will be named Gorse Valley Way 400m of causeway – raised road across flood plain A new rail bridge in partnership with Network Rail A new bridge over the River Nene in partnership with the Environment Agency Five culverts Two roundabouts plus flood relief and storage The NWRR was completed within the anticipated timescale despite significant hurdles such as the impact of inflation, Covid 19, the war in Ukraine and two extraordinary events of exceptional flooding in 2023 and 2024. “Today’s opening of the North West Relief Road is a major achievement which will be of great benefit to motorists and businesses in West Northants. “We are very pleased that our partners took great pride in supporting us to deliver within the agreed programme and budget. “They have had to use inventive solutions to address a whole host of challenges encountered throughout this incredibly complex scheme. “It will ease pressure on our local roads, supports economic growth, and improve people’s journeys.” Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet aid: Member for Highways and Transport Environmental protection was prioritised from the outset with measures including silt fencing which stopped sediment seeping into the River Nene, footpath realignment to preserve mature trees, and a ditch designed around a 200-year-old oak to protect its roots. Ecological mitigation included fish rescue and relocation during the River Nene diversion, saving between 600 and 700 fish across several species. The North-West Relief Road was funded through a successful partnership of SEMLEP (now the South Midlands Authorities), developers’ contributions, and Council’s investment. It was delivered within the allocated budget of £57.4m. The northern section was constructed by Balfour Beatty on behalf of the Council whilst the southern section, which was completed in August, has been built by Persimmon Homes and Barratt David Wilson, as part of the new Harlestone Grange development. Key benefits include: Reduced congestion in north-west Northampton, Improved access to the M1 and local business parks, including Lodge Farm and Round Spinney Enhanced journey times and reliability for motorists, public transport users, cyclists, and pedestrians This scheme was subject to planning permission including planning conditions that have been discharged. Some of these conditions required mitigation of the anticipated impact this new road would have at key junctions and locations, as well as in Boughton where traffic calming measures have recently been implemented within a new 20mph zone. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 17, 2025

Council gives deadline to Home Office as it progresses planning enforcement process

17 December 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has today given the Home Office a 21-day deadline to provide information about its use of three hotels as asylum accommodation before it considers next steps in the planning enforcement process and following legal advice and support. The Council has written to the Home Office, in line with its planning enforcement protocol, seeking clarification about their use of the three hotels and requesting information about their current and future requirements. This follows on from the Appeal Court ruling which clearly points to the need for the Home Office to provide information to ensure a robust process. WNC, in its role as the local planning authority, believes a breach of planning control may have occurred at the hotels and the letter is the first step in collating information before deciding whether enforcement action is required. Having already issued Planning Contravention Notices to the owners of the three hotels in September, the Council continues to actively work through the complex legal process for using formal planning enforcement powers, whilst also continuing to gather evidence to ensure it has a robust case. It recently put together a taskforce of senior officers to continue to progress the work as it remains resolute in pursuing action on behalf of its residents. “We remain committed to pursuing our case against the use of these hotels for housing asylum seekers on behalf of our residents, who share our concerns about the unreasonable strain they are placing on our local communities. “This letter to the Home Office is the latest step in the correct planning process and they have 21 days to respond to us with the information we require clarifying their use of these hotels. Whilst we wait their response, we will continue our work on building a robust legal case.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of the Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 17, 2025

Keep your Christmas food safe this festive season

17 December 2025 Christmas is a time for coming together over good food, whether it’s the big dinner, a Boxing Day buffet, or a table full of snacks for New Year’s Eve. But nothing spoils the holidays faster than a bout of food poisoning. Warm rooms, long evenings, and busy kitchens all make it easier for bacteria to grow, especially when food is left out for too long. A few simple steps can help keep everyone safe and well. Put out only the amount of buffet food you expect people to eat, and top it up from the fridge as needed. Move any leftovers into the fridge within 4 hours. Plan your menu with care, smoked fish, soft cheese and cold meats can carry listeria, which multiplies quickly at room temperature. Cool leftovers quickly by spreading them out on a cool plate, letting them stand in a cooler spot, and putting them in the fridge within 90 minutes. Enjoy the celebrations, share the food, and keep everyone safe around the table this Christmas. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 15, 2025

New leisure centre service to deliver improved facilities in West Northants

15 December 2025 A major new leisure service will deliver significant investment and improved facilities across West Northamptonshire, following the appointment of Sports & Leisure Management Ltd (SLM), trading as Everyone Active, to operate council-run centres in Northampton and Daventry for the next ten years. Awarded after an extensive competitive procurement process, the new service will enhance local leisure provision, improve quality, and deliver better value for residents. It will come into effect on 1 April 2026, covering Daventry Leisure Centre, Daventry Sports Park, Moulton Leisure Centre, Danes Camp Leisure Centre, Mounts Baths and Lings Forum Leisure Centre. The agreement will unlock a comprehensive programme of modernisation and refurbishment, creating high-quality, accessible and welcoming spaces that support healthier, more active lifestyles. This investment forms a key part of West Northamptonshire Council’s long-term commitment to boosting health and wellbeing, increasing participation in physical activity, and ensuring leisure facilities continue to meet local need. Towcester Centre for Leisure and Brackley Leisure Centre will continue to be operated by Legacy Leisure under an existing contract which runs until 2036. Everyone Active - who currently operate Daventry Leisure Centre, Daventry Sports Park and Moulton Leisure Centre - will take on management of the Northampton centres from Trilogy Active, who chose not to bid for the new contract. Among many benefits, the new service will introduce a strengthened package of social value and inclusion measures, including: Discounted fees for care-experienced young people, carers and support for vulnerable groups Discounted fees for Armed Forces, veterans, Emergency Services workers, students and those people over state pension age This new service represents a major investment in the future of leisure provision in West Northants. We are committed to ensuring our communities have access to modern, inspiring and inclusive facilities that support healthy, active lifestyles. The Council also has a duty to secure best value for taxpayers, ensuring economy, efficiency and effectiveness. With Trilogy Active’s current contract due to end in 2026, it was right to test the market through a full and lawful tender process. Everyone Active has a strong national track record, and we look forward to working with them to deliver the high-quality services our residents expect and deserve. Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture, and Leisure The Council will now work closely with Everyone Active and Trilogy Active during a three-month mobilisation period to ensure a smooth, seamless transition for customers and staff. All leisure centres will remain open, and further updates will be provided to members, partners and users over the coming months. Everyone Active has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with West Northamptonshire Council which has gone from strength to strength. We are extremely proud of this partnership and are delighted to have extended it for another 10 years. With six sites included in the new service, alongside significant investment, the future is bright for leisure in West Northamptonshire. Serving communities is at the heart of what we do and we are committed to providing the very best experience for local people over the next decade. Simon Fearn, Everyone Active’s regional contract manager Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 15, 2025

Major investment plans to be considered for social housing in West Northants

15 December 2025 Major investment plans for social housing in West Northamptonshire will be discussed next week as part of proposals for the 2026/27 Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget, outlining significant investment in council housing and key steps in the transition to bring housing services back under direct Council control from April 2026. The HRA is the ring-fenced budget that funds the management, maintenance and improvement of more than 11,000 council homes. The draft budget sets out how WNC will continue to invest in safer, better-quality housing, strengthen compliance, and support the long-term sustainability of the service as responsibilities transfer back into the Council. The proposed investment includes £78.6 million through the HRA capital programme, supporting new build housing, estate improvements, heating upgrades and disabled adaptations. By 2031, the Council will have delivered £359.6 million in housing investment, ensuring sustained improvements to homes, estates and community facilities across West Northamptonshire. As part of the housing services transition, Cabinet will also consider the proposed management fee for Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH) for the final year of the current arrangements, ensuring funding is in place to support the move of enabler services back in-house. This includes investment in new systems, strengthened oversight and the foundations needed for a modernised, directly delivered housing service. “We are entering an important period as we move housing services back under the direct control of the Council. This draft budget ensures that we can continue to invest substantially in our homes, meet our responsibilities to tenants, and strengthen the long-term resilience of the service. Delivering safe, high-quality and sustainable homes remains a fundamental priority for West Northamptonshire.” Cllr John Slope, Cabinet Member for Finance The draft budget also includes a planned £2.7 million contribution to HRA reserves to support future investment and maintain financial stability during this period of transition. In line with the Government’s Rent Standard, the proposals include a 4.8% increase to average social rents from April 2026, alongside a 4.8% rise in service charges, garage rents and commuter surcharges. These increases ensure continued investment in essential housing services and help maintain a sustainable long-term financial position for the HRA. If approved for consultation, the proposals will be open for public feedback from 23 December 2025 to 3 February 2026. Cabinet will then consider the final budget in February, before it goes to Full Council for approval. Full details and consultation information will be available on the WNC website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 15, 2025

WNC pledges to invest in communities and infrastructure

15 December 2025 West Northamptonshire Council will continue to build for the future by investing in a broad range of schemes and projects to improve local infrastructure and services for our communities in the year ahead. In 2026/27, the Council is planning to earmark £83 million within its capital programme to priority projects across highways, education, housing, and regeneration. While the Council continues to face significant financial pressures and the need to make savings in its revenue budget, which funds day-to-day services, capital funding works very differently. It can only be used for one-off projects, such as improving roads, building and expanding schools, regenerating town centres, and upgrading public facilities, and cannot be spent on running everyday services. Much of this funding also comes from specific government grants or other sources that legally have to be used for capital projects. This means the Council can invest in important improvements while still managing the pressures on frontline services. Just as a household cannot pay weekly bills from a mortgage, the Council cannot use capital funds to cover the cost of daily operations. The Council is therefore proposing in total a £143 million capital programme spanning 2026/27 to 2030/31, designed to deliver long‑term benefits for residents and businesses. This long-term investment aims to strengthen local infrastructure, support safer and more vibrant communities, and prepare West Northamptonshire for future growth. Planned key investments for 2026/27 include: Adult Social Care – £26 million over five years to support independent living through home adaptations, equipment and assistive technology. Assets and Environment – £18 million next year, contributing to £24 million over four years to modernise buildings, improve environmental resilience and deliver new facilities. Town Centre Regeneration and Place Shaping – £9 million next year, with £21 million over five years to deliver projects like the Marefare Heritage Gateway, Abington Street Redevelopments and improvements to leisure and public spaces. Highways and Waste – £8 million next year, contributing to over £15 million across five years to maintain roads, improve safety and support cleaner, more sustainable transport. Housing and Communities – £2 million next year, within a wider five-year £2 million programme supporting disabled facilities, libraries and community services. Education – £5 million next year, part of a £7 million four-year plan to increase school places and improve SEND provision for local families. These investments are about improving everyday life for residents, from safer roads and better school places to revitalised town centres and community facilities. While we must continue to manage our day-to-day budget carefully, it is crucial that we keep building for the future. This capital programme will help West Northamptonshire grow, create new opportunities and remain a great place to live, work and visit for years to come. Councillor John Slope, Cabinet Member for Finance WNC’s Cabinet will meet to discuss the draft 2026-27 budget on Monday, 22 December at the Forum, Towcester, from 6pm. The report and papers are available to view on the WNC website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 12, 2025

WNC and Hope Centre relaunch winter night shelter to protect rough sleepers this winter

12 December 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Northampton Hope Centre will once again open a Winter Shelter from January to March 2026, offering a safe and welcoming space for people sleeping rough during the coldest months of the year. The project, funded by the Council and delivered by Hope, will ensure no one is left out in freezing conditions. This year’s shelter will be based at the Holy Sepulchre Community Rooms on Church Lane, Northampton - next to, but not inside, the church. The venue will provide a warm, safe place to sleep, with hot drinks and professional security staff on site throughout the night to ensure everyone’s safety and wellbeing. The shelter will run alongside WNC’s new specialist supported accommodation service at St John’s House in Northampton. During the day, guests will be supported at Hope’s day centre based in Oasis House, where they can access hot meals, showers, and personalised support aimed at tackling the root causes of homelessness. Once individuals are safe, warm, and rested, they can then begin to address challenges such as money management, addiction, or mental health. The ultimate aim is to help people move into long-term, stable housing, giving them the opportunity to rebuild their lives and become self-sufficient. The Winter Shelter also supports WNC’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP), which is usually activated when the temperature is forecast to drop below 0°C for three consecutive nights or during extreme weather such as heavy snowfall or storms. During these periods, WNC’s outreach teams will be deployed across West Northants to identify and assist anyone at risk, ensuring they are aware of the overnight accommodation and support available. “As temperatures drop, our priority is making sure no one in West Northants is left out in the cold. By partnering once again with the Northampton Hope Centre, we can offer a safe, warm place for people sleeping rough and ensure they receive meaningful support during the harshest months of the year. “This is not just about providing a bed for the night, it’s about giving people stability, dignity, and a route into longer-term housing. The close work between the Winter Shelter, our outreach teams, and the new supported accommodation at St John’s House means we can help people begin to rebuild their lives with the right care around them. “I want to thank the Hope Centre and all the volunteers and residents whose compassion continues to make a real difference. Together, we are helping some of the most vulnerable members of our community find safety, support, and hope.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities “Winter can be a very difficult time for anyone sleeping rough. The shelter gives people warmth, dignity, and safety - but it’s also a gateway to hope. Thanks to the continued funding from West Northamptonshire Council, we can help people not only off the streets but towards a life where they have a home, stability, and the tools to move forward. “The people of Northampton have always shown incredible kindness and generosity. Whether it’s volunteering for a few hours, donating a coat, or helping fund a night of shelter, every action helps save lives this winter and gives people a chance to start again.” Joanne Pritchard, CEO of Northampton Hope Centre The Hope Centre is appealing for donations of warm clothing and essential items including coats, hats, gloves, thermals, new socks and underwear, and toiletries. Financial donations are equally valuable and go directly towards running costs, security, and emergency essentials. Every donation, large or small, makes a real difference. Anyone wishing to donate can do so via The Hope Centre's website , or by getting in touch with the team at [email protected] . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 12, 2025

Council continues action against asylum hotels

12 December 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has set up a taskforce as it continues to progress its action against the use of three hotels in the area being used for asylum accommodation. The Council, in its role as the local planning authority, believes a breach of planning control has occurred at the hotels and is in the process of taking legal steps as it considers enforcement action. Having issued Planning Contravention Notices to the owners of the three hotels in September, the Council has since been actively working through the complex legal process for using formal planning enforcement powers, whilst also continuing to gather evidence to ensure it has a robust case. It has now put together a taskforce of senior officers to continue to progress the work as it remains resolute in pursuing action on behalf of its residents. “The taskforce is a significant step forward as we pursue our case against the use of hotels housing asylum seekers, which continue to place an unreasonable strain on our already overstretched public services. It is important the council has strong evidence and has considered all legal opinion to ensure its chances of success in future action against these hotels. “We’ve seen from the case regarding The Bell Hotel in Epping and Justice Mould’s judgement, that injunctive action was not the appropriate legal instrument, and I’m pleased that my Council is following the correct planning process in order to reach the right conclusion.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 12, 2025

Council tackles toughest budget yet to help safeguard services

12 December 2025 Balancing the books for West Northamptonshire Council’s forthcoming financial year has been the toughest task yet in the light of the authority’s severe funding pressures and unprecedented demand for services supporting the most vulnerable people. The Council today published its draft budget proposals for 2026-27 which will be discussed by its Cabinet on Monday, 22 December. Like councils across the country, WNC continues to face significant financial challenges caused by increasing cost and demand for children’s and adults social care, temporary housing for homelessness and other demand led statutory services. There also remains uncertainty around the Council’s full financial picture for next year as it still waits to find out how much Government money it will receive following the "Fair Funding" review, which changes the way grants are calculated and allocated to all local authorities. WNC started its budgetary process this year with an anticipated shortfall of £50m for 2026/27 and embarked quickly on an early review of its finances, identifying around £20m of efficiencies and savings towards closing the gap this autumn. However, with the already-lean unitary authority having made £115m of savings over the past four years, this latest round of budget-setting has been the most difficult so far, with the search for more efficiencies to bridge the shortfall increasingly difficult. The Council is therefore proposing a range of measures for 2026-27 to help it set a balanced revenue budget for 2026/2027 of £1.01billion (£458.9m excluding the Dedicated Schools Grant). This includes increasing its part of the Council Tax by an average 4.99% in line with what the Government allows – the equivalent of an extra £93.16 per year or £1.79 a week for the average Band D household and generating additional income of £17m to the Council. The draft budget also reviews the Council’s discretionary fees and charges (those not required by law) which includes increasing charges for some services not used by all residents, such as garden waste collection and car parking. “This has been the toughest budget-setting since our Council was formed five years ago and certainly the toughest, most difficult set of decisions our Administration have had to take since we took over in May. “We could see the huge scale of financial pressures we inherited and the relentless annual savings the Council has made in the light of rising service demand and continued under funding. Despite councillors and officers working hard to unearth many more millions of pounds in efficiencies, we simply can’t find enough to bridge such a huge financial gap. “So, as with previous years, we must look to other measures once again, like council tax and fees and charges. We know these proposals aren’t going to be popular with everyone but our top priority has to be protecting the most essential services and our most vulnerable people and ensuring we do propose a balanced budget for next year.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council “Whilst we still await our final funding settlement from the Government there is always hope this may shift us towards a more favourable position, but we can’t rely on anything at this stage. We have been prudent and thorough in setting these draft budget proposals and left no stone unturned in doing so. After discussing these proposals in great detail at our Cabinet meeting later this month, we will then be seeking the views of residents as part of an extensive six-week consultation and it’s absolutely imperative that people give their views on the measures put forward and we listen to these ahead of shaping our final budget early in the new year.” Councillor John Slope, WNC’s Finance Cabinet Member WNC’s Cabinet will meet to discuss the draft 2026-27 budget on Monday, 22 December at the Forum, Towcester, from 6pm. The report and papers are available to view on our Agenda page Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 12, 2025

Council search for new Chief Executive continues

12 December 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has paused plans for appointing a new permanent Chief Executive until later next year so it can refocus its approach. The decision was made this week by the Council’s Senior Appointments Committee of cross-party councillors after interviewing candidates for the Chief Executive role, which is responsible for ensuring the delivery of over 900 public services to more than 430,000 people across West Northants, leading over 2,800 staff and managing budgets totalling over £1.2bn. While the Committee met some impressive candidates, members agreed that at this time they did not have the ideal person to lead the UK’s fifth largest unitary council into its next, fresh chapter for improving local services and communities in West Northants. The Council’s current interim chief executive, Martin Henry, will continue in the role until the summer, when a second round of recruitment is expected to take place. Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of the Council, said: “As we enter our next, exciting chapter as a Council, it’s really important we have the very best person for the role of our new Chief Executive. We felt that some of the candidates had the potential to do the role but having considered them all at great length the Panel was not persuaded that we currently had the right fit at this point in time.” “Given the uncertain national backdrop of significant funding pressures, major local government reform and devolution, it makes sense that we pause our recruitment plans for a while and reflect and refocus on the process. We also saw significant changes to our make-up across all parties in May’s elections and revisiting the recruitment a year on from this will give us time to further embed and shape our priorities in readiness for our next permanent chief executive.” Councillor Daniel Lister, member of the Senior Appointments Committee, added: “We would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the recruitment so far and we really value the support and involvement of our partners, whose insight has been invaluable. West Northamptonshire has real momentum and a story that deserves to be heard on a bigger stage. This is an important moment for us to strengthen our voice and take the time to make sure we get this appointment right for our residents and businesses. “As our search continues, we are determined to secure a new Chief Executive that will give West Northamptonshire a strong voice, build influential partnerships and turn that ambition into visible results for local people. In the meantime, residents can be reassured that the Council remains in strong and safe hands with Martin Henry as Interim Chief Executive and Stuart Timmiss as Interim Deputy Chief Executive.” Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 11, 2025

Cleaner air across West Northamptonshire brings real benefits for residents

11 December 2025 Residents across West Northamptonshire are continuing to breathe cleaner, healthier air as new findings show another year of improvement in local air quality. West Northamptonshire Council’s latest Air Quality Annual Status Report confirms that air quality continued to improve throughout 2024, helping to make our communities safer, healthier and more pleasant places to live, work and visit. Cleaner air means a lot to local people, it reduces the risk of health problems such as asthma and heart disease, supports children’s development, and makes our towns and villages more enjoyable spaces for everyone. This year’s report shows that efforts made across the area are working, and people are already seeing the benefits. The report confirms that only one location in the whole of West Northamptonshire recorded nitrogen dioxide levels above the national limit and one location was within 10% of the air quality objective in 2024. Just two years earlier, there were two locations which exceeded the national limit and eleven sites within 10% of it. This dramatic fall means cleaner streets, safer walking routes and healthier neighbourhoods. Thanks to this progress, two areas on the main routes into Northampton, the M1 corridor and the A45, have now met national standards for more than three years and the previous Air Quality Management Areas have been revoked. This marks a major milestone in reducing pollution where many residents travel, work and go to school. Although a new Air Quality Management Area was introduced in Bradshaw Street in late 2024, further checks now show that levels there have improved too and on target to continue to meet national limits. Three other areas in Northampton, Victoria Promenade, Campbell Square and St Michael’s and a fourth in Watling Street, Towcester, have also shown sustained improvement and action will be taken to revoke those Air Quality management Areas early in 2026. Monitoring will continue to ensure that reduced levels are maintained. “These improvements are good news for everyone who lives and works in West Northamptonshire. Cleaner air means healthier families, safer streets and stronger communities. We’re really proud of the progress so far, and we’re pleased that DEFRA have endorsed our findings and support our direction of travel. so that every resident can enjoy the benefits of cleaner, safer air, now and in the future.” Cllr Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate and Regulatory Services A big part of these improvements comes from long-term investment aimed at giving residents cleaner travel choices and reducing pollution at its source. More than 50 new electric buses are on their way and will be operating along some of the busiest routes in Northampton and Kingsthorpe from March 2026. This will make journeys quieter, cleaner and safer for passengers while cutting emissions. The Council has also secured £2.8 million to install 1,450 new electric vehicle charging points across the area, helping more residents who want to switch to cleaner vehicles. To support healthier homes, a two-year DEFRA-funded project is helping people understand the impact of domestic solid fuel burning, such as wood stoves and open fires. The project provides simple, helpful advice about choosing cleaner fuels and using appliances more efficiently to reduce smoke and protect family health. Residents can find easy-to-follow guidance by searching online for The Burning Question webpage . Residents can read the full Air Quality Annual Status Report on the air quality page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 09, 2025

Northampton Market Square on Ice skates off to a successful start

09 December 2025 Hundreds of people got their skates on to enjoy the first weekend of Northampton Market Square’s real ice rink, which is running throughout the Christmas and New Year period whatever the weather. Over 1,500 people joined in the festive fun on the rink this Saturday and Sunday as the town centre thronged with shoppers only three weekends away from Christmas. Northampton Market Square on Ice opened to the public on Thursday (4 December) and runs until 4 January. The ice rink is the festive focal point for the successfully redeveloped Market Square, which has been transformed into an exciting new space for a range of community events and activities. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has delivered the ice rink with support from Northampton BID and Northampton Town Council to boost footfall, encourage visitors to explore the town centre, and support local businesses, particularly in the approach to Christmas. Tickets are available now via The Old Savoy website . Early booking is encouraged to secure your preferred session time. Spanning 14m x 22m, it has been designed and engineered by the specialist team behind ITV’s Dancing on Ice and London’s iconic Somerset House. Like other major festive skating events around the country, visitors can also enjoy festive hot drinks and quality cocktails at a fully licensed rink-side bar. Comprehensive safety risk assessments are in place for both the ice rink and bar with all skate staff SIA (Security Industry Authority) qualified and trained to assess whether someone is fit to skate. It has been fantastic to see so many people take to the ice since the rink opened. The turnout over the weekend shows how much Northampton embraces a bit of festive fun. The Market Square is the heart of our town centre and a major driver for bringing people in, supporting our market traders and local businesses, and strengthening our reputation as a destination. This investment is already helping boost footfall, encourage shoppers to spend locally and spread some much-needed Christmas cheer. People told us they wanted something fun in the Market Square for Christmas, well here it is. So don’t be a bah humbug, come down, have a go and enjoy it. Councillor James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC Alongside daily skating sessions, the programme features a packed calendar of festive activity: Christmas Jumper Day - Thursday 11 December Join us for Christmas Jumper Day and meet Santa on the ice for festive photos from 4pm to 6pm. We’ll also be donating a 20 percent of ticket sales to Save the Children, in support of their Christmas Jumper Day campaign. Wear your brightest knits and help us raise vital funds for a fantastic cause. Carols on the Square - Saturday 13 December A heart-warming afternoon full of festive performances from 2pm to 6pm, showcasing local choirs and singers, headlined by Britain’s Got Talent finalists Northants Sings Out and Northampton’s own Billy Lockett. Student Takeover - Wednesday 17 December A dedicated event for local & returning students to exclusively skate in the heart of the town. Live music and performances from student bands, with students able to skate for a special discounted rate of £7.50 with valid ID. Plus music and drinks offers throughout the evening. Festive Family Day - Sunday 21 December The perfect day to bring the entire family down for, where the ice rink will be in full swing along with a full day of FREE family-friendly activities, including face painting, balloon modelling, storytelling and more. SEND-friendly Skating Sessions Quiet, inclusive sessions will run as the first session of each day on 10, 17, 21, 28, 31 December and 4 January, at a discounted rate of £7.50 per ticket with parents/carers skating for free. Santa’s Grotto will also be open every weekend throughout December in the Grosvenor Centre, with the Northampton BID Golden Ticket Giveaway running until 14 December offering shoppers the chance to win vouchers. A dedicated Christmas radio station from NLive Radio will also fill the town with festive tunes throughout the month. Tickets are available now via The Old Savoy website . Early booking is encouraged to secure your preferred session time. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 05, 2025

Waste and recycling collection arrangements for the festive season in West Northants

05 December 2025 With the festive season fast approaching, residents are advised on the arrangements for waste and recycling collections over the Christmas and New Year period. Waste and recycling collection crews will be working throughout the festive season to make sure that residents can continue to recycle and dispose of their Christmas waste. West Northamptonshire Council is encouraging residents to familiarise themselves with the information below: Collection changes The public holidays will affect households on a Thursday or Friday bin collection this year, as follows: Daventry area (collected by West Northamptonshire Norse) Collections due Thursday 25 December will take place on Saturday 27 December Collections due Friday 26 December will take place on Sunday 28 December Collections due Thursday 1 January will take place on Saturday 3 January. South Northants area (collected by WNC’s in-house service) Collections due Thursday 25 December will take place on Saturday 27 December Collections due Friday 26 December will take place on Monday 29 December Collections due Thursday 1 January will take place on Saturday 3 January. Northampton area (Collected by Veolia) Collections due Thursday 25 December will take place on Saturday 27 December Downloadable bin calendars that detail the collection arrangements for the year ahead are now available on the Council’s website and residents can also download the free West Northamptonshire Council app from the Apple or Google Play stores to check collections, what goes in which bin and set regular reminders. Additional recycling If residents have more recycling than their bin can handle, please put it in clear plastic bags or boxes and present it alongside their recycling bins or boxes. This can also be taken to their nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre by booking in advance on the online booking system. Residents are reminded batteries of any kind should never be put into bins. Instead place your used batteries in a plastic bag and recycle in the following way: In the former Daventry area - place on top of your black bin In Northampton - place on top of your recycling bin In South - place on either bin Alternatively they can take used batteries to a Recycling Centre or back to the retailer. Household Waste Recycling Centres WNC recycling centres will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, and will close early on Christmas Eve, at 2pm. With those exceptions they will be open from 10am to 4pm as usual, offering a great way to dispose of a range of materials, from excess household waste, to recycling and larger items that can’t be collected as part of your kerbside collection service. Please remember you must book a slot in advance on our booking system Garden waste Garden waste will be suspended from Monday 22 December through to Sunday 4 January across the whole of West Northamptonshire. Real tree collections Crews will collect real Christmas trees for composting from Monday 5 January through to Friday 16 January, on the normal garden bin collection round. Please note, you do not need to subscribe to the garden waste subscription service to have your real Christmas tree collected. Please ensure trees over 6ft tall are cut in half so they fit in the lorries safely. They can also be taken to your your nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre. Food waste Food waste bins will continue to be collected on their usual weekly schedule. Please remember you can recycle leftover raw and cooked foods, including veg peelings, egg shells, out-of-date food, plate scrapings, solid fats, meat and fish bones. “A big thank you to our collection and street cleaning crews, as well as the dedicated staff at our waste and recycling centres. Their commitment ensures residents receive an essential service all year round, whatever the weather. "At this time of year, recycling and waste levels often increase, so I ask everyone to please dispose of items responsibly, whether through household recycling bins or at one of our six recycling centres. Please remember to book ahead before visiting an HWRC, and if you’re unsure about how to correctly dispose of your waste, check our website or the WNC app for guidance." Cllr Nigel Stansfield, Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste at West Northamptonshire Council For more information about collections together with top tips for reducing your waste and recycling more this Christmas on our waste and recycling pages Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 04, 2025

Fire Service among first to sign up to Northamptonshire Women’s Charter

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is among the first organisations across the county to sign up to the Northamptonshire Women’s Charter. The Women’s Charter is Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone’s call to action for organisations to promote safer environments for women – and therefore everyone – particularly in the workplace. Nikki Watson, Chief Fire Officer for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We can all do more as employers and I want to make sure our stations and offices for firefighters and fire staff are as welcoming and as safe as they can be. “By signing the Women’s Charter, the Service is making a clear commitment to keeping women’s safety at the heart of our conversations. “I want every member of staff to understand the important role they play in being allies to each other.” Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, Northamptonshire Police, Northampton Town Football Club, Northampton Town Football Club Community Trust, London Northwestern Railway, Greatwell Homes, Brackmills BID and Northampton BID were the first signatories at the launch on 1 December. These organisations signed up to show they will take action to create inclusive spaces and take reporting seriously. In return, the Commissioner’s office is providing organisations who sign up with a free and exclusive Charter Toolkit. It includes specialist survey support, which will inform workplaces about safety changes women want to see, bespoke training packages, plus support for SMEs to create workplace policies that prevent harm. Danielle Stone said: “The Women’s Charter is part of my wider public safety plan to tackle violence against women and girls. “We need a shared grip on what women want to make them feel safer where they work, such as secure routes to work or better tools to report harassment. “My Women’s Charter is packed full of practical steps to make Northamptonshire a safer place and empower employers to play their part in challenging their existing workplace culture.” It comes as the Service is also on a mission to become White Ribbon accredited. White Ribbon is the leading charity engaging men and boys in preventing violence against women and girls. The campaign calls on individuals to challenge harmful behaviours and create a culture of respect. The Northamptonshire Women’s Charter is now free to sign up to for all organisations across the county on the Commissioner’s website.

December 04, 2025

Organisations urged to sign up for new wave of funded Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Training

04 December 2025 Organisations across Northamptonshire are being encouraged to register for the latest round of fully funded Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Training, delivered through the Mental Health, Learning Disability and Autism (MHLDA) Collaborative’s Population Health and Prevention Pillar as part of the All-Age Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Training Framework. A new set of training dates has now been released, and employers, community groups, and partner organisations are invited to sign up and share these opportunities with their teams. The programme offers a mix of in-person and online courses at no cost, including Mental Health First Aid training from Kelly’s Heroes and Suicide First Aid courses from Diversiti UK. Eligibility criteria have been updated , so organisations are encouraged to review them before applying. Those interested in securing a place can do so via the expression of interest form , where full course dates and details are available under Question 7. To stay informed about future releases and programme updates, organisations can subscribe to update emails here . With demand for mental health skills rising, this is a valuable opportunity for organisations to strengthen knowledge, confidence, and early-intervention capability across their teams. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 03, 2025

Have your say on the future of transport in West Northamptonshire

03 December 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has launched a public consultation on three draft transport strategies that will shape how people travel across the area in the years ahead. These documents build on feedback received during consultation on the Council’s Local Transport Plan last summer. Residents, businesses, and community groups are being encouraged to share their views and help create a transport network that supports growth, sustainability, and better connectivity. The consultation focuses on three key areas: Active Travel – Making walking, wheeling, and cycling the natural first choice for local, everyday journeys Mobility Hubs – Creating convenient locations where people can switch easily between different modes of transport, making travel cleaner and more accessible Rail – Working with the rail industry to improve services, accessibility, and infrastructure for both passengers and freight Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We want to hear from as many people as possible. “These strategies are about creating a transport system that works for everyone - whether you walk, cycle, use public transport, or drive. “Your input will help us deliver a network that meets the needs of our communities now and in the future.” The consultation runs from 3 December 2025 to 27 January 2026, and feedback can be provided through an online survey . Two online information events will take place on Thursday 8 January, giving residents and communities the chance to ask questions and learn more about the proposals. These will be from 11am to 12.30pm and 6pm to 7.30pm on Microsoft Teams and will feature a presentation followed by a chance to ask questions. Email [email protected] to register. To take part and find out more, visit our consultation pages . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 03, 2025

Have your say on school admissions in West Northamptonshire

03 December 2025 Residents across West Northamptonshire are being asked to help shape the school admission arrangements for 2027 intakes for local authority-maintained schools as well as those run by academy trusts and governing bodies. West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) School Admission Team have launched a public consultation to ask residents their views on the admissions arrangements for Council-managed schools and any mainstream schools whose admission authorities have asked us to co-ordinate their consultation for them. The aim of the consultation is to raise awareness of any proposed changes to school admission arrangements and ensure that these are subject to appropriate consultation. I really encourage parents, carers and guardians with children in primary or secondary school to share their views in this consulttion. We know how important it is to get school place allocations right and the only way to achieve that is by ensuring the voices and experiences of those directly affected help shape any admission arrangements for the 2027 academic year. Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families, and Education at WNC Following the consultation period, WNC and other admission authorities will review their proposed admission arrangements prior to these coming into effect for the September 2027 intakes. To view the list of schools consulting this year and to respond to the consultation, please visit our website. The consultation will close at midnight, on Tuesday 31 December 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 03, 2025

Fire crews carry out checks to make sure shopping centres stay safe for Christmas

Fire crews have visited shopping centres across the county to make sure shops are safe from fire hazards in the busy build up to Christmas. Over the last two weeks, crews from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service have been working with individual retailers to ensure that Christmas stock deliveries are not blocking fire doors or escape routes or obscuring sprinkler systems. More than 200 retail units have been checked in shopping centres including the Grosvenor Centre and Weston Favell in Northampton, Swansgate in Wellingborough, Newlands in Kettering, and Willow Place in Corby. Firefighters were accompanied by members of the Fire Service’s Protection Team, who were on hand to provide expert advice on fire safety to retailers. Scott Richards, Head of Protection at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We know our shopping centres will become extremely busy in the lead up to Christmas. “So ahead of that it has been important for us to work proactively with shopping centres and the retail units within them to identify any hazards and make sure they are rectified. “The checks that have been carried out by our fire crews have also helped them to gather intelligence which can help them to prepare and plan for any emergencies they may be called to. “I want to thank all the shopping centres that have been involved for working with us to ensure that their premises are safe as possible for both their staff and customers to enjoy during the festive season.” A spokesperson for the Grosvenor Shopping Centre Management Team added: “We are pleased to support Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service with their proactive fire safety work in the centre. “The safety and wellbeing of our shoppers, staff, and community is our highest priority, and we value this strong partnership approach, particularly at such a busy time of year. We appreciate the work the crews are doing to help ensure a safe and enjoyable festive season for everyone.” The Christmas visits have been delivered during the Safer Streets Winter of Action campaign, which is being led through the Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone and supported by the Home Office – to create safer, thriving town centres and make a lasting difference to communities. Key initiatives like this are also a key part of Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to keeping our communities safe. The annual budget consultation which has launched is your opportunity to have your say on funding for the fire service. Complete the survey and have your say here: www.research.net/r/OPFCCPR25 The Protection Team visits more than 1,000 premises every year to help improve fire safety in the buildings where people work and visit. Businesses can contact the Protection Team for specialist advice, and to receive a bespoke safety approach by emailing: fireprotection@northantsfire.gov.uk They can also call 01604 797 000 and ask for Fire Protection or request a visit from Protection Officers by clicking here: https://www.northantsfire.gov.uk/contact-2/

December 01, 2025

Northampton Guardians Awarded King’s Award for Voluntary Service

01 December 2025 Since 2021, Northampton Guardians has been providing a safeguarding and welfare service in Northampton Town Centre every Friday and Saturday night. The team works tirelessly to support the safety and wellbeing of people enjoying the night-time economy, operating in partnership with the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (OPFCC), Northamptonshire Police, East Midlands Ambulance Service, Northampton Street Pastors, and local venues. The charity’s volunteers offer a visible and approachable presence on the streets, providing reassurance, guidance, and practical support to those who may be vulnerable or distressed. Their work includes helping individuals get home safely, providing welfare assistance, and supporting emergency services during busy periods. Receiving the King’s Award is an incredible milestone for our charity. It recognises the dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts of every volunteer who has contributed to making Northampton a safer, more supportive place. We are deeply grateful to our volunteers, partners, and supporters, this achievement belongs to all of us. Gill Goodship, Charity Trustee at Northampton Guardians Since its launch, the charity has contributed over 15,000 volunteer hours and supported more than 2,600 people, demonstrating the power of community-led action to protect and care for those in need. We are proud to see the dedication of Northampton Guardians recognised at a national level. Their work is a powerful example of how volunteers and the community can work together to improve safety in our town. James Saunders Watson, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire To find out more about the charity or how you can get involved, please visit the Northampton Guardians website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 02, 2025

New year brings new opportunities for residents to help shape the future of growth and development in West Northamptonshire

02 December 2025 Residents, parish councils, businesses and community groups will play an important part in shaping West Northamptonshire’s updated Local Plan in a major public consultation set to take place in the new year. The Local Plan shapes the future of development across the area, setting out how land will be used for housing, employment, and green spaces over the next two decades. Following significant changes to the Plan since the last stage of its development in June 2024, West Northamptonshire Council will be launching a fresh public consultation after being considered by councillors in January. Further details on how people will be able to have their say will be available closer to the time in the new year and the Council is keen to encourage residents, parish councils and their communities across the area to get involved. The Government’s revised housing targets mean West Northamptonshire must plan for future growth and ensure a 15-year strategy for sustainable development. The updated plan will run to 2043 and will guide how we balance homes, jobs, and infrastructure. The Plan also proposes: Policies to bring forward regeneration sites such as Greyfriars in Northampton. Updates to planning boundaries to reflect growth areas. Enhanced protection for valued green spaces nominated by communities. Updated development management policies covering a wide range of topics. The views of residents, parishes, businesses and wider community are going to be essential as we update our Local Plan, to ensure we manage housing growth in a way that supports our communities, protects our environment, and delivers the homes and jobs people need. We will be providing further information soon on how people can get involved when the consultation launches in the new year. I would strongly encourage people to get involved as their input will really make a difference in ensuring this Plan reflects local priorities and creates thriving places for generations to come. Cllr Thomas Manning, Cabinet Member for Planning at West Northamptonshire Council While the Local Plan consultation will open in early 2026, residents can help shape how development supports local infrastructure. The Council is currently consulting on developer contributions for roads, schools, health services, and other essential facilities. This is your chance to help ensure growth is matched by investment in the services communities rely on. Click here to find out more and respond to the current consultation. Details of the Local Plan consultation will be published when it opens in the new year. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 02, 2025

Changes to WNC’s Housing Services set to progress after scrutiny meeting

02 December 2025 Plans to bring over 11,000 council homes back under the direct management of West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) are set to move forward following further scrutiny by councillors. The Council will proceed with a phased approach to bring its housing stock currently managed by Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH) back inhouse by April 2027 after the proposals were considered by WNC’s Children, Education and Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee last night (Monday 1 December). The move, which was approved by Cabinet earlier this month, will see the phased transfer of housing stock management from Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH) back to the Council by April 2027. Around 11,500 homes currently managed by NPH, including general needs properties, older persons housing and supported accommodation, will be overseen directly by WNC. This move, which was approved by Cabinet last month, will see round 11,500 homes currently managed by NPH, including general needs properties, older persons housing and supported accommodation, will be overseen directly by WNC. It reflects the Council’s commitment to improving safety, transparency and long-term service quality. With new obligations under the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, the in-house model will allow WNC stronger oversight and accountability, while delivering a more integrated housing service across West Northamptonshire. The Council’s phased plans will now move ahead after the Children, Education and Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee determined no further action be taken on Cabinet’s original decision. WNC will begin transferring back-office and corporate functions in 2026, followed by a full transfer of remaining housing services by no later than April 2027. NPH will continue operating during the transition period to ensure continuity for tenants and staff. With Cabinet’s decision now further scrutinised, we can now move forward with the work to bring the Council’s housing stock back under our direct management as we continue to strive to improve housing services for out residents. As we move through this transition, tenants will continue accessing services in the usual way, and we will work closely with NPH to ensure services remain consistent. We thank everyone who gave their views in the consultation to bring these services back inhouse and are committed to keeping residents regularly informed as this work progresses. Our focus is on delivering safe, efficient and high-quality housing services that meet the needs of people across West Northamptonshire. Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities Residents can continue to contact NPH in the usual way for any housing-related enquiries during the transition. WNC will provide regular updates on the progress of the transition via its website and tenant communications. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 02, 2025

Skate into the festive season as Northampton’s new town centre ice rink opens this week

02 December 2025 The wait is nearly over, Northampton Market Square on Ice is ready to open the brand new, covered real ice rink this Thursday, bringing a welcome burst of festive energy to the town centre. Spanning 14m x 22m, the rink promises an unforgettable experience for families, friends and visitors, with skating sessions running through to 4 January, whatever the weather. Designed and engineered by the specialist team behind ITV’s Dancing on Ice and London’s iconic Somerset House, it now offers a top tier skating experience that’s never been seen here in our Market Town. Normally only found in major cities, this time it’s here on our doorstep in Northampton. Visitors can also enjoy a fully licensed rink side bar, serving up festive hot drinks and seasonal cocktails to enhance the experience and soak up the festive atmosphere. Based on the transformed Market Square event space to bring a fresh, standout winter attraction to the whole community, Northampton Market Square on Ice has been designed to boost footfall, encourage visitors to explore the town centre, and support local businesses, particularly in the approach to Christmas. “This is exactly the kind of festive, family friendly activity we envisaged bringing to Northampton Market Square this winter. Hosting an ice rink of this quality in the heart of Northampton gives our communities something really enjoyable to experience, while also drawing footfall to support our brilliant local traders and small businesses in the vital pre-Christmas period. And given who built it, I’m fully expecting to see some perfect 10’s out there on the ice. “Instead of bringing in an external Christmas market, we wanted to champion and support our existing market traders, and this event reflects that commitment. I encourage everyone to come on down, get involved, and soak up the festive atmosphere while doing your Christmas shopping, there’s plenty to see, enjoy and support in our fantastic town centre.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC “I’m all for the ice rink as I don’t believe the town centre has ever seen an event here like this. Hopefully it will bring people into the town centre who will then return to support the market and the local hospitality outlets. There is still a lot of work to be done and hopefully this will be a new start for the town centre. “The ice rink will open up the square to many that can’t travel to enjoy ice skating elsewhere. We shall also be opening late to highlight what we have to offer in the artisan collective and the Northampton charcuterie & meats.” Steve Reid, owner of Northampton Cheese & Charcuterie located in Northampton Market Square "We are absolutely thrilled to be the Headline Sponsor for Northampton Market Square on Ice. At London Northwestern Railway, we connect communities across the region, and we’re proud to play a direct role in bringing this fantastic, festive attraction right into the heart of the town centre. We encourage everyone to hop aboard our trains, skip the car, and soak up the festive magic that Northampton has to offer this winter.” Sophie Gardner, Senior Sales & Marketing Manager at London Northwestern Railway Alongside daily skating sessions, the programme features a packed calendar of festive activity: Small Business Saturday - Saturday 6 December Celebrate the national day dedicated to supporting local businesses, with a Grinch Takeover delivered by Northampton BID. The evening continues with an 80s disco night, featuring a live DJ from 7pm to 10pm. Christmas Jumper Day - Thursday 11 December Join us for Christmas Jumper Day and meet Santa on the ice for festive photos from 4pm to 6pm. We’ll also be donating a 20 percent of ticket sales to Save the Children, in support of their Christmas Jumper Day campaign. Wear your brightest knits and help us raise vital funds for a fantastic cause. Carols on the Square - Saturday 13 December A heart-warming afternoon full of festive performances from 2pm to 6pm, showcasing local choirs and singers, headlined by Britain’s Got Talent finalists Northants Sings Out and Northampton’s own Billy Lockett. Student Takeover - Wednesday 17 December A dedicated event for local & returning students to exclusively skate in the heart of the town. Live music and performances from student bands, with students able to skate for a special discounted rate of £7.50 with valid ID. Plus music and drinks offers throughout the evening. Festive Family Day - Sunday 21 December The perfect day to bring the entire family down for, where the ice rink will be in full swing along with a full day of FREE family-friendly activities, including face painting, balloon modelling, storytelling and more. SEND-friendly Skating Sessions Quiet, inclusive sessions will run as the first session of each day on 10, 17, 21, 28, 31 December and 4 January, at a discounted rate of £7.50 per ticket with parents/carers skating for free. Santa’s Grotto will also be open every weekend throughout December in the Grosvenor Centre, with the Northampton BID Golden Ticket Giveaway running until 14 December offering shoppers the chance to win vouchers. A dedicated Christmas radio station from NLive Radio will also fill the town with festive tunes throughout the month. Skating on the Square opens on Thursday 4 December, with tickets available now via The Old Savoy website . Early booking is encouraged to secure your preferred session time. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

December 02, 2025

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service launches “Twelve Messages of Christmas” safety campaign

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) aims to keep its communities safe with an important message of safety this December. Today, December 01, marks the launch of its seasonal campaign, “Twelve Messages of Christmas”, designed to help residents enjoy the festive period while staying safe. Running throughout the month, the campaign will be sharing key safety advice every two days across its social media channels. Each message focuses on prevention, reducing risks that often increase during the festive season, from checking Christmas lights and avoiding overloaded sockets to staying vigilant in the kitchen and looking out for vulnerable neighbours and family. Darren Carson, Prevention Team Leader, said: “Christmas is a time for celebration, but it’s also a time when hazards can increase. From decorations and overloading sockets to unattended cooking, small mistakes can lead to devastating consequences. We’re asking everyone to take a few extra minutes to check their homes and make sure safety comes first.” The need for this campaign is clear. National figures show that fire risk rises significantly in December, with people 53% more likely to experience a fire on Christmas Day than on an average day. There is also a 10% increase in accidental home fires during December compared to other months. Hazards such as festive lights, candles, overloaded sockets, and unattended cooking all contribute to this heightened risk. Electrical fires and kitchen fires remain the most common causes, and the growing popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters adds new safety considerations around charging and storage. Tina Collett, Prevention Team Leader, said: “This Christmas let’s look out for one another, not just at home, but when you’re out and about. Whether you’re visiting family, heading to a Christmas party, driving or walking home after a night out, take extra care- plan ahead, stay alert, and avoid unnecessary risks. A few simple precautions can make sure everyone gets home safely and enjoys the season.” Residents are encouraged to follow Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service on social media for all 12 safety messages and additional festive safety advice so that celebrations are remembered for the right reasons. A few simple precautions, from switching off lights at night to buying gifts from reputable retailers and testing smoke alarms, can save lives and prevent tragedy. Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson concluded: “Christmas should be a time of joy, not tragedy. Every year, we see the devastating impact that fires and accidents can have on families, and many of these incidents are preventable. “Our priority is keeping everyone safe while they enjoy the festive season. These simple tips can make a big difference and help prevent fires and accidents at home.” Safety and prevention campaigns like this is a key part of Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to keeping our communities safe and resilient. The annual budget consultation which has launched is your opportunity to have your say on funding for the fire service. Complete the survey and have your say: www.research.net/r/OPFCCPR25

November 28, 2025

Abington Active Travel – tell us what you think of our plans

28 November 2025 People now have a chance to comment on proposed traffic and active travel changes in the Abington area of Northampton. The consultation, launching today (Friday 28 November 2025), seeks views on proposals to improve safety, accessibility, walking and cycling links around the Abington Park area. The scheme forms part of the wider Northampton Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP), supported through the Department for Transport’s Active Travel Fund, UK Shared Prosperity Fund and central government transport grants. What’s being proposed Following consultation in spring 2023 and a review of feedback received, West Northamptonshire Council has refined the design for Phase 3 of the scheme, which focuses on Abington Park Crescent and the junction with Park Avenue South and King Edward Road. Key elements now being consulted on include: A simplified layout of the junction of Park Avenue South, Abington Park Crescent and King Edward Road in response to residents’ safety concerns raised during the previous consultation Closure of the eastern end of King Edward Road to reduce the risk of accidents caused by vehicles crossing from or toward Abington Park Crescent A proposed one-way system on part of Abington Park Crescent, enabling new walking and cycling facilities while maintaining vehicle access for residents and visitors Formalised parking arrangements to reduce obstructive footway parking and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists Upgraded facilities in Abington Park for users, promoting the park as an important local destination. This work is particularly important as Park Avenue South (the A5095) is a strategic route on the road network and is therefore extremely busy. These proposals follow improvements in December 2024 at the southern end of the Park Avenue South junction with Billing Road and Rushmere Road, along with confirmation of Phase 2 works for the remaining length of Park Avenue South and Bridgewater Drive, due for delivery in early 2026. Councillor Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “This consultation is everyone’s opportunity to influence how these plans progress. “We recognise that people are likely to have strong views about some of the proposed changes, particularly the junction redesign and the one-way system. “We have already listened carefully to residents once, and their feedback significantly shaped the revised scheme. We want to hear from everyone again before final decisions are made.” Why these changes are being considered The proposed designs aim to: Create safer, more accessible routes for pedestrians, cyclists, and those with reduced mobility Reduce congestion and traffic conflicts around Abington Park Support healthier, cleaner and more sustainable travel options, in line with the Council’s emerging Local Transport Plan and broader active travel objectives. The consultation runs from 28 November 2025 until Sunday 18 January 2026. Residents can view the full proposals, speak with staff or submit comments via: Next steps Following the consultation, all feedback will be reviewed and published. The outcomes will directly influence whether the proposals move forward, or how they are adapted prior to detailed design and implementation. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 29, 2025

Mereway firefighters team up with student paramedics to test joint emergency response skills

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service joined forces with paramedic students from the University of Northampton for a training exercise designed to strengthen joint emergency response skills during Road Safety Week. The exercise, a simulated road traffic collision between two cars, took place at Mereway Fire Station and provided the crews and 10, third-year paramedic students with a realistic environment to test and practise their skills alongside emergency service colleagues that they would encounter in a real-life accident. Firefighters from Mereway and The Mounts used their training to safely secure and stabilise the vehicles before using equipment and tools to remove the doors and roof of one of the cars. This created safe access for the paramedic students to reach and treat the ‘casualties’. Played by the Northamptonshire Emergency Services Cadets, the ‘casualties’ acted out injuries and reactions to the incident, adding authenticity and realism, giving the students practical experience in a safe environment. The exercise showed the importance of teamwork between first-responder partners that is essential at real emergency incidents, ensuring that people who have found themselves needing help can be taken care of safely and efficiently. Crew Manager Christian Martin from Mereway Fire Station organised the exercise. He said: “Holding joint exercises in a realistic environment ensures that when we face real emergencies, our crews and our emergency services partners are prepared to work seamlessly together to make sure we keep members of the public safe. “The scenario gave us the opportunity to refine and put our skills into practice and it was a pleasure to host the students and have them join us in this exercise. I hope it gave them the confidence to be able to tackle real-life incidents in their future careers.” Ethan Kilby, a third-year student who took part in the exercise said: “As a Student Paramedic, taking part in the RTC training day really helped me understand more about how different services work together. Having the Fire service and highways present made the scenario feel much more realistic, and it highlighted how important good communication is between everyone on scene. “Talking with the crews about what they needed from us and practicing how we would deal with several patients at once, really boosted my confidence. It gave me a clearer idea of how much each service supports one another to keep people safe. Overall, it was a genuinely valuable experience.”

November 28, 2025

Successful start for recycling centres’ new booking system

28 November 2025 A new booking system at West Northamptonshire’s Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) has cut queues and received more than 21,000 visits in its first few weeks of operating. Launched across the six centres on 3 November, the new scheme is also helping to improve access for West Northants residents, ensuring traders or residents from outside of the area are charged appropriately to help meet the costs of disposing their waste. With plenty of appointments available and people able to book as little as 30-minutes before they arrive, two-thirds of visits so far have been made on the same day the appointment was made. Since its introduction, the Council has received predominantly positive feedback from users commenting how easy the booking system is to use, the availability of slots on the same day and how it has helped to reduce waiting times into the HWRC, as well as acknowledging helpful staff on hand. This month also saw the successful launch of the new Reuse Shop operated by Cynthia Spencer Hospice at Sixfields HWRC. People do not need to book to visit either this shop or the one based at Farthinghoe Recycling and Reuse Centre. “It is really encouraging to see the new booking system is working effectively by reducing queues for our residents and making it easier to access our centres. We’ve been really pleased by the positive feedback directly from residents using the sites. “I understand the new arrangements may take a bit of time for some people to get used to, but we know West Northants residents are great at adapting to changes and we appreciate and thank them for their support. I hope those that have used the HWRCs since these changes can see the benefits to this new system, especially as we come up to a historically busy time in-between the Christmas and New Year period. “ Cllr Nigel Stansfield, Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste at West Northamptonshire Council Appointments for the HWRCs can be booked quickly and easily up to two-weeks in advance . Those unable to access the internet can book by phone on 0300 126 7000. Residents from outside of West Northants and traders wishing to use a HWRC can pay to use the small trade waste service at the Sixfields and Ecton Lane centres if they wish. For more information, visit Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 27, 2025

UKSPF funding helps local charity change the future for Northampton resident

27 November 2025 A Northampton resident has shared how support from a local community organisation funded through West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF), helped her find work and rebuild her life. JM, a mum of two who came to the UK on a skilled worker visa in 2023, found herself trapped in an exploitative work situation shortly after arriving. Despite selling her family home to fund the move, the promises made by her employer sadly never materialised. “When the company lost their licence and stopped paying us, everything collapsed,” she said. “I ended up homeless, sleeping in a train station, on buses and in shopfronts. I feared for my life every day. I regretted coming to the UK. I had lost all hope.” After nearly three months living in unsafe conditions, JM was directed to the United African Association (UAA) - a Northampton-based charity that provides practical and emotional support. The organisation has received £10,274.00 UKSPF funding through WNC to run its IT and Job Club, helping residents gain digital skills, improve employability and access opportunities. Upon hearing her story and seeing her distress, UAA volunteers acted quickly, providing food, essential items and temporary safe accommodation. JM said this was the turning point in her life. “They offered me more than food - they gave me back my dignity,” she explained. “Through the IT and Job Club they helped me rewrite my CV, taught me how to look for jobs and supported me every step of the way. I felt human again.” The project provides attendees with hands-on training in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook, as well as safe internet usage, scam awareness and essential employability skills such as CV writing, job searching and interview techniques. The programme has been designed to build both confidence and capability, enabling participants to move into work or further training. With UAA’s support, JM secured a new sponsorship role and rebuilt her life by finding stable employment and her own accommodation within two months. “Even now that I’m working and living independently, UAA is still part of my life,” she said. “They helped me when I had nothing, and now they give me opportunities to volunteer and give back. I have seen them change so many lives. They truly have the community at heart.” “Stories like JM’s show the real and lasting impact that targeted funding can have when we work with trusted community organisations. “Through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, we’re proud to partner with groups like the United African Association who not only provide skills and training, but safety, dignity and hope for the people in our communities who need it most.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Anne Wankiiri, Charity Leader at UAA, added that JM’s story reflects the experience of many people they support, and that the programme continues to empower residents with skills that help them take back control of their futures. She said: “JM’s journey is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. At UAA, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to rebuild and thrive, no matter the challenges they face. Every success story like JM’s shows the impact of investing in people and communities, and it’s thanks to funding such as the UKSPF which makes this possible.” Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 28, 2025

Stay warm and connected this Winter with Welcoming Spaces

28 November 2025 As temperatures drop and energy costs rise, West Northamptonshire Council is encouraging residents to make use of Welcoming Spaces, community venues offering warmth, refreshments, activities, and vital support throughout the winter months. There are 129 locations across the area, including libraries, community centres, and faith venues. Many host pop-up Money and Wellbeing roadshows, providing advice on debt, housing, energy, and health. Residents can also access help through the Household Support Fund, which offers winter warm packs and energy-saving items. A searchable online directory and helpline (0300 126 7000) helps to make it easier to find your nearest space. Since the initiative began, thousands of visits have been recorded, helping people stay connected and supported during challenging times. Grants have been given out to support these Welcoming Spaces up to the amount of £1,500. Welcoming Spaces play a vital role in supporting our communities, especially during the colder months when many residents may be facing difficult circumstances. Through this grant scheme, we’re proud to help local organisations create safe, warm, and inclusive environments where people can connect, access support, and feel a sense of belonging. I encourage all eligible groups to apply and be part of this important initiative. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council Click here to find your nearest welcoming space. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 26, 2025

Help shape the new phase of Greyfriars, Northampton

26 November 2025 Residents are invited to take part in community conversation on the emerging masterplan for the future of Greyfriars to help shape the plans for this important part of Northampton. Since the last consultation led by West Northamptonshire Council, the plans for Greyfriars have entered into an exciting new phase as ECF (a partnership between Homes England and L&G and Muse) launches this survey to hear from local communities. ECF has been hard at work progressing the scheme and is now welcoming feedback on the initial vision. Your insights will help shape our design, so make sure to have your say via the survey by Tuesday 16 December. The vision is to breathe new life into Greyfriars, transforming this forgotten part of town it into a vibrant, mixed-use destination. This regeneration will restore historic buildings, introduce cultural and community spaces, deliver flexible work environments, and create modern homes surrounded by green space for everyone to enjoy. At its heart sits West Island - a welcoming, public open space designed for all. Here, leafy areas with grass, trees, and planting offer a place to relax, meet friends, and spend time. New walking and cycling routes, alongside improved public transport routes, will make it easier and safer to explore the town centre, strengthening connections across Northampton. We want to create a lively hub full of opportunity with more places to work, learn, connect and grow. Expect busier streets, new offices and places to eat and drink, sitting alongside dynamic cultural venues hosting events and activities that matter to those who live, work, and visit. The emerging plans include modern, high-quality homes that people can afford, whether students, young professionals, families, or retirees, enjoyed alongside community amenities and shared spaces to make the town centre busier, safer, and more welcoming. "Re-stitching Greyfriars is about weaving this part of Northampton back into the fabric of the town. We want to hear from the people who live, work, and spend time here. Your thoughts and ideas will directly inform the detail of the emerging plans. This is your opportunity to help create a vibrant, greener, and better-connected place for everyone." Glyn Mutton, Development Director at ECF Residents, businesses, and community groups can learn more and have their say by visiting the website and completing the short survey by Tuesday 16 December. “Greyfriars has been a missing piece in the heart of Northampton for too long. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring it back to life in a way that reflects the ambitions of our community. By working together, we can create a vibrant, welcoming place that celebrates our heritage while delivering new homes, jobs, and cultural spaces for everyone. I encourage residents and businesses to share their ideas and help shape this exciting future.” Councillor James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council This will be the first in a series of community events planned to continue throughout next year to help inform our proposals, before a planning application is submitted in late summer 2026. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 25, 2025

Partnership to protect Northamptonshire’s wildlife celebrates one year milestone

25 November 2025 A year on from the launch of a dedicated Wildlife Warden role at the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Special Protection Area (SPA), West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), North Northamptonshire Council (NNC), and partners are celebrating the positive impact this joint approach is having on one of the area’s most ecologically important landscapes. Stretching from Northampton to Thrapston, the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits SPA is a nationally designated wildlife site and internationally important Ramsar wetland. The project - delivered collaboratively with Natural England and The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire (The Wildlife Trust) - is helping to safeguard a mosaic of wetland habitats that support internationally significant numbers of overwintering wading birds, including golden plover, wigeon, snipe and lapwing. Every winter, more than 20,000 birds migrate from Iceland, Scandinavia and Russia to rest and feed in this vital stretch of the Nene Valley. The partnership forms part of a Planning-led initiative funded through mitigation contributions made to both North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council (SAMMs payments). These contributions are required when new residential dwellings are built within 3km of the SPA, helping to deliver the councils’ Mitigation Strategy - a planning policy document that enables sustainable development while protecting the SPA from increased recreational pressures. The area provides sanctuary for rare and vulnerable species, essential water storage during drought, and natural flood protection for local communities. Yet increasing recreation pressures – such as dogs off leads in sensitive areas - continue to pose challenges for wildlife trying to nest, rest and feed undisturbed. To help address these pressures, the councils’ Mitigation Strategy has enabled the creation of a dedicated SPA Engagement Officer role, delivered by The Wildlife Trust. Over the past year, Engagement Officer Lara Jones has worked closely with local communities, volunteers, dog walkers, visitor centres and partner organisations to promote responsible access and increase understanding of the SPA’s special status. The Wildlife Trust’s newly published first-year report highlights a range of successful initiatives. including: Improved on-site signage and clearer messaging, making it easier for visitors to understand when and where dogs must be kept on leads. Regular guided walks and community sessions, helping people discover the wildlife on their doorstep and understand how simple changes can protect it. The ‘Guide in the Hide’ programme, introducing families, photographers and new birdwatchers to species they may never have seen before. Partnership events with schools, scouts and local groups, using fun, hands-on activities to inspire a new generation of nature champions. Collaboration with dog-owner community initiatives, including the growing ‘Nene Valley Woofs’ campaign and the annual Dogs on Leads awareness programme. Strengthened volunteer networks, with local groups at sites such as Titchmarsh and Kinewell Lake becoming informed and proud ambassadors for the SPA. Much of this progress has been led through a community-first approach, using the Wildlife Trust’s ‘Team Wilder’ ethos of active listening to understand how people use these spaces and what support they need to help wildlife thrive. Early insights show that most disturbance is unintentional, underlining the importance of positive engagement and education rather than enforcement alone. Residents can also play a vital role in protecting the area’s wildlife. Keeping dogs on leads in sensitive areas such as the Nene Washlands, staying on marked paths, and giving birds plenty of space to rest all make a significant difference to their long-term survival. The Upper Nene Valley is one of the most remarkable wildlife landscapes in the country, and it sits right on our doorstep. This partnership approach shows what’s possible when councils, conservation organisations and local communities come together with a shared goal: protecting and celebrating the biodiversity that makes our area such a special place to live. The progress achieved in just one year is incredibly encouraging. By raising awareness, supporting responsible access and involving people of all ages in caring for these habitats, we are helping ensure that this internationally important site - and the thousands of birds that depend on it - are safeguarded for generations to come. Cllr Thomas Manning, Cabinet Member for Planning at West Northamptonshire Council We are extremely fortunate to have some beautiful landscapes and environments in Northamptonshire. The Upper Nene Valley is a prime example of this, and we must do all we can to preserve it for future generations in any way we can. So much has been achieved in the last year, building on previous work by both councils, and I would encourage residents and visitors to work with us, as well as partners, to continue to protect and develop such an important natural asset. Cllr Jan O’Hara, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Planning and Economic Growth More information, including guidance for dog walkers and details of upcoming events, is available on The Wildlife Trust’s new SPA website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 25, 2025

Comfort and Joy campaign: donations of essential items

25 November 2025 Residents are invited to support vulnerable people this Christmas by providing gifts and essential items to those staying in refuges and experiencing domestic abuse. The Comfort and Joy initiative, organised by West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Community Safety Team, Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service, Eve and Northamptonshire Police, seeks to provide gifts, treats, food, toiletries, and other essential items to those in need. All donations will go directly to local people living in refuges and other vulnerable families in West Northamptonshire this Christmas. These donations will be distributed between the Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service (NDAS), Home Start, and Eve. What you can donate: The campaign welcomes donations of both everyday essentials and festive gifts. Suggested items include: Essential items: Soap and body wash Shampoo and conditioner Deodorant Sanitary products Nappies and wipes Toothbrushes and toothpaste Christmas food and chocolates Unwrapped gifts: Perfume and aftershave Hats and scarves Slippers and pyjamas Makeup Toys Books These donations will help ensure that men, women, and children affected by domestic abuse can experience a moment of joy on Christmas Day. Where to donate Donations can be dropped off at the following locations: One Angel Square, Northampton The Abbey, Daventry The Forum, Towcester Please make sure to deliver your contributions by 17 December to ensure they reach families in time for the holidays. Anyone experiencing domestic violence is urged to call the Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service 24-hour helpline at 0300 0120 154. Additional support can be accessed through Domestic Violence UK , a not-for-profit organisation raising awareness of domestic and emotional abuse. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 25, 2025

Capital&Centric appointed to deliver Northampton’s new urban neighbourhood

25 November 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has appointed social impact developer Capital&Centric as its development partner to breathe new life into a key site in Northampton town centre – transforming the former M&S and BHS department stores into a buzzing new neighbourhood. The £70m scheme will see the creation of hundreds of new homes alongside restaurants, bars, cafés, and landscaped public spaces. The scheme will offer amenities including rooftop terrace, a resident gym, a mini cinema, co-working spaces, and more. Capital&Centric will seek to create an inclusive community that’s built to last, in a spot that’s primed for a new chapter. The site – which includes the former M&S and BHS stores on Abington Street – has been vacant for years. Works to prepare the site, including deconstruction of the existing buildings is underway, clearing the way for development to kick on. Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “This marks a major step forward in the regeneration of Northampton town centre. Capital&Centric are one of the UK’s most experienced developers when it comes to transforming complex town centre sites. They’ve delivered successful projects across the country, creating vibrant places where people want to live, work and spend time. Their expertise will help bring much-needed homes, jobs and opportunities to Northampton, supporting the wider regeneration of our town.” John Moffat, Joint Managing Director at Capital&Centric, said: “Northampton has massive potential, and this site is a game-changer for the town centre. We’re not interested in cookie cutter blocks, we’re creating a place where people want to live, work and hang out. This is about taking a tired part of town and making it somewhere that buzzes with life again. We’re pumped to be working with the council and the local community to bring this vision to life.” The former department stores – M&S closed in 2018 and BHS in 2016 – were once cornerstones of Northampton’s high street. Their transformation marks a bold shift for the town, turning empty shells into a thriving new destination. Capital&Centric’s plans will be refined in the months ahead, with community input shaping the final vision. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 26, 2025

A full line up of festive activities set for West Northamptonshire Family Hubs this December

26 November 2025 Starting from next week, the Family Hubs across West Northamptonshire have a full line-up of festive activities, classes and sessions, as well as a range of drop-in support available for families to come along. The Family Hubs, which have recently opened in new locations including Moulton, Upton, Daventry and Kingsthorpe as well as the original location in Towcester, will be holding a variety of regular and festive activities. These range from Stay and Play and Toddler Trundles to Sing and Story and Festive Fun sessions, from 2 to 18 December. A full list of sessions and dates can be found on the Family Hubs event page . Since launching the first Family Hub in Towcester in April 2025, four additional hubs have opened, expanding support and improving access for families across West Northants. The next phase will see further hubs established, including the Central Library in Northampton, ensuring a presence across the area and in areas of identified need. Over the last seven months, near 650 families have registered with the Family Hubs to receive latest information, updates on drop-ins and classes running, with over 560 classes being held. In this period, the Family Hubs have supported over 140 families on a one to one basis including help with; health practitioners, early years workers and much more. One to one support is available to all parents and carers of a child aged 0 to 19, of up to 25 for a young person with SEND, as well as for those who are pregnant or a young person up to the age of 19. The opening of the new Family Hubs in Daventry, Moulton, Kingsthorpe and Upton were a great success and it was positive to see so many local families attend to find out more. These Family Hubs are already proving to be a much needed and well used resource within local communities and it is fantastic that we have managed to open a further four locations since the original Towcester opening in April. We are committed to opening further Family Hubs in locations where there is a high need, including in central Northampton. This is a priority area for us as we continue work to improve the family help offer in West Northamptonshire for families, to support our children and young people to have the best possible start in life. Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children's, Families and Education Families are encouraged to book their space using the Family Hubs booking link . For general drop-in support and advice there is no need to book, simply turn up during the opening hours of the venue most suited to you. Each location will offer a different timetable and set of classes, therefore please do view the full list of classes and sessions available at each of the Family Hubs by visiting the website. For a full list of support and information available, please visit WNC's Family Hubs website. Session timetable Session Location Date Start time Introducing Solids Brackley Library 02/12/25 10am Under 5s Stay and Play Moulton Family Hub 03/12/25 9.30am Under 1s Festive Fun Upton Family Hub 08/12/25 10am Introducing Solids Moulton Family Hub 08/12/25 1.15pm Under 5s Sing and Story Daventry Family Hub 09/12/25 10am Toddler Trundle (walk with under 5s) Towcester Family Hub 09/12/25 1pm Under 5s Festive Fun Kingsthorpe Family Hub 10/12/25 10am Messy Makers for 1-2 year olds Towcester Family Hub 11/12/25 10am Under 1s Festive Fun Upton Family Hub 15/12/25 10am Festive Fun for 1-5 year olds Daventry Family Hub 16/12/25 10am Under 5s Festive Fun Kingsthorpe Family Hub 17/12/25 10am Under 5s Sing and Story Towcester Family Hub 18/12/25 10am Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 26, 2025

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service joins White Ribbon movement to end violence against women and girls

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) is working to achieve accreditation with White Ribbon UK and pledges its commitment to this global movement dedicated to ending violence against women and girls. White Ribbon is the leading charity engaging men and boys in preventing violence against women and girls. The campaign calls on individuals to challenge harmful behaviours and create a culture of respect. Chief Fire Officer and Lead for Violence Against Women & Girls (VAWG) at the National Fire Chiefs Council, Nikki Watson, said: “Violence against women and girls is unacceptable, and tackling it is essential for building safer communities. Joining White Ribbon demonstrates a clear pledge to challenge harmful behaviours and promote respect. “I want to show that the service is doing everything it can to lead by example and create a culture where safety and respect come first. “This commitment ensures that staff and everyone in our communities feel safe and protected. By addressing inappropriate behaviour, promoting equality, and making sure every individual understands their role in preventing abuse, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is helping to create environments where harassment and violence are never tolerated—making Northamptonshire a safer place for all.” As part of this commitment, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service will take practical steps to make a difference. This includes reviewing working practices, using clear and respectful language, and providing staff with the tools and confidence to speak up when they see inappropriate behaviour. The service is also inviting staff to become White Ribbon Ambassadors and Champions, helping spread the message and encouraging others to make the White Ribbon Promise. Ambassadors, who are men, will take the White Ribbon message into workplaces and communities, encouraging others to make the White Ribbon Promise. Champions, who are women, will inspire involvement and ensure women’s voices are heard. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Jim Powell added: “Violence and abuse rarely begin with extreme acts; they often start with everyday behaviours that go unchecked. Challenging those behaviours is where real change begins. Everyone has a responsibility to speak up and set the right example.” Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone also added: “As part of my commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, it’s great to see Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Nikki Watson embrace this really important cause. “Joining the White Ribbon movement sends a powerful message that harmful behaviours will not be tolerated, and that respect and safety must be at the heart of our communities. I fully support this pledge and the practical steps being taken to make Northamptonshire a safer place for everyone.” To learn more about the White Ribbon movement, visit: www.whiteribbon.org.uk/ambassadors-champions .

November 25, 2025

West Northamptonshire Council launches consultation on smart device usage in schools

25 November 2025 Young people, parents, carers and teachers are among those being encouraged to have their say on the use of smartphones in schools and colleges. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has launched a public consultation inviting people to give their views on the benefits and challenges that mobile phones and smart devices may bring during the school day. For many, smart phones are a significant part of young people’s daily lives, with their use increasingly extending into schools and colleges. There is growing debate both nationally and closer to home around their usage in educational settings, as whilst such devices can be seen by some to enhance learning and communication, they can also be seen by others as a form of distraction, or prompt issues around student wellbeing and fairness in the classroom. WNC’s consultation is seeking people’s views on these issues as it explores best practices for managing devices in educational settings, along with how it can provide further support on these issues for young people, their families, schools and colleges. We know that the use of smartphone in schools is a subject that generates strong and varied opinions across our communities and it is really important that we listen to these voices to understand next steps. This consultation provides an opportunity to do just this, for young people, families, teachers and the wider community to share their perspectives so that we can build a clear understanding of the benefits and challenges involved. By listening to the breadth of views across West Northamptonshire, we will be better placed to consider what guidance may be most helpful in supporting our schools and students moving forward. Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children's, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council All responses in this consultation survey are anonymous. To take part, please complete the survey available on the Council’s consultation page here . More information, including recent literature and research on this topic, is also provided online . The consultation will close on Sunday 4 January 2025 at 11.59pm , after which findings will be collated and reviewed. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 24, 2025

Council seeks views on traffic enforcement at key Northampton sites

25 November 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is inviting road users to have their say on plans to enforce traffic regulations at 13 locations across Northampton. The proposed enforcement will target moving traffic offences such as banned turns, entering yellow box junctions without a clear exit, driving the wrong way up one-way streets, and ignoring no-entry signs. These offences can increase the risk of accidents, and create hazards for pedestrians and other road users, and cause delays for other motorists. The proposed locations are: Banned turns Yellow box junctions School street No entry/one-way streets Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “Keeping our roads safe and reducing congestion is incredibly important. “Moving traffic offences can lead to dangerous situations and unnecessary delays. By enforcing these rules, we aim to protect all road users and make travel across West Northamptonshire smoother and safer. “This consultation runs until 4 January and I would urge everyone to share their views before final decisions are made.” If approved, enforcement will be carried out using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, supported by clear warning signage. For the first six months, drivers committing a first offence will receive a warning notice rather than a penalty charge notice (PCN). PCNs cover the costs of the service such as enforcement, equipment, software systems, staff, supplies and services. Any surplus is used to improve public transport, highway projects and environmental improvements in accordance with Government regulations. Respondents to the consultation are not being asked if they agree with the traffic regulations, most of which already exist. They are being asked if they support the use of enforcement cameras in these locations and, if not, why. The consultation runs from Monday 24 November 2025 until midnight on Sunday 4 January 2026. Anyone can view the proposed sites and complete the online survey via the Council’s website. Following the consultation, the Council will review all feedback and assess each location. A plan will then be developed to take forward the sites considered feasible for enforcement. Take part on our consultation pages or email [email protected] if you need the information in a different format. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 25, 2025

Adult carers urged to have your say before Sunday 30 November

25 November 2025 Time is running out! Adult carers in West Northamptonshire who have received the national Survey of Adult Carers in England have until Sunday 30 November 2025 to complete it. This is your chance to make your voice heard. The survey asks about the services you and the person you care for receive. Your feedback helps NHS England and the Council understand the real challenges carers face, and shape the support and services you rely on. Why it matters: Every response influences local and national decisions about care and support. Your views help improve services, from carer assessments to emergency plans. Feedback from previous surveys has already led to real changes, including: One-Stop Shops for carers in every local area. A new carers guide with local support information. Co-design of West Northamptonshire’s Unpaid Carer Strategy. Don’t miss out- return your completed survey using the pre-paid envelope by 30 November 2025. All responses are confidential and will not affect the services you or the person you care for receive. Need help completing the survey or require it in a different format? Email [email protected] or call 0300 126 7000 (option 1, option 3, option 1). Read more about the survey on the NHS SACE page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 24, 2025

Northants Sings Out and Billy Lockett to lead first-ever Carols on the Square singalong in Northampton Market Square

24 November 2025 Britain’s Got Talent Finalists Northants Sings Out and popular Northampton singer-songwriter Billy Lockett will lead Northampton’s first ever large-scale Christmas carol sing-along in the Market Square, bringing live music, festive cheer and community spirit to the town centre this December. Taking place on Saturday 13 December from 2pm to 6pm, this free family event will showcase an exciting line-up of local talent; including NMPAT, The Performing Rooms, The Nene Valley Community Band, plus a selection of school and cultural groups who will lead the ultimate Christmas carol concert for residents and visitors. West Northamptonshire Council is also inviting a local community or school choirs to help open the event with a festive performance. Groups interested in taking part are encouraged to register their interest as soon as possible by emailing [email protected] . "Carols on the Square promises to be a fantastic new addition to our festive calendar, offering residents and visitors the perfect opportunity to sing along to their favourite Christmas classics with a hot chocolate or some mulled wine in hand. Alongside the premium new ice rink and a host of other festive activities, this event will help make Northampton a truly magical place to be this Christmas. We are still welcoming an additional choir to get involved and open the event, so I would urge anyone interested to get in touch as soon as possible." Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture, and Leisure Carols on the Square will run alongside Northampton’s brand-new premium covered ice rink, delivered by the engineers behind ITV’s Dancing on Ice and the iconic rink at London’s Somerset House. Visitors can find out more and book their skating tickets online . The event also provides a taste of what’s in store for ChoirFest, coming to Northampton’s Royal & Derngate Theatre on 14 February 2026. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 21, 2025

Burning question: can you make a difference this winter?

21 November 2025 This winter, residents across West Northamptonshire are being encouraged to think about how often they use their log burners and solid-fuel appliances, and how small changes at home can help everyone breathe cleaner air. Many people enjoy the comfort of a real fire, and for some households a burner is an important or even essential heat source. The Burning Question campaign is encouraging people to think about when they burn and how they burn, because the choices made indoors affect the air, we all share outside. Tiny particles released when burning, known as particulate matter (PM), move quickly into the air and into our bodies. Over time, this can increase the risk of conditions such as heart disease, asthma and lung problems. The good news is that residents can take simple steps that reduce the amount of smoke produced and lower the risk for the whole community. Practical steps residents can take: Burn only when you need to. If your home is already warm, consider skipping the fire that evening. Use Ready to Burn fuel. Dry, certified fuel burns more cleanly and gives off far fewer particles. Keep your burner and chimney clean. A clean system burns more efficiently and produces less smoke. Get your fire up to temperature quickly. This reduces incomplete burning and cuts pollution. If you burn for atmosphere, think about using layers, a heated throw, or other low-impact alternatives. “We all want the same thing, clean, healthy air for our families and the people who live around us. Many of us don’t realise how much burning at home adds to local air pollution, especially in the colder months. “This isn’t about telling people what they can and can’t do. It’s about each of us taking simple, practical steps that cut down harmful particles and smoke to make a real difference to everyone’s health. When more households burn less often, or burn in a cleaner way, the impact adds up across our communities. This is something we can do together. Small changes at home help protect the air we share and support the wellbeing of our neighbours now and in the future.” Cllr Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR Corporate and Regulatory Services Throughout the winter, residents will see information, tips and simple questions to ask themselves before lighting a fire aiming to help every household make informed choices that fit their needs while still contributing to cleaner air. To find advice and practical guidance, visit The Burning Question webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 20, 2025

West Northamptonshire’s gritting fleet on the move

20 November 2025 West Northamptonshire’s gritting crews are now out and about helping to keep the area’s roads safe this winter. With colder conditions closing in, we’re working with our highways partner Kier Transportation, to cover more than 1,100 km of priority routes across the network. To support this, we’ve stockpiled more than 5,000 tonnes of salt and prepared 885 grit bins for community use. Our fleet of 12 specialist gritters is fully serviced and on standby, ready to respond whenever conditions demand. Keeping our roads safe during winter is a top priority. We’ve worked closely with Kier to ensure our gritting fleet is fully prepared and crews are on standby 24/7. While gritting helps reduce ice, it doesn’t eliminate risk entirely, so we urge drivers to take extra care and adapt their driving to the conditions. Residents can also play their part by reporting any road defects or empty grit bins via our website. Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport WNC uses route-based forecasting, with gritting triggered when road temperatures are predicted to fall below 0.5°C, based on data from weather stations and sensors across the network. Supporting West Northamptonshire in keeping the road network safe throughout the winter months is a key priority. Our teams and specialist gritting fleet are prepared to respond around the clock, using advanced forecasting and treatment methods to help reduce the risk of ice. We encourage all road users to drive with extra care during severe conditions and follow safety advice when travelling near gritters. Kier General Manager, Allan Rigby Residents can help by following these safety tips: Never tailgate gritters – leave a sensible distance Pass carefully and only when safe Reduce speed and adapt driving in severe conditions Report empty grit bins or road defects Find out more about gritting routes and other winter service information. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 19, 2025

Official opening celebrates transformative expansion at The Gateway School

19 November 2025 This morning (Wednesday 19 November) marked the official opening of the new transformative expansion at The Gateway School, which includes carefully designed spaces that provide a broader, more inclusive curriculum for students. The new facilities at The Gateway School located in Towcester, were officially opened this morning following a ribbon cutting event led by the Deputy Lieutenant, Mrs. Alexandra Williams and Tobias, a Gateway School student. The opening marked a significant moment, acknowledging the extensive planning, partnership working and £5.5 million investment from West Northamptonshire Council into the development of the new facilities. The Gateway School, part of Creating Tomorrow Trust, is a special secondary school for children aged 11-16 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), whose primary need is linked to social, emotional and/or mental health (SEMH). The refurbished spaces, transformed from an abandoned building, now include a gym, food technology suite, ICT and science rooms, drama studio, nurture spaces, a multi-use games area (MUGA), horticulture area, and a newly refurbished sports hall and pool. These additions complement the school’s existing specialist areas for craft design and technology (CDT), art, music, motor vehicles, bricklaying and hair and beauty. With the new areas being used from the start of this academic year, they are already fostering engagement, building confidence and laying strong foundations for success beyond the school gates for students. As well as offering brand new facilities, this expansion also increases capacity of the school, by an additional 55 places. This expansion is a vital investment in our young people’s futures. The enhanced facilities at The Gateway School are already providing greater support for young people with social, emotional, and mental health needs, helping them thrive both academically and personally. It is really encouraging to see the difference these facilities are making and I’d like to share a huge thanks to all involved in making it happen. Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council We’re delighted to have these brilliant new spaces, which have been designed to meet the evolving needs of our students. This expansion allows us to offer a richer, more diverse curriculum and a nurturing environment where every pupil can feel valued and supported. The positive impact on students since September is already evident and will only continue to grow as the facilities become fully embedded in daily school life. Conor Renihan, Executive Head at The Gateway School Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 20, 2025

New specialist accommodation service to help prevent rough sleeping in West Northants

20 November 2025 A new specialist supported accommodation service providing vital support for people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping is set to open at St John’s Halls in Northampton. The service, which is set to open this month, forms a key part of the Council’s work to prevent and reduce rough sleeping and will offer wraparound support, including help with drug and substance misuse, mental health needs, and trauma-informed care. The new 27-bed temporary accommodation will provide a safe, stable place for people who have been sleeping rough or are at imminent risk of homelessness, offering a short-term base while they prepare for longer-term housing. Residents will have private rooms with shared kitchens, bathrooms, and communal areas, supported by 24-hour on-site staff. St John’s will play an important role in breaking the cycle of rough sleeping in our communities. This service goes beyond simply providing a bed - it delivers tailored, person-centred support to help residents regain stability and progress towards independent living. This includes help with managing finances, accessing healthcare, developing essential life skills, and connecting with wider community support. By bringing partners together and offering a trauma-informed environment, this service will not only provide safe accommodation, but the personalised, practical and emotional support that people need to rebuild their independence and give them the best possible chance of achieving long-term, stable housing. Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities A dedicated multi-disciplinary team will deliver the service, including support workers and specialist leads in mental health, substance misuse, women’s support, migrant support, adult social care, and lived-experience-informed Voluntary, Community and Faith Sector (VCFSE) partners. This is a pilot service and will initially run for one year, operating separately from the nearby student accommodation. The team will provide trauma-informed, psychologically aware support to help residents overcome challenges such as mental ill health, substance use, and past trauma. The service will be led by WNC’s Rough Sleeping Support Team (RSST), which provides mobile, wraparound help for people moving away from sleeping on the streets. Residents will also receive support to: • Develop personalised housing plans • Access healthcare, welfare benefits, training, and employment • Build financial confidence and manage budgets • Improve wellbeing and connect with their community • Develop independent living skills to sustain long-term accommodation The service forms part of WNC’s wider commitment to prevent homelessness, support recovery, and ensure people are not left sleeping on the streets. It will also help reduce social isolation, prevent crises, and avoid the need for more intensive health and social care interventions. St John’s will operate as an inclusive service with no blanket exclusions and will work in partnership with a wide range of agencies, including the NHS, Public Health, Probation Service, Police, faith, community & voluntary sector groups, and local housing providers. Find out more information about homelessness support in West Northamptonshire. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 20, 2025

Extraordinary Police, Fire and Crime Panel meeting called

20 November 2025 Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Panel has called an extraordinary meeting to take place next week. The meeting will be held on Thursday 27 November from 10am at West Northamptonshire Council’s One Angel Square offices in Northampton. The primary purpose of the meeting is for “The Panel to scrutinise how the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner has discharged her statutory functions in responding to the judgement of 11 November 2025 made by the Court of Appeal”. The Police, Fire and Crime Panel is responsible for scrutinising the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for the way in which the Commissioner delivers their responsibilities for setting the budget and priorities for Northamptonshire Police and for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service. The Panel is formally a joint committee of West Northamptonshire Council and North Northamptonshire Council, with membership comprising ten councillors – five from each council – and three independent co-opted members who are recruited from the community. The Panel has the powers and duties set out in the Police, Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 and the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Northamptonshire (Fire and Rescue Authority) Order 2018. The extraordinary meeting will be open to the public and available to view on West Northamptonshire Council’s YouTube channel. The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner has been invited to attend. To view the full agenda visit the West Northamptonshire Council website Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 20, 2025

Male Role Model Awards: winners and special recognition announced following a night of celebration.

20 November 2025 The winner of West Northamptonshire’s Male Role Model Awards was announced last night (Wednesday 19 November 2025) at a ceremony which celebrated local men and boys who have gone above and beyond in their community, whilst raising awareness of men’s wellbeing. The awards ceremony, which was held at the Guildhall in Northampton was attended by those shortlisted, as well as local partners and organisations to share information, resources and signposting on men’s mental wellbeing support available. With a joint aim of recognising those who have had a positive impact in their local community, as well as putting a spotlight on the importance of men’s wellbeing, the event was a great success with a real sense of buzz, interest and celebration. The winner of 2025 Male Role Model Awards in West Northamptonshire is John Stephens, who was nominated for his outstanding commitment to his community despite his own personal challenges and recent health battle. John is known to many locally for his dedicated work at his local food larder in Roade, where he is a voluntary coordinator and leads a team of 30 volunteers who support over 100 families every week. John’s resilience, dedication and commitment make him a true role model and inspiration to us all. I feel honoured to win this award, and I thank those who nominated me for it. Everyone that is at the event is inspirational; there are so many men doing amazing things to help other men and they’re all role models for me as well. John Stephens, 2025 Male Role Model Awards winner in West Northamptonshire A special recognition was also given to Junior Anderson, a retired police officer who is continuing to make remarkable impact in his community. Through martial arts and mentorship, he has helped countless young people turn their lives around. In addition to this, he also organises free summer events at Billing Pocket park, showing his unwavering commitment to creating positive opportunities for others. John added: I was speechless when I received this award. There are so many other worthy nominees, and everyone deserved to win. I thank West Northants Council for this event, and for giving me this special recognition. John Stephens, 2025 Male Role Model Awards winner in West Northamptonshire These awards are a great recognition for those that go above and beyond for their local community and it is truly special that all those shortlisted have been nominated by people in the area where they live and work, I don’t believe there is better recognition than that. The shortlists this year were inspiring and it is fantastic that these awards can be held on International Mens Day, bringing together the importance of men’s mental wellbeing with the recognition and celebration that comes from the nominations. Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 18, 2025

Demolition powers ahead to transform Northampton Town Centre

18 November 2025 Demolition work is progressing at 35–45 Abington Street, marking a major milestone in the regeneration of Northampton town centre. This phase will prepare the site for a vibrant new development that promises modern homes, retail, and leisure spaces, bringing activity and investment back into a long-vacant part of the high street. What’s happening now Deconstruction of the former M&S building is nearing completion, with the front facade now removed. Amendments to the hoarding line will be completed over the coming weeks to support the safe movement of materials from the site. Preparation to separate the former BHS building which links to the Grosvenor Shopping Centre is underway and its removal will form the next large phase of deconstruction at the site. Preparatory works ahead of demolition of the former Job Centre. Around 7,000 cubic metres of concrete will be processed and reused as part of future development. Colemans continues to work closely with West Northamptonshire Council to minimise disruption for residents and businesses, using secure hoarding, robotic demolition where needed, and strict safety protocols across the project. “It’s fantastic to see demolition now in full swing on this key site. These works are complex, involving the careful separation of buildings and advanced safety measures, and I want to thank Colemans for their expertise in managing this process. Clearing these long-empty stores is a vital step towards creating a new chapter for Abington Street – paving the way for hundreds of homes, new shops, and leisure spaces as part of our regeneration plans. This is where the transformation truly begins.” Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council “Our team is making strong progress on site, and it’s been encouraging to see the transformation take shape. The scale and complexity of these works demand careful planning and controlled delivery, and everyone involved is working hard to keep the project moving safely and efficiently. We’re looking forward to progressing into the next stage and supporting the council’s wider vision for the town centre.” James Doherty, Project Manager at Colemans Click here to stay up to date with progress of the demolition. Once demolition is complete, the site will be transformed into a residential-led development with flexible ground-floor units for retail and leisure. The scheme forms part of the council’s long-term strategy to revitalise the town centre, support local businesses, and enhance public spaces. Click here to find out more about the project and wider regeneration taking place across Northampton. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 18, 2025

Supporting stronger families through better communication: free online courses now available

18 November 2025 A suite of free online courses designed to support expecting parents, parents and co-parents in building healthier relationships through better communication have now launched. Parenting isn’t always easy, whether you're preparing for a new baby, navigating co-parenting after separation, or simply trying to manage the daily ups and downs of family life, these courses aim to support families and carers build stronger, more resilient relationships through better communication. When communication breaks down, it can affect everyone in the household. Children, even when they don’t understand the words being said, can feel the emotional impact of tension between parents. Learning how to stay calm, listen actively, and resolve disagreements constructively can make a big difference, for you and for them. Funded by Department of Work and Pensions, the Council are offering three tailored online courses, accessible via phone, tablet, or computer. These courses are designed to support parents with practical tools to handle stress, reduce conflict, and create a more positive environment for your children, no matter your family setup. Available courses include: Arguing better – Designed for all parents, this course focuses on managing stress, accessing support, and resolving conflict constructively. Me, you, and Baby Too – Tailored for new parents, this course supports the transition into life with a baby and the changes it brings to relationships. Getting it right for children – Created for separated or separating parents, this course helps reduce the impact of conflict on children and promotes cooperative co-parenting. Debt management - Money worries can cause stress in relationships. This module offers practical advice if you or your partner are in debt. To access these resources, parents simply need to select their local authority and create an account on the Relationships Matter website . For more information or to speak to a member of the team in person about support for families, please visit our Family Hubs available in West Northamptonshire, either in-person, or via the Family Hub Website. It is important to note that these courses are intended to support parents experiencing conflict. They are not suitable for situations involving domestic abuse. If you or someone you know feels unsafe in a relationship, support is available: NDAS (Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service): 0300 0120 154 Eve (support for women and children): 07827 239496 In an emergency, always call 999 Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 19, 2025

Fire Service asks people to ensure their vehicles are road-safe this Road Safety Week

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to ensure their vehicles are safe and to take care while driving this Road Safety Week (16 th – 22 nd November). This year, the theme of Road Safety Week is Safe Vehicles Save Lives, raising awareness of how safe vehicles can make roads safer by being roadworthy, preventing crashes and protecting people in the event of a crash. According to road safety charity Brake, more than 1700 people die on UK roads every year, and 30,000 receive serious, life-changing injuries as a result of collisions on the road. Last year, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to 479 road traffic collisions, with the response ranging from simply making vehicles safe, to complicated extrications using specialist equipment. RTCs have been outlined as a high-risk to the county in Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) published earlier this year. Changes in the road and rail infrastructure in Northamptonshire has and will continue to impact on the volume of traffic through the county, which increases the likelihood of an accident happening. Because collisions on the road are a strategic priority, crews undertake training all year round to ensure they are fully prepared to respond and are trained in advanced rescue techniques, carrying specialised equipment to safely stabilise vehicles, extricate casualties and put out fires in vehicles of differing fuel types. To help reduce the chance of an accident occurring, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is supporting Brake’s Road Safety Week and is asking drivers to use the FLOWER method to check their vehicles once a week or before every long journey: Fuel – Ensure you have enough for your journey Lights – Check all headlights, brake lights and indicators are clean and functioning Oil – Check your oil levels when your engine is cold Water – Check lubricants, coolants and washer fluid Electrics – Ensure your battery is present and secure Rubber – Examine your tyres for uneven wear, sidewall damage, worn tread and low pressure Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson said: “Our firefighters witness the devastating impact road traffic collisions have on families and communities. That’s why we’re asking everyone in Northamptonshire to do their part in keeping our roads safe. “This week gives us the opportunity to highlight all the work we are doing to prevent collisions and protect lives all year round. “While we know accidents can still happen even when vehicles are well-maintained, you can be assured that our firefighters are fully trained and equipped to respond whenever you need them.”

November 19, 2025

Bravery, loyalty and life saving efforts recognised at annual Awards Ceremony

Firefighters from Northamptonshire have been commended for going above and beyond the call of duty for their work in helping to keep people safe across the county. The annual Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service awards ceremony took place on Friday (November 14) and recognised heroic work and long service from firefighters and fire staff. Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson presented five commendations to those whose efforts helped to save and preserve life, including to one member of the public. Youth Engagement Officer Ed Harvey (above), who works in the Service’s Prevention team, was recognised for his work in safeguarding a young person. Ed delivers educational sessions to young people across the county , and following a session on safeguarding, a person who had taken part in the course was comfortable enough to raise concerns with Ed that a friend of theirs may have been exploited by a person in a position of trust. Ed’s delicate handling of this disclosure then led to the young person themselves coming forward to him with more information about the perpetrator – who has since been convicted – and which allowed Ed to lobby for safeguarding measures to be put in place to support the young people affected. Green Watch at Fire Control and Moulton Fire Station (above) were commended for their response and handling of a road traffic collision on the Moulton industrial estate, where the crew successfully fought against the clock to rescue a trapped woman from a burning car. The efforts of the on-call crew at Raunds (below) were recognised for their work in pulling an unresponsive man out of the water and administering CPR on the water banks prior to the arrival of paramedics. Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson then presented an individual commendation to Deb Ashmore (below), who joined the Service in 1996 and served at Corby for her entire career, where she was also instrumental in raising funds for various charities prior to her recent retirement. Member of the public Matt Welsh (below) was also commended for leaping into action during a flat fire in Rushden , where he scaled a wall and fence to put a fire out in a flat – using a fire extinguisher he had purchased for a campervan just 20 minutes earlier. The ceremony also gave the Service an opportunity to commemorate work that goes on behind-the-scenes. Kettering Blue Watch were presented with the Hilmi Say Community Award, which is given to crews who carry out vital work in their community. The crew were praised for the quality of their Home Fire Safety Visits, as well as conducting checks on fly-tipping and Houses in Multiple Occupancy (HMOs) to find any safety issues. The award is named after firefighter Hilmi Say, who sadly passed away in 2024 , and whose wife Victoria presented the crew with their award (pictured below). Burton Latimer (pictured below) were awarded ‘Best On-Call Station’ for the regularity in which the on-call firefighters make themselves available to be on duty, and for their excellent community work. This includes a partnership with a local food bank to support vulnerable members of the community, allowing them to give safety advice to those who attend and would be difficult to reach. Ian Walpole (below) was winner of the first ever Fire Staff member of the year award, which pays tribute to the work done by non-operational staff. Ian is a fire investigator and trains the Service’s fire dogs to help him find out where and how fires initially started. And Jess Cooke (below), who works in the Training team, was the recipient of the inaugural Culture Award, awarded to those who uphold the highest standards and contribute towards a positive workplace culture. Assistant Chief Fire Office Phil Pells (below) was awarded with a 30-year long service pin, as were recently retired firefighters Lee Mayes and Stuart Oliver – while Crew Managers David Seymour and Nicholas Goddard were awarded Long Service and Good Conduct medals for their 20 years of service. Reflecting on the ceremony, Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson said: “This is my second awards ceremony, and I have once again been so impressed with the level of professionalism and dedication that I have seen from our firefighters and fire staff. “Every day they deal with someone having one of the worst days of their lives, and it is clear through their work that we have a Service which people have trust and have confidence in. “We want to provide exceptional fire and rescue services for all our residents, and it is only right that we pay tribute to those who have gone above and beyond their duty to keep our communities safe.” Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone also attended the ceremony. She added: “The Fire Service has a unique presence in our local neighbourhoods, and I continue to be amazed at the work they do to keep people safe. “It was a privilege to be able to attend the ceremony to recognise that work, and I really value the contribution they have all made to the safety of people in this county, whatever their role.”

November 17, 2025

National success for West Northants bus partnership programme

17 November 2025 A local partnership programme to promote bus services in West Northamptonshire has gained national recognition. The Partnering for Success programme has just been short listed as a finalist for the Partnership for Excellence Award as part of the UK Bus Awards. It is one of seven finalists from nearly 30 entries across the UK. Partnering for Success is part of the West Northamptonshire Bus Service Improvement Plan and is funded by UK Government. The programme is coordinated by Go Travel Solutions for West Northamptonshire Council. This scheme demonstrates what can be achieved when we all pull together with a common aim. By working with other organisations across West Northamptonshire, we’ve been able to come up with meaningful improvements to bus services in the area that will benefit our residents and visitors alike. We’re incredibly grateful to the Department for Transport for demonstrating its confidence in our plans by providing vital funding to help make them a reality. Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport Northampton Saints is one of the member organisations for Partnering for Success. It’s a no-brainer for us to be engaged in this project. We are keen to manage our carbon footprint and tackling emissions from supporter travel is a crucial step. Partnering for Success allowed us to understand how the local bus service can assist our supporters; enabling them to travel to cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens in a more sustainable way. This project has delivered us a tangible benefit in providing a business case to help deliver change. Robbie Bailey, Commercial Development & Sustainability Manager for Northampton Saints Using the bus to travel is a great way for everyone to help reduce congestion and pollution and help Northamptonshire be a better place to live and work. The programme is helping us build new and stronger connections with organisations that generate reasons to travel. We are excited with how these conversations are helping us all work together to make bus services even better. Mark Whitelocks, Managing Director of Stagecoach Midlands The approach taken in West Northants is unique for the UK. Through engagement with local stakeholders, they can help use their communication channels to promote local buses. More than this, these local organisations can help shape future bus service provision, through providing feedback on the customer experience and data on travel patterns. Robin Pointon, Managing Director of GO Travel Solutions To support the partnership, regular forums take place to update members on opportunities to promote and develop local bus services. The last event took place at Northampton Town Football Club on 21 October, with more than 40 attendees, including representatives from the Department for Transport, London Northwestern Railway, Prologis, Silverstone Park, Silverstone Circuit, Northampton General Hospital and Northampton Saints. The forum followed a meeting of the Bus Service Improvement Plan Enhanced Partnership in the morning. To promote the work of Partnership for Success and the engagement with stakeholders, a short video has been produced . Please contact [email protected] for more information on the Partnering for Success programme. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 17, 2025

Thousands of adults aged 65 and over across West Northamptonshire are encouraged to get their flu vaccination

17 November 2025 People aged 65 years and over, as well as those who will be turning 65 by 31 March 2026, can get their free flu vaccination this winter to help them stay well. Flu spreads very easily and is something that anyone can catch, with many experiencing unpleasant symptoms such as a high temperature, body ache, headache, and sore throat. However, for vulnerable people, which includes those aged 65 and over, flu can lead to serious illnesses. Adults aged 75 years and over, residents in care homes for older adults and individuals who are immunosuppressed aged 6 months and over are also eligible to receive their Covid-19 vaccine at the same time. In West Northamptonshire we are seeing an increase in respiratory infections across all age groups, therefore we urge our residents who are eligible, to get their free flu vaccination. Last winter 22% of people aged 65 and above did not get their vaccine, putting them at risk of being infected with flu and developing complications. Councillor Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “It is important that we all take steps to look after ourselves and protect our loved ones, especially over the colder months when we know illnesses spread more easily. If you are eligible to receive free vaccinations, please take up this opportunity to not only protect you, but also those around you who may be vulnerable and at high risk of being infected.” If you have not yet had your appointment, please speak to your GP or a participating local pharmacy to book an appointment. You can also visit a mobile vaccine site in your local area. If you are feeling unwell with symptoms of flu, or another respiratory infection, please contact professionals from the following services, who will provide advice on managing your symptoms and treatment options. NHS 111 Call your GP Speak to your local pharmacy by phone Click here to book an appointment and find out more about who is eligible for the vaccine. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 14, 2025

Recycling centre's new reuse shop in aid of a good case

Bins, recycling and waste 14 November 2025 A new reuse shop has opened at Sixfields Household Waste and Recycling Centre (HWRC), operated Cynthia Spencer Hospice in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council and FCC Environment. The shop will offer residents a convenient and sustainable way to donate and purchase pre-loved items, helping to reduce waste, support local charity work, and promote a circular economy. Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity funds specialist end of life care for people living with a life-limiting illness. The charity supports patients, their families and those who care for them across West Northamptonshire. Visitors to the Sixfields Recycling Centre will be able to: Donate items suitable for reuse or resale Browse a range of second-hand goods including furniture, toys, household items and more Support Cynthia Spencer Hospice, with proceeds going toward vital care services in the community. No booking is required to donate items for reuse or to visit the shop. The new re-use Sixfields shop complements the long-established shop at Farthinghoe Recycling Centre and is one of a series of service improvements being made, including all centres now opening 7 days a week from 10am to 4pm. “I was delighted to officially open the new shop at Sixfields HWRC today. It is a fantastic initiative that empowers residents to make a real difference, giving pre-loved items a second life, reducing landfill waste, and directly supporting the work of Cynthia Spencer Hospice. “By donating and shopping here, residents are not only helping protect our environment but also contributing to compassionate care for those in our community who need it most. We’re proud to collaborate with a charity that plays such a meaningful role locally, and this partnership reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.” Cllr Nigel Stansfield, Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste at West Northamptonshire Council “FCC operates 6 HWRC’s in West Northamptonshire and since this contract started we have been working with our partners to make this shop a reality so today is a real milestone for us all. Encouraging reuse through a network of shops, some 14 now across the UK, is something we at FCC believe strongly in and are committed to and I am sure this shop will thrive for years to come helping to make the circular economy a reality here in West Northants.” FCC Operations Director Chris Ellis “We are excited to open our new re-use store in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council and FCC. The re-use store will sell pre-loved items and generate much needed funds for end-of-life care. We look forward to welcoming residents to our new store from today as it starts to support us delivering our vital care in the community.” Maya Joseph-Hussain, CEO of Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity The reuse shops are part of the Council’s wider commitment to sustainability and waste reduction, offering residents more opportunities to make environmentally conscious choices while supporting local causes. Residents can donate reusable items at any of the six HWRCs across West Northants. These items are then sold at the re-use shops at Farthinghoe and Sixfields. People are encouraged to bring reusable items such as furniture, small appliances, books, and toys when visiting the recycling centres. For more information on waste and recycling in West Northamptonshire, visit the bins, recycling and waste page Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 14, 2025

Grants empower local communities to boost biodiversity across West Northamptonshire

14 November 2025 Communities across West Northamptonshire are set to benefit from new projects that will enhance open spaces, thanks to £10,000 funding from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). The Biodiversity Grant Scheme, delivered by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) in partnership NCALC (Northamptonshire County Association of Local Councils), provides small parish councils with resources to create wildlife-friendly spaces that improve health, wellbeing, and community cohesion. With a total budget of £10,000, the scheme invited parish councils with a Council Tax precept of £25,000 or less to submit proposals for projects that would create or enhance habitats such as woodlands, orchards, ponds, and streams. Each project could apply for up to £2,500. After careful review, seven projects have been approved with funding, reflecting the creativity and commitment of local communities to nature recovery. These projects include initiatives such as wildflower meadow creation, pond installation, hedgehog highways, and community orchards. Successful projects include: Scaldwell Parish Council – Wildflower and Pond Project Aston Le Walls Parish Council – Daisy Bank Pocket Park Regeneration East Farndon Parish Council – Churchyard Biodiversity Project Staverton Parish Council – Community Orchard Litchborough Parish Council – Hedgehog Highway and Nest Boxes Lamport & Hanging Houghton Parish Council – Wildlife Space in Churchyard Sibbertoft Parish Council – Peace Park Enhancement These projects will contribute to West Northamptonshire’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy by creating stepping stones for wildlife, improving connectivity across green infrastructure corridors, and promoting community engagement with nature. "Providing funding to our parish councils is vital in enabling them to deliver projects that create real, lasting benefits for their communities. These grants for smaller parishes give local people the resources they need to take practical action, enhancing biodiversity, improving green spaces, and strengthening community wellbeing. I’m delighted to see such inspiring initiatives moving forward and look forward to the positive impact they will bring." Cllr Nigel Stansfield, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste Emails have been sent to all participating parish councils, and work will begin shortly on these exciting initiatives. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 14, 2025

Views sought on a policy outlining how developers contribute to local infrastructure

14 November 2025 Residents and developers are being asked to help shape West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) new Infrastructure and Developer Contributions document, aimed at providing clearer, more consistent guidance to inform planning decisions across the area. The proposed Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) will replace the three existing versions inherited from the former district and borough councils and will provide one document for West Northamptonshire. A new SPD will provide up to date guidance in a single document, offering clarity on how contributions are calculated, delivered, and monitored. It will also explain the rules and policies that guide how developers are asked to contribute to things like affordable housing, parks, health services and local infrastructure. “This new SPD is an important step in ensuring that development across West Northamptonshire is supported by the right infrastructure and community benefits. By streamlining and updating our guidance, we’re making it easier for developers to understand their responsibilities and for communities to see how growth is being managed responsibly. We encourage residents, developers, and stakeholders to have their say and help shape the future of planning in our area.” Cllr Thomas Manning, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Planning The consultation will run until 21 December, and people can share their views via the Council’s Consultation Hub. The final SPD will then be shaped following feedback and published in early 2026. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 14, 2025

New Moulton Supported Living Accommodation for Adults Opens its Doors, Creating 30 Local Jobs

14 November 2025 West Northamptonshire Council has selected National Care Group to operate a new supported living service for adults with complex needs. The development is already welcoming tenants and directly addresses the local demand for high-quality, person-centred support. After successfully winning a competitive tender with the local authority, the leading adult social care provider will support up to 15 individuals on their personalised support plans. Thirty new jobs have also been created, with social care professionals recruited locally. The specialist self-contained flats will ensure that people supported by National Care Group can create a home for themselves, enabling them to live independently whilst staying near to family and friends, and receiving the right support to thrive within their local community. "This new supported living development in Moulton is a fantastic example of how we’re working in partnership to deliver high-quality, person-centred care that meets the needs of our residents. This facility offers a space where people with complex needs can live independently, feel safe, and be part of their community. We’re proud to see local jobs created and to welcome National Care Group’s continued investment in West Northamptonshire. This is a positive step forward in ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive close to family, friends, and familiar surroundings." Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council Among those who have already moved into their new home is Colin. He receives personalised support from a dedicated team at Wellington Support, a local Northamptonshire adult social care business owned by National Care Group, to achieve his personal goals, manage his tenancy, and develop his independent living skills. Colin said: “I’m really happy here. It’s nice and the staff are so great!” The expansion of National Care Group’s provision in Northamptonshire forms part of its growth strategy in the Midlands. With services located across England and Wales, the new scheme will be the 15th supported accommodation service National Care Group operates in Northamptonshire, with more than 280 people currently supported across the Midlands. “We are proud to be collaborating with West Northamptonshire Council to deliver person-centred support at this wonderful new service, expanding our provisions in the region. Our established partnership, alongside our network of supported accommodation already in the area, enables us to provide the highest-quality support that meets local needs. “Ensuring that people lead rich and fulfilling lives within their community is at the heart of what we do. As part of our community integration approach, we invited neighbours to visit the new development and learn more about the support we provide. It was a pleasure for our dedicated, local team to meet several neighbouring families. With doors now open, we’re excited to see tenants settle into their new homes and become active members of the community.” Belinda Robinson, Director of Development at National Care Group The new, modern accommodation has been developed by Specialist Supported Housing, with partnerships between the local authority West Northamptonshire Council, adult social care provider National Care Group, local commissioners and housing provider reducing the need for out-of-area placements and enabling people to live independently close to relatives. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 13, 2025

Money and wellbeing roadshows offer winter support across West Northamptonshire

13 November 2025 Residents across West Northamptonshire are invited to attend a series of money and wellbeing roadshows this winter, offering free advice and support to help people stay well and manage their finances during the colder months. Organised by West Northamptonshire Council in partnership with local libraries, community centres, and charities, the events bring together a range of organisations under one roof to provide practical help on everything from home energy efficiency and debt advice to mental health support and family wellbeing. The roadshows are part of the council’s wider money and wellbeing support programme and are designed to be welcoming, inclusive spaces where residents can speak directly to experts and access tailored advice. Upcoming dates and venues: Kingsthorpe Community Library – Thursday 20 November, 11am–1pm Focus: Older people and home energy support 8 Welford Road, Kingsthorpe, Northampton NN2 8AG Southbrook Community Centre, Daventry – Wednesday 3 December, 9am–11am Focus: General advice for families Hood Road, Daventry NN11 4JS Towcester Family Hub – Thursday 22 January 2026, 2pm–4pm Focus: General advice for families The Forum, Moat Lane, Towcester NN12 6AD The Spring Charity, Northampton – Friday 20 February 2026, 10am–12pm Focus: Support for families with pre-school children Annex Community Centre, Spring Lane, Northampton NN1 2JW Each event will feature stalls and drop-in sessions from local services offering energy-saving tips, budgeting help, wellbeing resources, and information about grants and support schemes available through the council and its partners. Click here to find out more about these roadshows. “Winter can be a really difficult time for many of us. As the days get colder and darker, the pressures of everyday life, especially rising energy costs and worries about money or health, can feel overwhelming, but there is help available. It is important that you know that you do not have to face these struggles alone. “These roadshows are not just about advice but also providing connection within our communities. Whether you’re worried about heating your home, managing your finances, or just need someone to talk to, these events are here for you. Please come along, tell your neighbours friends and family about the roadshows. Drop in, have a chat, and find out what support is available. You’ll find friendly faces, practical help, and a warm welcome. We’re here to listen, and we’re here to help.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council For those unable to attend, the council’s website provides a wide range of resources including access to the Household Support Fund, Welcoming Spaces, and Winter Warm Packs for eligible residents. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 11, 2025

Council secures 36 new affordable homes for West Northamptonshire residents

11 November 2025 Dozens of new affordable homes in West Northamptonshire are set to be brought into use after West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) agreed plans to acquire 36 high-quality new build properties for social rent and temporary accommodation in Buckton Fields, Northampton. The decision, approved at the Council’s Cabinet meeting yesterday (11 November), will see WNC purchase two newly built blocks of apartments from Taylor Wimpey, helping to ensure these much-needed homes can be made available to local residents as soon as possible. The majority of the units will be for social rent, with a small number allocated for temporary accommodation, supporting residents most in need and reducing reliance on costly short-term placements. The mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments will provide safe, modern and affordable homes for individuals and families, directly addressing some of the most urgent housing needs in the area. This is a fantastic opportunity to make sure newly built homes don’t stand empty, but instead provide a lifeline for local people who need them most. By acting quickly, the Council is not only delivering new social rent homes at pace, but also creating more temporary accommodation to reduce pressure on emergency housing. It’s a real example of how we’re delivering on our housing strategy and investing in homes that make a difference. Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing The homes form part of Taylor Wimpey’s wider Buckton Fields development, a sustainable urban extension providing over 1,000 new homes, of which 35% are designated as affordable. The 36 properties had originally been earmarked for a private affordable housing provider, but following the collapse of that arrangement, WNC stepped in to secure the homes at a discounted rate, ensuring they can be used to meet local demand. We are proud to be working with West Northamptonshire Council to deliver high-quality affordable homes that meet the needs of local people. Buckton Fields has been designed as a sustainable, inclusive community, and it’s great to see these new homes helping residents access affordable, modern living spaces close to local amenities. Steven Clarke, Sales and Marketing Director at Taylor Wimpey East Midlands As the homes are already complete and ready for occupation, families are expected to begin moving in soon after purchase is finalised. This latest initiative supports the Council’s Affordable Homes Delivery Plan and its ongoing commitment to deliver the homes people need and can afford. It follows a series of recent schemes across West Northamptonshire that are helping to boost the supply of high-quality, affordable housing, strengthen local communities and provide greater housing security for residents. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 11, 2025

Statement on today’s Epping Hotel High Court Ruling

11 November 2025 Statement on today’s Epping Hotel High Court Ruling from Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council. We remain resolute in our position that the three hotels in West Northamptonshire have never been suitable for use as asylum accommodation by the Home Office and that they continue to place relentless and unsustainable strain on local services. “Today’s High Court judgement doesn’t deter us from our current course of action as we continue to do everything we can within our powers to ensure the right outcome for our residents. “Having issued planning contravention notices to the owners of the three hotels being used by the Home Office for asylum accommodation we are currently evaluating them and seeking legal opinion on the Council’s case to inform next steps.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 11, 2025

Council takes next step to strengthen housing services in West Northants

11 November 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has taken the next step in transforming its housing services, approving a phased plan to bring management of its housing stock back in-house by 2027. The move aims to improve safety, transparency, and long-term service quality for tenants across the area while strengthening accountability and compliance with new national housing regulations. The decision, approved by Cabinet on 11 November, follows an extensive consultation with tenants, leaseholders, and stakeholders earlier this year, which showed strong support for the proposed change, with 60% of respondents (1,619) in favour compared to just 9.6% (259) who were not. The move will enable the Council to strengthen oversight and accountability for housing services, improve safety and quality standards, and deliver a more integrated housing offer across West Northamptonshire. It will also support compliance with the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, which introduced a tougher regulatory regime and a requirement for greater transparency and assurance from all housing providers. Under the approved phased approach, some back-office and corporate functions will transfer to the Council in 2026, followed by the full integration of remaining services by no later than April 2027. During this time, NPH will continue to operate and work closely with the Council to ensure a smooth and safe transition for tenants and staff. Bringing our housing services back into the Council will give us the stronger oversight and accountability needed to meet the new regulatory standards and to deliver the improvements residents expect. We’re grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation. The feedback shows clear support for this direction and gives us a strong foundation to move forward, focusing on improving safety, communication, and the overall tenant experience. Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities Around 11,500 homes are currently managed by NPH on behalf of WNC, including properties across Kings Heath, Kingsthorpe, and Spring Boroughs, as well as housing for older residents and supported accommodation. The phased transition will ensure service continuity while allowing the Council to embed lessons from recent inspections and improvement programmes. The decision reflects a national trend, with many councils across the UK choosing to bring Arm’s Length Management Organisations (ALMOs) back in-house to strengthen control, improve efficiency, and deliver more joined-up services for tenants. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 12, 2025

Quick-thinking Matt praised by Fire Chief for bravery after stamping out flames at Rushden flat fire

A member of the public, who helped to prevent a fire spreading through a block of flats in Rushden, has been commended by the Chief Fire Officer for his bravery. Matt Welsh, 28, was helping to convert a Ford transit into a campervan at his brother’s home in Rushden when he heard a nearby fire alarm sounding and saw a plume of black smoke rising. The fire, which happened on September 28, started in a flat and spread to the residents’ curtains and carpet while they tried to move an ignited frying pan outdoors from the kitchen. Matt was working on rewiring the campervan in the car park, behind the block of flats, when he saw what was happening and jumped into action. He scaled a fence and a wall to reach the flat and used a dry powder extinguisher to put out the fire, which he had purchased just 20 minutes earlier to install in the van. He said: “I went in the door at first and stamped out the flames as much as I could while covering my face and holding my breath. “My brother came running round with the fire extinguisher, so I quickly got hold of it and put the flames out. “We bought the fire extinguisher earlier that day for the van in case there was ever a pan fire, so it was perfect timing really.” Not only did Matt extinguish the fire but he cared for the resident – who sustained burns and smoke inhalation – until crews arrived. Matt met firefighters at the front of the building and was able to direct them to the flat and explain how the incident had unfolded. He also explained the extent of the resident’s injuries. Matt added: “I was really pleased knowing that I had helped someone and potentially stopped the spread of fire in the block of flats. “It was a mixed feeling of shock and relief.” Matt has been commended for his incredible effort in extinguishing the fire, stopping the fire from spreading to neighbouring properties, preventing further potential harm, and for his efforts to calm and reassure the resident. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson said: “I’m thrilled to be able to award Matt with a commendation for his bravery. “His swift intervention proved to be the difference between a small fire in the corner of the room and a blaze that could have potentially engulfed the whole flat and spread to other properties in the block. “His willingness to help bought our crews valuable time and undoubtedly showed the power of quick response in critical situations.”

November 10, 2025

First pilot sites selected for Neighbourhood Care and New Models Programme

10 November 2025 As part of the local New Models of Care programme, which aims to help patients stay well for longer by improving health and care services in local communities, Wellingborough in North Northamptonshire and Rural East and South in West Northamptonshire have been selected as pilot neighbourhoods for Northamptonshire. The aim of this programme is to build strong and lasting primary and community care services, help GPs spend more time on preventing illness rather than just reacting to it, move more funding into local, community based services and create new ways of delivering care which works better for patients. Neighbourhoods are local areas where health and care service work collaboratively to support people in their communities, based on each area need. It could see GPs, nurses, social care, mental health teams, voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations and others coming together to provide joined-up support. Each neighbourhood will host a Neighbourhood Access Service and Complex Care and Long-Term Condition Service and are due to open during April 2026. These areas have been chosen as our first neighbourhood sites based on a number of factors including population need and readiness to trial a different approach to providing support and care in the community. The services are being funded locally, so will initially run as pilots but if successful there are plans to roll-out to all nine identified neighbourhoods in the county which would provide additional general practice appointments and capacity. Over the next few months, we are keen to work with local communities, providers and organisations to develop these services together to ensure they are the best fit for our local populations. Toby Sanders, Chief Executive of NHS Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board The Complex Care and Long-Term Conditions Service has been designed for people who need ongoing support for serious or long-term health issues, and should support increased accessibility, continuity and holistic care for our populations who need it most. The Neighbourhood Access Service will offer same-day appointments for patients with one-off illnesses or symptoms from a single operating model within the neighbourhood. These appointments may take place in existing GP practices or in other locations across the neighbourhood. Patients who would normally be seen in general practice may instead be directed to one of the services, where they will still be seen by a GP or an Advanced Practitioner. It is hoped the services will free up time in general practice and enable patients with complex and long-term conditions to be seen more quickly and conveniently. Below is a detailed breakdown of the practices included in the two innovator sites: The Rural East and South neighbourhood practices are: Springfield Surgery Towcester Medical Centre Paulerspury Surgery (Towcester Medical Centre branch) Brackley Medical Centre The Parks Medical Practice Grange Park (The Parks Medical Practice branch) Hanslope Surgery (The Parks Medical Practice branch) Roade Medical Centre (The Parks Medical Practice branch) Denton Village Surgery Bugbrooke Surgery The Brook Health Centre Silverstone Surgery (The Brook Health Centre branch) The Wellingborough neighbourhood practices are: Abbey Medical Centre Broad Street Surgery, Earls Barton (Abbey Medical branch) Albany House Medical Centre Wollaston (Albany House Medical Centre branch) Queensway Medical Centre The Redwell Medical Centre Dr Pasquali – Irchester Surgery Earls Barton Medical Centre Summerlee Medical Centre Bozeat Surgery (Woodsend Medical Centre branch) Wollaston Surgery (Woodsend Medical Centre branch) Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 10, 2025

Advice to limit bird flu spread after cases confirmed in wild birds

Health protection 10 November 2025 With cases of Avian (or bird) flu detected in the wild bird population in West Northamptonshire, we’re asking people to take a few precautions. The risk to the public is very low, but following these steps will help limit the spread among wild birds and protect captive birds: Do not pick up or touch dead or sick wild birds If you find any dead wild birds, please report it on the Government website or call Defra on 03459 33 55 77 Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings Do not feed wild waterfowl If you keep birds, wash your hands, clean and disinfect your footwear before tending them. As an additional precaution, we are asking visitors to Daventry Country Park to stick to the footpaths and keep dogs on leads following a suspected case of bird flu there. Signage is in place in the park. Bird keepers are also reminded of the mandatory housing order in place nationally Under the order, bird keepers must house all poultry and captive birds if they keep more than 50, or if they sell or give eggs away. They must also follow strict biosecurity measures, including: Clean and disinfect footwear and equipment Minimise movement in and out of bird enclosures Monitor birds for signs of disease. People can find out more about avian flu on the Government website Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 07, 2025

Council secures maximum Government funding to boost housebuilding capacity

07 November 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has successfully secured £300,000 from the Government’s Council Housebuilding Support Fund (CHSF) to help accelerate the delivery of more affordable homes across the area. The funding, which is the maximum allocation available, will strengthen the Council’s ability to deliver on its long-term ambition to increase the supply of high-quality, affordable homes , support regeneration across local communities, and ensure that housing growth meets the needs of residents now and in the future. The CHSF is a £5.5 million national fund established by the Government and Homes England to support Councils in strengthening their capacity to deliver new affordable housing. It aims to help local authorities prepare to take advantage of future grant opportunities through the forthcoming £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP), which will launch in 2026 and deliver a decade of new affordable housing starts. WNC will use the funding to develop a strong pipeline of future housing schemes by identifying and assessing suitable Council and privately owned land; accelerating feasibility and design work on sites already earmarked for development; providing specialist staffing resources and expert advice to support programme delivery; and investing in officer training to upskill teams and enhance in-house expertise in housing delivery. We’re really pleased to have secured the maximum funding available through this programme. This investment will help us strengthen our capacity and expertise so that we can bring forward more affordable homes for local people, faster. “As demand for affordable homes continues to grow, this funding will play a key role in helping us deliver high-quality, sustainable homes that meet the needs of our residents and communities across West Northamptonshire and is an important step in ensuring we are well prepared to make the most of future Government funding opportunities and deliver the right homes in the right places.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities The CHSF forms part of the Government’s Council Housebuilding Skills & Capacity Programme (CHSCP), delivered in partnership with Homes England and the Local Government Association. The programme is designed to help councils upskill their workforce, recruit specialist expertise, and accelerate the pipeline of affordable housing projects nationwide. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 05, 2025

Revised spring 2026 completion for Queen Eleanor Interchange improvement works

05 November 2025 Completion of improvement work on the A45 Queen Eleanor Interchange is now expected in spring 2026. The project, delivered in partnership with National Highways, aims to increase capacity, improve traffic flow, and reduce congestion at this key junction. It has progressed well and was scheduled to complete by Christmas. However, new risks have been identified which require additional work to extend the subway, which is a key element of the project. Issues uncovered as the work has progressed include previously uncharted utility services and unexpected areas of hard sandstone bedrock. Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “While we appreciate this extension may be frustrating for road users, it’s essential that we take the time to deliver these improvements properly and safely. “The challenges uncovered during construction are not uncommon in projects of this scale, and we’re working hard to resolve them efficiently. “Once complete, this scheme will bring lasting benefits to the local road network, improving safety and reducing congestion for years to come.” Updated Work Schedule Lane closures on the north bridge, Newport Pagnell Road, London Road, and Mere Way will continue until December 2025 Subject to progress throughout November and December, the lane closure on Mere Way (toward London Road) will remain in place through the Christmas shutdown until work resumes in January 2026 Planned night closures (8pm to 6am): 24 November to 7 December 2025 (14 nights): East side (Hardingstone Lane/Newport Pagnell Road) 8 December to 19 December 2025 (12 nights): West side (Mere Way/London Road) Diversion routes will be clearly signposted, with advance warning signs on the National Highways A45 trunk road All work is weather-dependent, and once complete the upgraded interchange will deliver significant benefits for all road users, including enhanced safety for drivers and pedestrians, increased lane capacity, and a fully reconstructed carriageway built to modern standards. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 06, 2025

Prosecution results in Wellingborough hotel being fined £75k for fire safety failures

A hotel in Wellingborough town centre has been handed a £75,000 fine for ignoring an enforcement notice from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service to improve its fire safety. Members of the Fire Service’s Protection Team found fire safety deficiencies during an inspection of The Hind Hotel premises on May 21, 2024 – which was part of a regular programme of visits to premises across the county. On the day of the visit, the Protection Team found that the fire alarm system was faulty and may have been so dating back to 2021. As a result, an enforcement notice was served requiring the owners to rectify the faults. At a follow-up inspection of the Sheep Street premises on September 10, 2024, it was found the hotel had failed to comply with the required actions in the enforcement notice, and the Service took the rare decision to prosecute the business. Hind Wellingborough Limited was charged with breaching fire safety legislation, and Marcus Holden, the sole director of the company, pleaded guilty to the charges. The sentencing took place at Wellingborough Magistrates’ Court yesterday (November 4). The company was ordered to pay a £75,000 fine, as well as costs of £4,200 and a victim surcharge of £2,000. Scott Richards, Head of Protection at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We work very hard with businesses across the county to make sure that their premises meet the highest standards, so they can ensure the safety of both their customers and staff. We will proactively work with and help venues to make sure they get to that point. “On this occasion, we gave the premises every opportunity to rectify their fire safety alarm system, but they did not take any action to address these issues when we served them with an enforcement notice. “We never take the decision to prosecute a business lightly. But we hope that the sentencing of this premises serves as a reminder that should they choose to put their customers at risk, then we will take clear and decisive action to hold them to account for failing to keep people safe.” Improving fire safety in the buildings where people live and work is a key strategic priority for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, and our Protection Team visits more than 1,000 premises every year to help improve fire safety. Businesses can contact the Protection Team for specialist advice, and to receive a bespoke safety approach by emailing: fireprotection@northantsfire.gov.uk They can also call 01604 797 000 and ask for Fire Protection or request a visit from Protection Officers by clicking here: https://www.northantsfire.gov.uk/contact-2/

November 06, 2025

Desborough station re-opens following roof replacement work

The on-call crew from Desborough is responding from the station in King Street again following the completion of a roof replacement. The crew was temporarily relocated to Rothwell on October 1 so that the essential repair work could take place to maintain the structural integrity of the building – which was built in 1975. Mick Berry, Area Manager for Response, said: “We appreciate the patience and understanding of residents in both Desborough and Rothwell over the last few weeks while these works have been taking place. “As a Fire Service we are investing in improving our stations and making sure our crews have the best facilities in which they can work and train. “We are delighted that the work has been completed to schedule, and that the Desborough crew are now back at the Station – where they will continue to respond and carry out their important community and prevention work to keep people safe.”

November 04, 2025

A coat rack of kindness

04 November 2025 As temperatures drop, residents are invited to take part in a simple act of kindness that could make a big difference to someone in need. Coat racks have been set up across West Northamptonshire to support anyone who may be struggling to stay warm this winter. If you or someone you know needs a coat, you can visit one of the council’s main buildings and help yourself. Residents can donate or collect a coat at any of the following locations: One Angel Square, Angel Street, Northampton, NN1 1ED The Forum, Moat Lane, Towcester, NN12 6AD Abbey Centre, St John's Square, Daventry, NN11 4XG If you’d like to donate, simply hang your coat on the coat rack near the reception area at any of the above buildings. Please ensure coats are clean, in good condition, and suitable for men, women, or children. From puffers to parkas, duffels to down jackets, every donation will help keep someone warm this winter. This is a small but powerful way our communities can support one another. For many of us, an old coat hanging in the wardrobe might not mean much, but for someone facing a tough winter, it can make all the difference. It’s these everyday acts of kindness that show the real strength and warmth of our community. Cllr Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for Corporate Service, HR and Regulatory Services Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 04, 2025

Progress on Sheep Street demolition paves way for reopening in new year

04 November 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is making strong progress on the demolition of the fire-damaged building on Sheep Street, Northampton, with the aim of reopening the road early in the new year at latest. The building, formerly the Ex-Servicemen’s Club & Institute, was destroyed in a major fire on 30 March 2025, which is being treated as a suspected arson. The blaze left the Grade II listed structure in a condemned state, spilling rubble into the street and forcing the closure of Sheep Street up to its junction with Church Lane. Since then, we have worked closely with the charitable trust that owns the building to facilitate demolition. The process has involved careful coordination to address several challenges, including: Formal authorization and the timescale involved in getting the utilities disconnected safely Given the age of the building, licensed asbestos removal is being carried out in line with health and safety regulations Part of the collapsed structure fell onto a BT Openreach cabinet, severing internet and phone services to many nearby properties, and rubble has to be meticulously removed allowing engineers to safely access and repair the cabinet Whilst we will cover the cost of the work, a charge on the land will enable us to recover costs associated with the demolition and clearance. Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We understand how disruptive the closure of Sheep Street has been for residents and businesses, and we’re doing everything we can to get it reopened as soon as possible. “Our teams are working closely with the demolition crew to move swiftly and safely, and we’re optimistic that the road will be back in use not far into the new year. “While unforeseen complications can always arise with a site like this, we’re committed to keeping the community informed and making steady progress.” Efforts have also been made to preserve any historically significant elements of the building, though early assessments suggest little remains that can be salvaged. We will continue to provide updates as the project advances. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 04, 2025

Council drives forward £20m in savings to confront looming budget gap next year

04 November 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is taking urgent action to tackle a major shortfall in its budget next year, with Cabinet members and senior officers already identifying £20 million in savings and efficiencies At the start of the detailed budget setting round, the Council was forecasting a £50m gap in its revenue budget for 2026-27 – the money it spends on the day-to-day running of services. This is due to its level of funding not keeping pace with its growing population and the continued rise in demand for services supporting the most vulnerable residents, such as children’s and adults social care, temporary housing for homelessness and SEND school transport. To confront the challenge head-on and shape a balanced draft budget, the Council has held rigorous budget scrutiny sessions —known as Star Chambers — between Cabinet Members and senior managers. These sessions have intensely reviewed spending across all services, ensuring every opportunity to reduce costs is explored. The sessions have so far identified around £16m of efficiencies and savings that can be made whilst continuing to protect frontline services as far as possible, plus an additional £4m of savings from the pension fund for 2026/27. Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council, said the sessions were a strong start to tackling the authority’s funding pressures next year, but difficult choices would still be needed in the months ahead. Closing such a significant funding gap in next year’s budget is a huge task but we’re firmly focused on achieving this and have made an encouraging start. The £20m of savings and efficiencies we have identified so far through the recent Star Chambers sessions reflects the close and effective working between our administration and senior officers in leaving no stone unturned to tackle our financial pressures. All services across the Council have been set targets to reduce their spend for the year ahead and staff are rising to the challenge. Alongside our work with staff to identify savings and efficiencies we will also be looking at other things, such as how we can be more consistent in our approach to fees and charges for discretionary services. Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council We know this is our Council’s most difficult budget yet and we need to be realistic that this work alone may not be enough to balance the books. We also face uncertainty as we continue to await the outcome of the Government’s Fair Funding consultation, which will give us more clarity on the future funding we will receive. We are hopeful that the Fairer Funding will recognise that we have faced twice the national increase in population since 2014, when the grant formulas were last reviewed, even higher increases in the over 65s and pockets of high deprivation. There is a direct link between these statistics and our demand, and we hope that the final allocations reflect this." In the meantime we will continue to drive forward our work within the Council to find whatever we can to bridge the funding gap whilst ensuring we keep essential services protected for our residents. Cllr John Slope, Cabinet Member for Finance at West Northamptonshire Council WNC will present its draft budget proposals for 2026-27 at its Cabinet meeting on Monday, 22 December, which will then be followed by a six-week public consultation. Feedback will then go into the final budget proposals presented to Cabinet in February followed by Full Council for final approval. To find out more about the Council’s schedule of meetings, visit WNC website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 04, 2025

Mandatory housing order coming into place following rise of Avian Flu cases in England

04 November 2025 The UK Chief Veterinary Officer has ordered a mandatory housing order to cover the whole of England from 0001 on Thursday 6 , November 2025, following the escalating number of confirmations of avian influenza in kept and wild birds. The new measures mean bird keepers across the whole of England must house all poultry and captive birds if they keep more than 50 or if they sell or give eggs away. A GB wide Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) is already in place and requires all keepers whether they have pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard flock to undertake enhanced biosecurity measures to mitigate the risk of further outbreaks of the disease. Bird keepers must continue to follow the strict biosecurity measures, including: Cleaning and disinfecting footwear and equipment Minimising movement in and out of bird enclosures Monitoring birds for signs of disease The risk to public health remains low, and properly cooked poultry and eggs are safe to eat. However anyone who suspects a case within the area or finds a dead bird is advised to report this to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The full details can be found on the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 03, 2025

Council to consider settlement to conclude Market Square redevelopment

03 November 2025 Councillors will meet next week to consider the final steps for settling the construction costs of redeveloping Northampton’s historic Market Square. West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet will discuss a report recommending a commercial settlement with contractor Stepnell Ltd which carried out the work during 2023 and 2024 to transform the square into a vibrant public space for markets and events. Since reopening in October last year, the new-look Market Square has revitalised the heart of Northampton town centre, with events and activities significantly stepped up this summer including Northamptonshire Day, the town’s Great Fire 350th anniversary and international events like the Women’s Rugby World Cup Fan Zones. Its use as an events venue has been key in seeing a recent rise in town centre footfall, with the world cup fan zones alone attracting over 10,000 people in August and September. Plans are now underway to bring even more events into the square, with a range of Christmas activities and ice rink already lined up from next month. The Council has also seen a significant increase in investment from the private sector into the town as direct result of the Market Square improvements – with the scale and quality of the works as providing the necessary confidence for companies such as STACK to choose Northampton as their largest new operation in the UK. The budget for redeveloping the Market Square is presently £12.518m, with the majority of the project funded through an £8.4million grant from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund, and £4 million though the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) – this is a charge the Council levies on developers to help it fund infrastructure schemes. At their meeting next week (11 November), Cabinet members will consider whether to enter a settlement agreement with Stepnell over the final construction costs of the scheme and whether to increase the budget by £1million of capital funding, to cover all additional costs of the project, including the negotiated and confidential settlement. Negotiations and mediation between the Council and Stepnell have been taking place since August and if a settlement is not reached, adjudication proceedings would continue, potentially costing more money for taxpayers. Cabinet members will also meet to consider lessons learned from the complex project, which during its construction faced a series of unexpected risks and delays including significant archaeological finds, collapsed Victorian sewers and having to divert more underground utilities than previously anticipated. We know this wasn’t the outcome anyone wanted. We’re taking responsibility and learning from it. Our approach to construction contracts, risk and procurement needs tightening, and we’re already reviewing those processes to make sure this doesn’t happen again. That said, the new Market Square is already transforming the heart of Northampton. It’s busy, it’s vibrant, and it’s drawing people back into the town. Events are bringing thousands of visitors, boosting trade and breathing life into local businesses. West Northamptonshire taxpayers are seeing a return on their investment, and private confidence is up because of it. Settling this now lets us draw a line under a complicated build and focus fully on the benefits the space is already delivering for our community. Councillor James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Cabinet will consider the report at its meeting on 11 November at 6pm in The Forum, Towcester. The agenda and reports are available on the WNC website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

November 04, 2025

Northamptonshire Firefighter to represent Great Britain at Veterans World Fencing Championships

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) is proud to announce that Watch Manager Lee Robinson has been selected to represent Great Britain in the Men’s Sabre 40–49 category at the Veterans World Fencing Championships, taking place 10–20 November in Manama, Bahrain. Lee has been competing in the Veterans Category for several years and expressed immense pride in his selection. “This is the first year my age group was eligible for the Worlds, so to be selected feels like a real reward for all the years of practice,” he said. Lee’s fencing journey began at age 16, initially as a way to recover from a running injury. He quickly fell in love with the sport and competed nationally in his 20s, achieving a top 30 ranking. After a break due to a car accident and family commitments, he returned to fencing in his 40s when his son took up the sport. Since then, Lee has gone from strength to strength, becoming the national age group champion in 2024 and placing 14th at the 2022 Commonwealth Fencing Championships. Balancing his demanding role at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service with international-level training has required dedication and support. “I’m now fencing at least three times a week, plus gym sessions and competitions,” Lee explained. He credits the flexibility provided by the fire service – including sports leave and adjusted work schedules—for enabling him to pursue his passion. Representing Great Britain is a significant milestone. “It’s a massive step up from the level I usually compete at. The additional focus has really helped me improve. Without the selection, I don’t think I’d have reached the standard I’m at now.” The Veterans World Fencing Championships will feature over 700 competitors across three weapons—Foil, Épée, and Sabre—divided by gender and age. The competition format includes a round of poules followed by direct elimination bouts. “It’ll be the biggest competition I’ve ever been to, held in top-level facilities. I’m really looking forward to it,” Lee said. Lee also highlighted how his career in the fire service has helped him maintain the fitness required for high-level sport. “Lots of people stop doing sports as they get older, but I’ve been fortunate to stay fit and well enough to carry on.” To others in the service considering taking up a sport or personal passion, Lee offers this advice: “It’s been an amazing journey. I’ve made friends across the country, stayed motivated to live a healthier lifestyle, and found goals to work toward. If you’re thinking about it, go for it.”

November 01, 2025

Fire Service responds to 14 deliberate fires in a week

In the past week, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has attended 14 fires that were started deliberately. The fires have ranged in size – from small and put out with wildfire backpacks, to large and needing the response of multiple crews. Starting deliberate fires not only endangers lives — including those of our firefighters — but also ties up vital resources that could be needed elsewhere. Even a small outdoor fire can spread quickly and become a serious risk to life. 🔥 Arson is a serious crime. Setting fires can cause severe damage to property, harm wildlife, and most importantly, put lives at risk, including their own. 🔥 If you notice your child smelling of smoke or talking about starting fires, please speak with them about the serious consequences. Explain that arson can lead to criminal records, heavy fines, or even imprisonment. If you have information about deliberate fire setting you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In the event of a fire, always call 999.

October 31, 2025

Royal visit shines spotlight on West Northamptonshire organisations

31 October 2025 Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited a series of community groups and organisations across West Northamptonshire on Wednesday (29 October), recognising their outstanding contributions to the local community and their ongoing support for the Armed Forces. The visits highlighted milestone anniversaries, successful community partnerships, and the strong local commitment to upholding the Armed Forces Covenant. The first stop was Edward Green & Company, a Northampton-based heritage shoemaker renowned for its craftsmanship and long-standing support for veterans’ employment and skills. The Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Anne Burnett joined the line-up to welcome HRH and showcase local manufacturing excellence, an acknowledgment to HRH’s role as the President of the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT). The programme continued with a visit to The Bridge Substance Misuse Programme, where Deputy Lieutenant Hassan Shah welcomed HRH as the centre celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. The Bridge plays a vital role in helping people rebuild their lives and is a key partner in WNC’s Armed Forces Covenant work, hosting the Council’s monthly Armed Forces drop-in service. The tour marked another local success story at The Good Loaf bakery, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. The social enterprise provides training and employment opportunities for women facing barriers to work, including veterans and family members of those who serve. HRH also attended a ‘Conversation with Cadets’ event at the Clare Street Army Reserve Centre, where cadets from the Army, Air, Sea, and Combined Cadet Forces demonstrated their skills and leadership in action. The event, which also served as a recruitment fair, provided employers with a chance to meet the next generation of talented young people and learn more about the transferable skills developed through cadet training. “It was a great honour to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal back to Northamptonshire. Her visit shone a light on the remarkable organisations and individuals who make such a positive difference in our communities - from supporting veterans and their families to creating opportunities for young people through the cadet forces. “The event at Clare Street Army Reserve Centre was particularly inspiring, and the venue itself provided an excellent setting for the day, perfectly showcasing the professionalism and community spirit of our local Reserves. It is a fantastic facility that deserves to be better known and more widely used across Northampton.” Anne Burnett, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire The visit also followed the Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet Investiture, which took place earlier this month to celebrate the appointment of new cadets for the year ahead, and saw the Northamptonshire Armed Forces Covenant Partnership Board meeting, which focused on the contribution of cadets and reservists to the county’s Armed Forces community. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 31, 2025

Cabinet to decide on future management of Council housing in West Northants

31 October 2025 Proposals to bring over 11,000 council homes back under the direct management of West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) are set to be considered by councillors. The Council’s Cabinet will meet on 11 November to discuss options for the future management of WNC’s social housing stock and related housing services, which are currently delivered on their behalf by Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH). It follows recent and extensive consultation with tenants and leaseholders, which showed that 60% of respondents (1,619) supported bringing services back under direct Council management, compared to just 9.6% (259) who were opposed. If recommendations are approved by Cabinet, the Council would move forward with a phased transition of services, with some back-office and corporate functions moving into WNC in April 2026, followed by the remainder no later than April 2027. The proposals follow the introduction of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, which strengthens oversight and accountability across the sector. Bringing housing services back in-house from NPH, an ALMO (Arms-length Management Organisation) would give the Council greater ability to meet new regulatory requirements, ensure compliance, and ensure more resources are directed towards property improvements and tenant support. Earlier this year, the Council launched an independent consultation with all tenants and leaseholders to gather their views on the future of housing services. Conducted by Social Engine between July and September 2025, the consultation received feedback from 22% of tenants and leaseholders, demonstrating a strong response compared to similar consultations nationally. Alongside the majority of respondents supporting bringing services back inhouse, 93% confirmed they understood it would not change their tenancy or rent arrangements. Tenants highlighted key priorities around repairs, communication and customer service, with many expressing hopes that a transfer would deliver improved efficiency and cost savings. “We’re committed to providing tenants with high-quality, safe and well-managed homes, and ensuring that residents’ voices continue to shape how services are delivered. “The consultation has given us valuable insight into tenant priorities, and this proposed approach would enable us to strengthen oversight, improve compliance, and build a more integrated housing service across West Northamptonshire. “If agreed, the Council would work closely with NPH, tenants and staff to ensure a smooth and well-supported transition, protecting service continuity and maintaining strong tenant engagement throughout.” Councillor Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities The three options which will be considered by Cabinet are to: - Retain the existing model and continue to work alongside NPH to improve services. - Cease operation of the existing model and ‘lift and shift’ services currently managed by NPH into the Council by April 2026. - Cease operation of the existing model and bring services currently managed by NPH over to the Council in a phased approach, by April 2027. The full Cabinet report will be available to view on the West Northamptonshire Council website on Monday 3 November, and the meeting will take place at The Forum in Towcester on 11 November 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 30, 2025

Council service progress summary October 2025

30 October 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is continuing to make good progress during its fifth year as a unitary authority. Since April the Council has delivered a broad range of services, activities and projects as it works towards the priorities of the One West Northamptonshire Plan for improving outcomes for communities across the area. Here is a summary of some of the work that has taken place so far during 2025-26: Thriving Place This summer we hosted the Rugby World Cup, an outstanding success that brought tens of thousands of people into West Northants. Nearly 10,000 people attended the Fan Zones, a further 48,500 the matches at Franklins Gardens, 2,000 attended Rugbyfest in Abington Park with over 1,000 people at the trophy tours. The tournament delivered a significant boost for local hospitality and businesses , thousands of additional visitors also filled local hotels, booked restaurants, and supported high street businesses, leaving a positive lasting impact on the local economy - with business owners telling the Council they were pleased with the event and that their sales increased during the duration of the tournament. We’ve brought more events and activities into the redeveloped Market Square, including rugby world cup fanzone activities, Northamptonshire Day and planning Christmas events and activities to attract shoppers and increase footfall. More visible leadership improving relations with traders. There have been significant steps forward in projects to regenerate Northampton town centre with residents starting to see physical changes - demolition work on Abington Street scheme and St James bus depot. Opening of the new Castle Park. Launched a major consultation in the summer asking residents how they want to see Northampton shaped over the next 15 years. Greyfriars regeneration also moving forward with development agreement signed in June. Business grants were launched this summer with over £750k funding available – Driving Innovation Grants and West Northants Rural Grant Scheme. We hosted our first presidential state visit welcoming the President of Moldova to Northampton. Also proudly welcomed Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh to mark the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton We launched a robust crackdown on illegal and substandard Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), targeting “criminal, rogue and irresponsible” landlords. Since the start of this financial year we have issued civil penalties totalling around £120k for failures to license HMOS or failures in fire safety and property maintenance. We have also issued a wide range of enforcement notices, including emergency prohibition orders, prohibition orders, and improvement notices relating to poor housing. We tackled housing challenges head-on including reviewing the way social housing is managed in West Northants to better meet people’s needs - consulted on plans to bring NPH services back in-house, to strengthen accountability and ensure a more joined-up experience. A new Support Provider was commissioned for Oasis House, addressing gaps in the current homelessness and rough sleeping pathway by delivering better tailored support to individuals with multiple and complex needs. We progressed plans for new relocatable temporary accommodation for residents who find themselves homeless through no fault of their own. Since April we have delivered over 90 affordable homes with Registered Providers and acquired around 22 homes for temporary accommodation use. We have successfully rehoused 361 families and prevented 113 from becoming homeless, with a further 239 households being relieved of homelessness. We removed local Net Zero targets and refocused our sustainability work to prioritise practical, tangible projects that improve lives, reduce energy bills, and support local businesses. We finally drove over the line the delivery of the Sandy Lane Relief Road, easing congestion and improving connectivity in the north and west of Northampton. We launched the Thriving Communities campaign, prioritising a crackdown on environmental crimes pledging to take a tough stance on offenders and hold them to account. The first day of action was held in the Mounts area of Northampton to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve the cleanliness of the area, including removing graffiti and fly tipping. In spring and summer we conducted 963 investigations into environmental crime and in the period to June, issued 1,414 enforcement notices. We prioritised a crackdown on fly-tipping, pledging to take a tough stance on offenders and hold them to account. One offender was sentenced to a 12-month Community Order and ordered to pay more than £2,000 in costs and fines after dumping waste illegally in a countryside lane and another repeat offender had to pay more than £6,000 in fines and costs after finding himself in court over waste related offences for the second time in less than two years. We introduced a Public Space Protection Order banning car cruising across West Northamptonshire for the next three years amid concerns about anti-social behaviour and noise. We’re making public transport more accessible, reliable and convenient, introducing some extra and new bus services with Stagecoach in several areas across West Northants this summer We’re working to cut queues and prioritise WNC residents at our household and waste recycling centres by introducing a new booking system. This autumn we will complete procurement for the management of our leisure centres, securing fresh investment in facilities that support wellbeing and activity for all families We held our first annual town and parish councils conference and launched plans to develop a new Parish Charter to increase engagement and partnership working across our area. We have reviewed the Local Area Partnerships (LAPs) across West Northants to better join up community health and wellbeing services closer to home to help residents live healthier, more independent lives – supporting this work with a £100,000 Community Investment Fund. We have acted on community concerns by serving Planning Contravention Notices on three hotels in the area being used by the Home Office for asylum accommodation. In our role as local planning authority, the notices are the first formal step as we investigate whether a breach of planning control has occurred before deciding whether enforcement action is required. We have pursued fresh opportunities for youths in West Northants, with work under way on a new Youth Strategy and actively exploring a range of future initiatives. Significant work and engagement has also taken place with the Youth Council, Youth Ambassadors and Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs). Thriving People We expanded our support for families with children of all ages, including parenting support, early years activities and health activities with four new family hubs in opening in Upton, Moulton, Daventry and Kingsthorpe and published our new three-year family help strategy to support families across West Northants. We’ve cracked down on the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes, raising awareness of the wider harms through our Spot It, Stop It campaign and streamlining and improving the way residents can report their concerns to us. Items seized by trading standards include over 6,800 packets of illegal cigarettes and 6,300 illegal disposable vapes. We set out a new approach to how we plan to improve mental health services across West Northamptonshire, finalising a new joint strategic needs assessment which covers all ages from parent infant relationships during the early years and children and young people’s mental health to working age adults’ mental health and the mental health of older people. We introduced a new strategy to prevent, reduce and delay poor wellbeing and health conditions and the severity of their impact for adults across West Northants, to help improve people’s quality of live, avoid unnecessary and lengthy hospital stays and the need for costly crisis-focused interventions. We launched a new Strategic Partnership with the Shaw Trust, a charitable organisation, to deliver children’s homes, training flats and support to young people who are not in education, employment or training. This includes cohorts of young people who face vulnerabilities, including children in care and care leavers. We ran the Summer Reading Challenge in all our libraries and by week 5 of the holidays, we had a total of 4,124 children who had signed up to complete the challenge, with 67 activities and events for families and 1816 people taking part in crafts, games and other fun sessions An Effective and Efficient Council We approved a mechanism to review information sharing arrangements that will lead to future opportunities for working with others to identify savings and efficiencies at the authority. We have saved taxpayers in West Northamptonshire almost £1m across three years with new IT software contract negotiations. We undertook a review of current working practices to understand the successes and challenges of how the council operates and ensure we maintain a strong focus on productivity. We are embarking upon the toughest budget-setting process for Council to date and already making good progress this autumn – with star chamber sessions identifying efficiencies and savings towards bridging a possible £50m funding gap for next year. We’re looking at new tech and innovation to make services more efficient and cost-effective – pilot schemes using AI to improve customer experience and predictive analytics to help prevent homelessness. We worked with our Children’s Trust to complete a significant and complex replacement of our social care case management system, which will improve outcomes for children and make process more efficient. The Northamptonshire Shared Care Record is also now live and accessible, marking a major milestone in adult social care transformation and allowing frontline staff to access vital health information from partners—including GP records, medication details, and hospital/acute care data. 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October 31, 2025

Funding available for community groups to support rough sleeping prevention and recovery initiatives

31 October 2025 Voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations across West Northamptonshire are being invited to apply for grant funding to deliver community-based projects that prevent and support recovery from rough sleeping. Following the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s (MHCLG) announcement of the 2025/26 Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant, West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has secured £111,291 to provide vital services for people who are sleeping rough, at risk of becoming homeless, or at risk of returning to the streets. The Council is now seeking expressions of interest from VCFSE organisations to deliver projects that will make a real difference in people’s lives by helping to prevent homelessness, support with trauma, and improve long-term wellbeing. Priority areas for funding include: Peer support and lived experience engagement: initiatives involving people with lived experience of homelessness as mentors and advocates. Extended provision with accommodation: trauma-informed support available 24/7, including weekends and bank holidays, to ensure continuity of support. Specialist expertise: organisations with a deep understanding of the rough sleeper community and experience supporting people facing Multiple Exclusion Homelessness (MEH) and Severe Multiple Disadvantage (SMD). Community-based drop-in projects and services: inclusive hubs providing access to food, showers, laundry, and social connection, linking individuals to wider support. Specialist support for complex needs: tailored, trauma-informed projects addressing mental health, substance misuse, and vulnerabilities among marginalised groups. Move-on and resettlement support: initiatives promoting tenancy sustainment, budgeting advice, digital access, and community reconnection. Rapid response and crisis intervention: frontline support offering emergency packs, phones, transport, and relocation assistance. Cultural and faith-based outreach and tenancy sustainment: support from faith or culturally rooted organisations helping migrants, refugees, and people with No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) to access housing and integration services. “The VCFSE sector plays a vital role in reaching and supporting individuals who might not otherwise engage with statutory services. By investing in these organisations, we’re helping to meet local needs, strengthen community resilience, and improve outcomes for people at risk of, or currently experiencing, rough sleeping. “These grant-funded programmes are focused on providing meaningful support for those sleeping rough, at risk of losing their accommodation, or vulnerable to returning to the streets, ensuring help is available when and where it’s most needed.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities Organisations interested in applying are invited to submit an Expression of Interest for the Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant by 10am on Wednesday, 19 November 2025. To receive an application form, please email [email protected] with the subject line ‘Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant’. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 31, 2025

Adult carers reminded to return national survey

31 October 2025 A number of adult carers across the area will receive reminders from the beginning of November to take part in the national 2025-2026 Survey of Adult Carers in England, on behalf of NHS England. The survey runs from 1 October to 30 November 2025. Initial questionnaires have been posted to a randomly selected group of carers from 1 October, with reminder letters going out early November to those who haven’t yet replied. This important survey asks people about the services they and the people they care for receive, and about their own quality of life. The survey updates NHS England and the Council on carers’ lives, the issues they face, the things they’re happy with and the things they’d like to see improved. Every response helps the Council to understand the challenges carers face. The more responses we receive, the deeper our understanding of carers' experiences which helps us to shape the services they access and the support they receive. Please help us to improve our services by returning your completed survey using the pre-paid envelope by 30 November 2025. It also: provides the data the NHS and West Northamptonshire Council need to plan services and future needs, and for national reports creates transparency and accountability, enabling people to make informed choices about their care supports policy and decision-making at local and national level to improve care, services and outcomes for local populations and to help carers helps measure how well care and support services achieve the outcomes that matter most to people Last year, 612 surveys were sent out, with 276 responses received. In total, 180 respondents made 438 comments – all of which are feeding directly into service planning and improvements. Feedback from carers has already led to real change locally One-Stop Shops in every local area now provide information, signposting, support and carer assessments in one place The carers guide has been developed to provide carers with one guide that highlights local support services Carers helped co-design West Northamptonshire’s new Unpaid Carer Strategy and the key priorities approved by Cabinet in July 2024 Taking part in the survey ensures your experiences continue to shape policy, service planning and investment – from training on specific conditions to carer passports and emergency plans currently in development. All responses are confidential and anonymised. Completing the survey will not affect the services you or the person you care for receive. Please return your completed survey using the pre-paid envelope by 30 November 2025. If you need the questionnaire in a different language, larger print, or would like help filling it in, please contact West Northamptonshire Adult Social Services via email at [email protected] or call 0300 126 7000 (option 1, option 3, option 1). Read more about the survey on the NHS SACE page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 31, 2025

Fire Service urges the public to follow advice and stay safe this bonfire night

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is asking people to follow advice and have fun safely during the Halloween and Bonfire period. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service would always recommend only attending organised firework and bonfire displays but urge members of the public that are planning on holding their own display to do so safely to avoid causing fires and injuries. If you are planning on having your own bonfire, please follow the below safety advice and protect your yourself, your families and your homes from fire: Build bonfires well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs Ensure that built bonfires are stable, and won’t collapse outwards or to one side Do not use flammable liquids to light the fire Don’t burn aerosols, tins of paints, bottles or any foam filled furniture Before lighting the fire, check that no wildlife, pets or children are hiding inside of it While your fire is lit keep buckets of water, the garden hose or a fire extinguisher closer just in case of an emergency, and after it has burnt down, pour water on the embers before leaving to ensure it is fully out. It is always recommended to have one person responsible for lighting a bonfire. That person, and any helpers, should wear suitable clothing such as a substantial outer garment made of wool or other low flammable material and strong boots or shoes. In the past three years, between October and November, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service attended 42 fires caused by bonfires. Fireworks can be fun and beautiful, but they can also cause devastating injuries to people and damage to property if they are used in the wrong way. To keep yourself safe, always remember the following: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully Always light fireworks at arm’s length, using a safety firework lighter or a fuse wick Keep a bucket of water handy or other water sources such as a garden hose Never go back to a firework once lit, put them in your pocket or throw them Always read the instructions for safe disposal of fireworks. After a display, collect used fireworks with care by dousing and then submerging them in water for 24-48 hrs, remember to SOAK IT, BAG IT, BIN IT. Darren Carson, Prevention Team Leader at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “While the number of fires we attend during this period is reducing year by year, we still want to urge people to follow safety advice to keep themselves, their families and their homes safe. “It is a fun time of year and we want people to enjoy fireworks and bonfires, but we really encourage members of the public to only go to an official display and avoid having them in back gardens. “If you do have your own display or bonfire and it gets out of control, or you see any unattended fires, please always call 999 and ask for the Fire Service.”

October 30, 2025

Journalism students scoop gold award for local elections coverage

30 October 2025 Student journalists from the University of Northampton who covered West Northamptonshire Council’s elections have won a national radio award for their coverage. The students, representing Northampton’s local radio NLive Radio, won the Gold award for Elections & Political Coverage of the Year at the 2025 Community Radio Awards. The award-winning ‘VOTE WNC’ entry was for the coverage of the West Northamptonshire local elections count back in May which saw Multimedia Journalism and Multimedia Sports Journalism students from the University of Northampton produce and present a 6 hour show that was broadcast on NLive Radio alongside rolling social media coverage which declared when Reform UK had taken control of the council. “On the train journey over, the six of us were constantly hoping that we were going to win gold. Even in the five minutes before heading into the venue, we all had our fingers crossed. But when it was announced, we sat for a couple of seconds in shock because it felt very surreal. “Covering the election was a lot of hard work. We sat in small groups doing as much research on different wards, councillors and political parties as possible, so we had everything covered. And we were so glad we did. It was so much fun. I cannot wait to do more live coverages.” BA Multimedia Journalism student Justine Sawford Working under the guidance of University of Northampton Senior Lecturers in Journalism, Kate Ironside, Hilary Scott, Adrian Warner and Station Manager Rebecca Steers, the student team split roles to ensure full coverage. Some reporters were based at the count itself, while others supported the council’s media team during one of their busiest times of the year. “I’d like to congratulate all the students on winning this well-deserved national award. Their hard work at the elections count was apparent to everyone who attended, not just their excellent reporting on the results as they came in but also in lending their support to our media team on what proved to be an extremely busy day and eventful day and evening.” Anna Earnshaw, Returning Officer for West Northamptonshire’s elections and WNC Chief Executive “It’s always wonderful to hear of young people being recognised with a national award for their commitments to their studies and academic development. Their contribution and support to the media team at the election count was most welcome, and as a council we will absolutely continue to encourage young people to thrive to become leaders in their field.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of WNC "This was a fabulous opportunity for the students to put their learning into practice. By delivering a comprehensive, engaging live programme of the results of this extraordinary election they also performed a major public service to the local audience. This award was well deserved" Senior Lecturer Kate Ironside “This is a prime example of the partnership work we do with the University of Northampton, providing opportunities for students to get involved in real world radio broadcasting and journalism experiences, especially at a time of momentous political change in the UK” Station Manager Rebecca Steers The awards ceremony was held in Bradford, alongside the UK Community Radio Network conference, and the award was presented by representatives from the national Radio News Hub The Community Radio Awards were setup to celebrate, promote, and champion all the work of the Community Radio Sector, it’s hundreds of stations serving local, diverse and communities of interest or identity and the thousands of volunteers who give up hours and hours a week to serve their audiences. NLive Radio continues its coverage of local politics with a weekly politics show on Sundays from 9am, as well as regular news on its website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 30, 2025

Successful prosecution sends clear message to those who dispose of waste illegally

30 October 2025 A man who illegally dumped garden waste on a road in Northampton has been ordered to pay more than £1,300 in fines and costs. Mr Joseph Paul Smith of Randall Road, Kingsley, Northampton appeared at Northampton Magistrates Court on 21 October 2025, where he pled guilty to the unlawful deposit of controlled waste on Banbury Lane, Northampton, on 9 September 2024, in breach of Section 33(1)(a) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Following an interview with West Northamptonshire Council officers, Smith admitted to the offence and was issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). However, he failed to pay the fine, prompting the Council to pursue prosecution. The offender failed to attend his initial court hearing on 26 August 2025, resulting in a warrant for his arrest. He was subsequently arrested and appeared in court on 11 September, with the case adjourned to 21 October, where he entered a guilty plea. West Northamptonshire Council was represented by Scott Howkins at the hearing, with the Magistrates imposing a £200 fine, an £80 victim surcharge, and £1,100 in costs, totalling £1,380. “Fly-tipping is a serious environmental crime that blights our communities and costs taxpayers thousands of pounds each year. We will not hesitate to take enforcement action against those who choose to dump waste illegally. This prosecution sends a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated and that we’re fully committed to cracking down on those who commit offences.” Cllr Andrew Last, WNC’s Cabinet Member HR, Corporate and Regulatory Services Residents are reminded that they can report fly-tipping, littering and other environmental crime on the West Northamptonshire Council app or via our Report page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 29, 2025

Fire Service’s early intervention course helps build confidence and resilience in young students

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has delivered a course teaching vital skills to help young people with special educational needs in their life and career. Members of the Fire Service’s Prevention Team invited sixth form students from The Bee Hive in Kingsthorpe, which sits under Northgate School Academy Trust, to a four-day early intervention course at the fire stations in Mereway and The Mounts. [embedded content] The bespoke course focused on employability, giving educational sessions on health and safety, PPE, uniform and first aid – but also using fire training exercises to increase confidence in those taking part. These included a mock scenario where they rescued someone from a road traffic collision, having to communicate with each other to ensure the person was rescued from the vehicle, received the right first aid, and was stretchered away to an ambulance. The Bee Hive is for young adults with learning difficulties who are not yet ready for work or college and require access to a curriculum that develops their personal and social skills, their understanding of the world of work and adulthood. Michelle Bates (pictured below) is a Youth Engagement Officer for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and helped to deliver the early intervention course alongside her colleagues in the Prevention Team. Michelle said: “Early intervention is so important for us, and we’ve done several courses like these with young people across the county. “The idea is to improve their communication and resilience, which are key skills they will need in both the workplace, but also their personal lives. It was also an opportunity to give them safety tips which they can use to keep themselves safe. “We were delighted to work with The Bee Hive, and we hope their students found the course beneficial.” Lilly, a 16-year-old student at The Bee Hive, said: “I really enjoyed the course and learned a lot of things that I can use when I’m going for a job or in my everyday life – like health and safety, communication and teamwork.” Jaime Norris, Employability Manager at The Bee Hive, added: “The Youth Engagement team has become an invaluable partner in our community. “For the second year, they’ve delivered a course that not only meets the unique needs of our students but also strengthens the values we share – preparing young people for adulthood and employability. “This program blends practical life skills with teamwork, leadership, and communication, creating opportunities that ripple beyond the classroom. It’s a course recommended by peers and embraced by families, and we look forward to growing this partnership year after year.”

October 28, 2025

Spring lane primary school celebrates Digital Innovation Award following innovative outdoor learning pilot

28 October 2025 Spring Lane Primary School has been awarded with the Digital Innovation Award by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), celebrating its creative use of technology to enhance health and wellbeing outcomes as part of its journey to achieving the Gold Healthy Schools Award. The accolade follows a successful year-long pilot project, delivered in collaboration with WNC’s Public Health and Digital Technology and Innovations teams, which aimed to increase physical activity during lessons. Spring Lane and Billing Brook SEN School trialled an innovative orienteering-based learning platform that transformed traditional classroom subjects, such as Maths, Science, and English, into dynamic outdoor experiences. Students navigated their school grounds in teams, solving puzzles and answering curriculum-based questions, all while being physically active. The results were overwhelmingly positive, with both schools choosing to extend the programme independently beyond the pilot phase. Spring Lane also hosted an open day with Enrich Education, inviting other schools within its academy trust to explore the benefits of active learning. “This approach has shown that movement and learning can go hand-in-hand. Throughout the pilot our pupils have been more engaged, more active, and more connected to their learning environment, not just during PE or break time, but throughout the school day. We are delighted that we have also been awarded the Food for Life (FFL) Bronze Award, which further cements our commitment to promoting healthy food education and culture within our school.” Cath Bates, Personal Development Lead at Spring Lane Primary School “Spring Lane’s achievement is a brilliant example of how innovation in education can support healthier lifestyles. By embedding physical activity into everyday learning, they’re helping children develop healthy habits that support both physical and mental wellbeing. We’re proud to see schools like Spring Lane leading the way.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council “This project reflects our vision of making West Northamptonshire a truly child-friendly place. It’s inspiring to see schools embracing creative approaches that not only improve educational outcomes but also support the holistic development of every child.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education Spring Lane received both its Gold Healthy Schools Award and Digital Innovation Award during a special assembly on Friday, 24 October. The Healthy Schools Award is part of West Northamptonshire Council’s Healthy Schools Service, which supports schools in creating happier, healthier environments for pupils, staff, and the wider community. The programme offers free resources, workshops, and guidance to help schools embed wellbeing into their culture. Schools can work towards bronze, silver, and gold standards, with gold recognising sustained impact and long-term commitment to health and wellbeing. For more information on the Healthy Schools Programme, visit West Northamptonshire Council’s Healthy Schools Service . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

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