Revolution Radio - Local News

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?

October 27, 2025

Thousands enjoy day of community, culture and civic pride for Northamptonshire Day

27 October 2025 Thousands of residents and visitors joined celebrations in Northampton Market Square on Saturday (25 October) for the inaugural Northamptonshire Day event, bringing the heart of Northampton to life in a showcase of civic pride and demonstrating why Northamptonshire is the perfect place to live, work, visit, invest, and thrive. Organised by West and North Northamptonshire Councils in partnership with Discover Northamptonshire and partners, the full-day event featured live music, family-friendly activities, flavour zones, heritage experiences and more - all designed to celebrate the people, heritage, culture and businesses that make our county special. From the moment festivities began at 1pm until the evening’s headline performance by 80s Live!, visitors enjoyed a packed programme of fun and entertainment. Highlights included watching the circus entertainers and magicians, feeding the alpacas and a pumpkin patch in the Family Zone; local produce and live cooking demonstrations in the Savour the Flavour Zone; and heritage re-enactments, storytelling and traditional crafts in the Culture and Heritage Zones. “The event is really good – it reminds me of the old Northamptonshire Day events we used to attend. It’s been very good for trade. Lovely atmosphere, lots of people, and lots of families – that’s just what you need.” An attendee, Rachel of Northampton “I was very keen that we delivered this event to celebrate our county and show our dedication to the whole community. To see so many people come together in Northampton Market Square and join us to celebrate everything that makes Northamptonshire unique, is fantastic. “This event has shown that when we bring together our heritage, culture, businesses, and people, we can create something very special. This event is a testament to the fact that Northamptonshire is a must-visit and must-invest destination. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and excited for what’s next – particularly our largescale ice rink and festive activities that we have planned this December.” WNC’s Leader Cllr Mark Arnull The success of this event was thanks to strong support from sponsors including Wilson Browne Solicitors, Silverstone Park, Northants Sings Out, Northampton College, Billing Aquadrome, Crockett & Jones, Silverstone Circuit, Hilton Northampton, Made in Northamptonshire, EMW Law, Delapré Abbey, University of Northampton, the South Midlands Local Skills Improvement Plan, Northampton BID and Discover Northamptonshire. Next year’s event has already been agreed to take place in Kettering, North Northamptonshire. “As someone who was born and has lived all my life in the county, it was an extremely proud day for me personally but also for our wonderful county. “It was amazing to see everyone come together for such an exciting event and celebrate all that makes Northamptonshire great - the atmosphere was exceptional. We’re determined to put Northamptonshire on the map, somewhere residents are proud to call home and events like this really help. “Alongside partners, I am so pleased with everything we achieved and look forward to welcoming the Northamptonshire Day celebrations to Kettering in 2026.” Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council Residents and businesses are now invited to share their thoughts on the event by taking part in a short survey. Entrees will be in with the chance of winning some amazing prizes, including weekend tickets for MotoGP 2026, a trip to Mini Meadows Farm’s Christmas Experience, £300 vouchers for Crockett & Jones shoes, and tickets to the Northampton Ice Rink. Take part via the Council’s consultation hub . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 27, 2025

Turn your big idea into a business at Northamptonshire’s Start-Up Day 2025

27 October 2025 Have a business idea but don’t know where to start? The Business & Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC) Northamptonshire is excited to bring back its annual Start-Up Day, taking place on Monday 17 November 2025 at Northamptonshire Central Library. Held as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week , this inspiring event is packed with opportunities to learn, network, and hear from successful local entrepreneurs. Whether you’re ready to launch or still developing your business idea, #BIPCStartUpDay 2025 offers the knowledge, resources, and community support to help you build your business in Northamptonshire. Start-Up Day is led by the BIPC at the British Library , with BIPCs across the UK delivering events on the same day, creating a nationwide celebration of entrepreneurship. Join us anytime between 9.30am and 2.30pm to connect with like-minded people and discover the wealth of support available to entrepreneurs across the county. Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy a programme of inspirational talks, practical workshops, and success stories from local business owners who have turned their ideas into thriving enterprises. Highlights include: From start-up to success with Stuart Thomas of Medi8 Therapy: Stuart shares his personal journey and insights into building a successful business. Start-up stars panel: Hear from BIPC Northamptonshire’s Build Your Business grant winners Julia Williams (Antler and Rose), Jo Whight (Red Lotus Consultancy), and Clare Wood (Little Bear), as they discuss their start-up journeys. Moderated by Ruth Roan from the South Midlands Growth Hub. Introduction to GrantFinder with Matt Godfrey of Idox: Learn how to use this powerful tool to identify funding opportunities for your business. Brand evolution for start-ups with Marie-Louise O’Neill of Lovely Evolution: Gain practical tips for developing your brand identity and knowing when to evolve. Mini workshop: From Stressed to Steady with Susan Liverman of The Kindful: Discover simple, effective techniques for managing emotions and staying balanced as a business owner. These sessions offer practical, real-world advice from entrepreneurs who’ve been there, providing the tools and inspiration to help you succeed. Alongside the talks, a business support marketplace will showcase local organisations offering free advice, resources, and guidance for new and growing businesses. Confirmed participants include: West Northamptonshire Council Economic Growth Team North Northamptonshire Council Economic Growth Team Building Business Consultancy NNBN Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) South Midlands Growth Hub First Enterprise Lucidity IP Lovely Evolution Gareth Jones, Entrepreneur in Residence Franks & Co Florence and James Marketing “Entrepreneurs and small businesses are at the heart of our local economy, bringing energy, creativity, and opportunity to our communities. “Start-Up Day is a fantastic way for anyone with a business idea to take that first step, access expert advice, and connect with others on the same journey. I’d encourage anyone thinking about starting or growing a business to come along and see what support is available right here in Northamptonshire.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council “Supporting entrepreneurship is vital to the growth and resilience of the economy across the whole of Northamptonshire. Start-Up Day brings together the tools, expertise and community spirit that new businesses need to thrive. “We’re proud to continue to support businesses starting out and I would encourage anyone with a fledgling business idea to come along and explore the opportunities available.” Cllr Jan O’Hara, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Planning and Economic Growth Secure your free place today via Eventbrite and take your first step toward building a successful business in Northamptonshire. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 22, 2025

West Northants set to come together in Remembrance

Community, safety and emergencies 22 October 2025 Communities across West Northamptonshire will come together in Remembrance in November, to honour those who served and remember their sacrifice. There are a number of events taking place across West Northants for Remembrance Sunday on 9 November, including: Northampton: Remembrance Sunday will be marked in Northampton with a large military parade stepping off from the Market Square at 09:30am. This will be followed by the Divine Service at All Saint’s Church at 10am, and a wreath-laying ceremony in the Memorial Garden of the church. The 2-minute silence will be observed at 11am, and the memorial garden will remain open for the public to lay wreaths and pay their respects. At around 11:45am the parade will re-assemble. Find out more on the Northampton Town Council website or the Northampton Royal British Legion website Daventry: The Daventry Remembrance Sunday parade will step off at 10:30am from Daventry High Street (Outside Argos) and will proceed to the War Memorial for the Remembrance Service. A Church service will follow at Holy Cross Church at 11:30am. On Armistice Day, Tuesday 11 November, a short service will be held at 11am at the top of Sheaf Street (outside the Post Office). Find out more on the Daventry Town Council website Towcester: For those wishing to attend this year’s Remembrance Sunday service at St Lawrence Church, it is requested that you are seated in the Church by 10:30am for a 10:50am service. Brackley: In Brackley, Remembrance Sunday will be marked with a parade marching from Winchester House, down the High Street to Brackley War Memorial at 2:30pm. At 3pm, a service of Remembrance will be held at the War Memorial, followed by wreath-laying. Find out more on the Brackley Town Council website Brixworth: Brixworth will mark Remembrance Sunday with a walk departing from the Library and Community Centre at 10am, proceeding to All Saints’ Church for an outdoor family service at 10:30am. The 2-minute silence will be marked at 11am at the Memorial, and laying of wreaths will follow. Find out more on the Brixworth Parish Council website East Hunsbury: East Hunsbury Remembers will be held in Grangewood Park by the Memorial Benches. People are encouraged to gather at 10:30am for a short service and community wreath-laying. People are also encouraged to add poppies to the displays which are dotted around the open spaces and parks. Find out more on the East Hunsbury Parish Council website If your community is hosting a Remembrance Day event and you’d like it to be added to our event list, please let us know on [email protected] Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 22, 2025

New Anti-Social Behaviour officers make a positive impact in Northampton town centre

22 October 2025 From left to right: Scott Potter - Police Community Support Officer (PCSO), Gary Crook - Community Safety Operations Manager, PC Adam Perch, Cheryl Richards - Anti Social Behaviour Enforcement Officer, Danielle Stone - Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Cr Residents in Northampton Town Centre will see two new Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Officers on the streets as part of a new 12-month initiative launched by West Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone. Funded through the Government’s ASB Action Plan via the OFPCC, the initiative provides a visible, uniformed presence within the Northampton Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) area. The new ASB officers are on duty six days a week, including weekends when footfall in the town is at its highest, engaging with the public and local businesses. The officers offer advice and guidance on ASB-related issues, with a particular focus on engaging with young people across our area. Their role aims to discourage individuals who are involved in low-level crime and anti-social behaviour towards positive activities and support organisations. Officers will work both independently and alongside the Local Central Neighbourhood Policing Team. In addition to providing support and helping people to access local services and activities in their local area, the ABS officers are authorised to enforce the PSPO. While their approach prioritises education and early intervention, they are empowered to issue Fixed Penalty Notices where necessary, ensuring that the town centre remains a safe and welcoming space for all. Early feedback from residents and businesses has been positive and encouraging. Many have reported feeling safer and more confident in the town centre, with increased willingness to share intelligence and report incidents directly to the officers. “It is great to be working closely with the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone on this initiative, focusing on making Northampton Town Centre a safer and more inviting place to all, and our two new ASB officers play a huge part in achieving this. Over the next 12 months they will be working together with the local neighbourhood policing team and businesses to help reduce anti-social behaviour in the town centre.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Safety at West Northamptonshire Council “I want our town centres to be safe places that are welcoming to everyone. Anti-social behaviour has an enormous impact on people’s lives and livelihoods and funding these officers is one way that we can show we have listened to concerns about the issues that concern people in Northampton town centre and are tackling them head on. I am so pleased to be working in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council to make a difference to our county town.” Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone “We have developed a really good relationship with our ASB officers and their presence in the town has already resulted in positive feedback from local residents and businesses. “Making our town centre a nice place to live, visit and work in, is a priority for us on the Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team, and we’re grateful to work alongside partners with exactly the same aim.” Nic Davis-Lyons, Neighbourhood Policing Inspector at Northamptonshire Police Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 23, 2025

Traffic calming measures in Boughton to pave the way for Northampton North-West Relief Road opening

23 October 2025 Part of the North-West Relief Road West Northamptonshire Council has started work on traffic calming work in Boughton as a key step toward the opening the Northampton North-West Relief Road. These measures are a required part of the planning conditions for the wider scheme and needed to be completed ahead of the road opening to help prepare communities for the changes ahead. The Northampton North-West Relief Road was designed to support major housing developments in the area including Buckton Fields, Dallington Grange and Northampton West. It will connect Harlestone Road (A428) with Welford Road (A5199), creating a new route that will also help ease congestion in other parts of Northampton and nearby villages. Construction of the road was delivered in phases. Persimmon Homes were responsible for the Harlestone Road to Grange Farm section and West Northamptonshire Council built the remaining stretch, including a bridge over the railway and a new river crossing near Welford Road. Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: "People who’ve pointed out that this road was created to serve housing developments in the area are absolutely right. “It’s also true that until all of that housing development is delivered, the road will help ease congestion in other parts of Northampton. This new road will also support economic growth. “The traffic calming measures in Boughton are an important step in making sure the surrounding communities are protected from knock-on effects." Work in Boughton is expected to complete before the end of this year and the North-West Relief Road is scheduled to open by the new year. Further updates will be provided as the project progresses. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 23, 2025

Work set to start in New Year on exciting new leisure development in Northampton

23 October 2025 How the new STACK development might look Plans to transform Northampton's Market Walk into a leading food and leisure destination in the heart of the town centre are set to move forward in the new year. West Northamptonshire Council and STACK are committed to delivering the exciting new venue off the Market Square, with work expected to begin on site in January, and projected completion in winter 2026. Earlier timelines initially set out for the scheme shifted due to a number of technical and preparatory steps for delivering the development taking longer to complete than anticipated, however work on transforming the site is now set to progress. Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC said: "As with any major regeneration scheme, dates are always indicative and subject to change. Both teams are working hard to bring this project forward, and we’re confident that STACK Northampton will be worth the wait. "This development will create a vibrant destination for food, drink, live entertainment and events, and play a key role in the wider regeneration of the town centre. We look forward to sharing further updates as the scheme progresses." Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 23, 2025

Smoking

The most common cause of fire death in the home is smoking. If you or someone in your home smokes, there are a number of simple steps you can take to prevent a fire from happening in your home: Fire safety tips for smokers Ensure you have a working smoke alarm on every floor of your home (more advice on smoke alarms can be found on our smoke and carbon monoxide alarms page ) Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs, or if you have been drinking Do not smoke in bed Always use a proper ashtray – never a wastepaper basket and make sure your cigarette is properly extinguished Always keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children Never leave a lit cigarette, cigar or pipe lying around – put them out, right out! If you can do so safely, smoke outdoors E-cigarettes fire safety tips There have been a number of incidents in the UK caused by e-cigarettes or their chargers. To help reduce the risk, follow these safety tips: Never leave e-cigarettes that are on charge unattended for long periods Do not mix components of different e-cigarettes Only use the charger supplied Ensure you purchase your e-cigarette from a reputable source Check the e-cigarette carries CE certification

October 22, 2025

New online hub brings Northamptonshire’s rich heritage to life

22 October 2025 A new website has been launched to give people access to Northamptonshire’s Historic Environment Record (HER) - a comprehensive digital archive featuring more than 65,000 records that chart the story of the county’s rich and varied past. From the Palaeolithic period to the present day, the HER is a vital tool for planners, land managers, researchers, and anyone interested in local history. It brings together detailed information on archaeological sites, historic landscapes, listed buildings, scheduled monuments, and artefacts, helping to protect and celebrate Northamptonshire’s diverse historic environment. The new online platform makes this wealth of information easily accessible through a searchable interactive map, allowing users to explore heritage assets across the county in just a few clicks. The launch follows a successful Historic England audit carried out in August 2025, which praised the HER for its significant progress and consistently high standards. The audit reported: “Since the previous audit in 2020, which was well-rated, the Northamptonshire HER has continued to make improvements to its service and has achieved a particularly high score this year. The HER is consistently strong across all areas assessed under the current audit scheme and has clearly demonstrated its commitment to improvement.” “This launch represents an exciting step forward in how we preserve, manage, and celebrate our county’s historic environment. Northamptonshire’s heritage is one of its greatest assets - it connects our communities, attracts visitors, and inspires pride in place. The HER website opens up that story to everyone.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure The Northamptonshire Historic Environment Record is managed by West Northamptonshire Council and continues to evolve as new discoveries and insights are added. By making the information freely accessible online, the Council aims to support responsible development, enhance understanding of the county’s history, and inspire future generations to value and protect their shared heritage. Explore the database on the HER website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 20, 2025

Over 90 people unite to champion male mental health in Northamptonshire 

20 October 2025 On Thursday 16 October, more than 90 people came together with West and North Northamptonshire Councils to raise awareness of male mental health and reaffirm their commitment to suicide prevention. The event, held in partnership with local mental health services at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, showcased the vital support available across the county. Attendees heard inspiring stories from men who had taken part in a new campaign film and contributed written reflections, sharing their personal journeys and messages of hope. These honest stories sparked conversations, helping to break down stigma and encourage open dialogue around male mental health. The event also featured the screening of a powerful new film that shares the personal journeys of local males, following the recent launch of a joint campaign by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and North Northamptonshire Council (NNC). Timed to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, the campaign aims to shine a light on male mental health, reduce stigma, and encourage access to both local and national support services through real experiences. We know that many males struggle in silence, and this campaign is about changing that. By sharing real stories and encouraging open conversations, we hope to show that support is available and that no one has to face mental health challenges alone. I’m incredibly proud of everyone who contributed to this meaningful event and campaign. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health at WNC This event was a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and conversation. Hearing the personal stories shared by local men was deeply moving and reinforces why we must continue to break the stigma around male mental health. By coming together, we’re showing that support is out there and that no one has to face these challenges alone. Cllr Brian Benneyworth NNC’s Executive Member for Health and Leisure Click here to find out more about mental health support for men in West Northamptonshire. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 20, 2025

Reminder to celebrate your West Northants male role models

20 October 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is reminding residents to submit their nominations for the West Northamptonshire Male Role Model Awards 2025 before the deadline of midnight, on Sunday 26 October. These annual awards honour those who go above and beyond to inspire and go the extra mile for their communities, workplaces and the people around them. Whether through quiet acts of kindness, bold leadership, or simply being a steady source of support, these individuals deserve to be recognised. Nominations are open to any man or boy who has demonstrated positive leadership, support, or dedication within their community. If you know someone who has inspired you or others, or has had a meaningful impact through their actions, this is your chance to celebrate their efforts. Finalists will be celebrated at a special ceremony on Wednesday 19 November, from 4.30pm at Northampton Guildhall, in honour of International Men’s Day 2025. To submit a nomination please visit the form here . Please note all individuals nominated must be living or working in West Northamptonshire. These awards are part of WNC’s initiative to raise awareness of men’s wellbeing and highlight the importance of this topic. As part of this, this year’s event will be open to members of the public to drop in and see a range of stall holders to find out more about support and advice available in Northamptonshire. Stall holders will include: Action4happiness, Sends4Dads, Recovery College NHFT, DM Photography & Film, Art Jam, Andys Man Club, Cruse Bereavement Support and more. West and North Northamptonshire Councils are sharing stories of males who have lived experience of suicide and together are encouraging people to #starttheconversation around suicide prevention to help raise awareness. Having a range of stallholders as part of this event is a great opportunity for members of the public to come along and find out more about support available for the men in their lives, whether it be a child, friend, dad, brother or neighbour. There is a wealth of support available and I strongly encourage people to come along to find out more, whilst also joining the award celebrations. Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at West Northamptonshire Council For more information about support for males visit the WNC website and to find out more about the #starttheconversation campaign please visit the Start The Conversation YouTube channel . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 20, 2025

New Heritage Park opens for families and residents in Northampton

20 October 2025 Families, residents, and community groups came together on Saturday to celebrate the opening of Castle Park at Chalk Lane, a new green space built on the historic site of Northampton Castle. Created by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), the park offers a welcoming space for people of all ages to relax, learn, and connect. Its thoughtful design blends Northampton’s proud heritage with features that encourage community use and family-friendly activities. The opening event held by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) held on Saturday 18 October, welcomed dignitaries, residents, and visitors to mark the transformation of this heritage site into a vibrant and educational green space. The event featured speeches from HM Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, James Saunders Watson Esq, Cllr Alison Eastwood (Chairman of WNC), Cllr Jane Birch (Mayor of Northampton Town Council), and Cllr James Petter (Cabinet member for regeneration at WNC). Castle Park features landscaped gardens, accessible pathways, and plenty of seating areas for visitors to enjoy time together outdoors. Educational storyboards and heritage markers bring local history to life, making it a place where children and adults can explore Northampton’s royal past while enjoying the present. The park’s layout includes ironstone seat walls and heritage archways that echo the scale and shape of the original castle walls, creating a sense of place that connects families and visitors to centuries of local history. Located next to Northampton railway station, Castle Park also creates a stunning new gateway to the town centre. Its open, welcoming design offers a positive first impression for visitors and a new place for the local community to gather. Castle Park is more than just a green space, it’s a place where families can make memories, where residents can meet and relax, and where our community can celebrate its heritage together. It shows what can be achieved when we invest in spaces for people. Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Castle Park is the result of several years of work by local councillors, residents and the Friends of Northampton Castle group and a brilliant example of partnership working. The Spring Boroughs Neighbourhood Plan identified the need for play space for children living in the area and encouraged development of the historic castle site. It’s wonderful to see that this vision has now become a reality in a place that brings the medieval history of the town to life in such a unique and engaging way. Cllr Jane Birch, the Mayor of Northampton The park is part of Northampton’s wider regeneration programme and has been made possible through £2.27 million in investment, including contributions from the Towns Fund, Section 106 funding, and West Northamptonshire Council. Now officially open, Castle Park on Chalk Lane Northampton is expected to become a much-loved community hub, supporting family days out, local events, school visits, and everyday recreation for generations to come. Click here to find out more about the heritage of Castle Park. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 17, 2025

West Northants Trading Standards warn of fireworks danger

17 October 2025 People planning Bonfire Night or Diwali celebrations are being advised on how to stay safe when buying fireworks. West Northamptonshire Council’s Trading Standards team is reminding people to buy only from licensed sellers, and to avoid the temptation to pick up cheap fireworks from the back of a van, a market stall, or on social media. All fireworks sold in the UK must carry the CE (Conformité Européenne) or UKCA mark and come with English labelling and instructions. Those that carry the China Export mark do not comply with European safety standards. Fireworks which lack this will not have been put through the same rigorous testing as genuine fireworks and could pose a serious risk to public safety. People are also reminded that the sorts of fireworks typically designed for private displays can only be bought by those aged 18 and over, and that the most powerful Category F4 fireworks must only be used by professionals. The safest place to enjoy fireworks is at a properly organised public display, but those who choose to have a firework party at home should always follow the firework code here: RoSPA- Firework safety tips | RoSPA Residents are also being reminded that it is illegal to set off or throw fireworks, including sparklers, in the street or other public places. Fireworks must not be used between 11pm and 7am, except on Bonfire Night (when the cut-off time is midnight), and on Diwali, New Year’s Eve, and Chinese New Year (when the cut-off time is 1am). “Fireworks are a wonderful part of our seasonal celebrations, but they must be treated with care and respect. We want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night and Diwali safely, which is why we’re urging residents to buy only from licensed sellers and follow the firework code. Unsafe or illegal fireworks can cause serious harm, and it’s simply not worth the risk. Our Trading Standards team is working hard to protect the public, and we encourage anyone with concerns to report them.” Cllr Andrew Last, West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate and Regulatory Services More information can be found on the Northants Fire website: Bonfires and Fireworks – Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service (northantsfire.gov.uk) People are encouraged to report any suspected illegal products or sellers to Trading Standards by contacting Citizens Advice and Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 17, 2025

December Cabinet meeting date change

17 October 2025 West Northamptonshire Council has moved its December Cabinet meeting from Wednesday 10 December to Monday 22 December. We recognise this date is close to Christmas and may cause some inconvenience. However, it is important that Cabinet considers the draft budget with the full picture of Government funding. This year, there is still uncertainty around the level of grant we will receive through the Government’s Fair Funding review. The details are expected in mid-December, and moving the meeting allows Cabinet to make well-informed decisions before the draft budget goes out for consultation. We hope colleagues and partners will understand that this change is about being transparent, responsible and making sure the decisions we take are well-informed. Councillor John Slope, Cabinet Member for Finance To find out more about the Council’s schedule of meetings, visit our website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 16, 2025

Tenants show support for future social housing proposals in West Northants

16 October 2025 Nearly 2,700 people have given their views on the future management of social housing services in West Northamptonshire. Around 60 per cent of tenants who responded to the recent major consultation supported plans to transfer services currently managed by Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH) back to West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) control. The feedback, which will be presented at a meeting of WNC’s Children, Education and Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee next week (Monday 20 October), showed less than 10 per cent of those who responded to the consultation were opposed to the plans and 30 per cent undecided. Importantly, 93 per cent of respondents understood that a transfer would not affect their tenancy agreements, rent payments or other existing arrangements. The total number of tenants who took part in the consultation this summer represents around 22 per cent of those living in the 11,500 homes owned by WNC and managed by NPH, an Arm’s Length Management Organisation (ALMO) set up in 2015. Following national legislative changes and updated regulatory standards for social housing, many councils have chosen to bring services back in-house to strengthen oversight and achieve closer alignment between housing and wider Council services. The proposed transfer aims to deliver an improved customer experience, giving tenants a true ‘one stop shop’ for all Council services and stronger assurance around building safety and compliance, while ensuring more resources are directed towards property improvements and tenant support. Following Scrutiny’s consideration next week, the findings from the consultation and future options will be presented to WNC’s Cabinet in November, where the final decision on the future management of housing services will be made. If agreed, this will then require Secretary of State approval. “This consultation has given tenants, leaseholders, and the wider public a real voice in shaping the future of housing services in West Northamptonshire. “It’s very encouraging to see that the majority of residents support bringing these services back under direct Council control, recognising the benefits of closer oversight and integration with our wider housing and community priorities. Next week’s scrutiny meeting is an important opportunity to review the feedback in detail before Cabinet considers the final decision next month.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of WNC If approved, detailed implementation planning is already underway to ensure a smooth transition for tenants, leaseholders, and staff, with a potential phased approach to service transfer between now and April 2027. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 16, 2025

Residents urged to “Be Breast Aware” during Breast Cancer Awareness Month

16 October 2025 People across West Northamptonshire are encouraged to “Be Breast Aware” and take proactive steps to detect breast cancer early. Breast cancer remains one of the UK’s most pressing health challenges. It is the most common cancer in women and one of the leading causes of death for women under fifty. In the UK, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every nine minutes, and a man every day. 104 deaths due to Breast cancer were recorded with a rate of 18.3 per 100,000 population. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is supporting awareness efforts by promoting the TLC (Touch, Look, Check) approach, urging people to regularly check their breasts and attend screening appointments. Early detection significantly increases survival rates, and the national breast screening programme saves around 1,300 lives annually. In Northamptonshire, 70% of eligible women aged 53–70 were screened in 2024, aligning with national averages. However, WNC is aiming to increase uptake to the target of 80%. “Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a vital opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of early detection. We know that catching breast cancer early can save lives, and I urge all eligible residents to attend their screening appointments and be breast aware. Whether it’s checking for changes or encouraging loved ones to speak to their GP, these small actions can make a big difference. Let’s work together to improve outcomes and reduce the impact of breast cancer in our communities.” Cllr Laura Couse, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health Residents who have missed their screening or have not received an invitation are encouraged to contact the Breast Clinic Coordinator at Northampton General Hospital on 01604 544308 or speak to the Breast Care Nurses on 01604 545512. Visit Northampton General Hospital website for more information. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 15, 2025

Motorist prosecuted after failing to pay fine for abandoned car

15 October 2025 A Northampton motorist has been ordered to pay almost £1,000 for abandoning a vehicle on a public street. Idriz Noka left his Ford Focus in Roe Road in Northampton, ignoring official notices to remove it and then failing to pay a £200 Fixed Penalty Notice for the offence. The vehicle was later seized by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 after officers assessed it as abandoned. His actions cost him almost five times that figure when the Council pursued prosecution at Northampton Magistrates Court, where he was found guilty in his absence. West Northamptonshire Council was represented by Scott Howkins at the hearing on 23 September, which saw Noka, of Florence Road in Northampton, fined £100 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £40 plus costs of £861.94. His seized vehicle was also destroyed. Around 300 abandoned/untaxed vehicles are removed from the streets of West Northamptonshire each year thanks to the End of Life Vehicle Impound Scheme (or ELVIS), a joint operation between West Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire Police. “Abandoned cars are more than just an eyesore, they block roads, reduce parking for others and can attract vandalism or arson. “We don’t want to see anyone end up with fines or court costs over something that can be avoided. If you’re struggling to keep your vehicle taxed or roadworthy, there are straightforward ways to deal with it safely and legally. Taking a few minutes to sort it properly can save a lot of trouble later” Councillor Andrew Last, WNC’s Cabinet member for HR, Corporate & Regulatory Services Find out more about abandoned vehicles Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 14, 2025

Families invited to the opening of four new Family Hubs launching in West Northamptonshire

14 October 2025 Parents and carers are invited to bring their children and young people to explore West Northamptonshire Council’s new Family Hubs in Upton, Moulton, Daventry and Kingsthorpe. Opening during October and November, the hubs will offer support for families with children at all stages - from prebirth into childhood through to the age of 19 (or 25 for those with additional needs). Launch events for the new hubs will take place on the following dates: Upton : 25 October 2025, 11am to 2pm, Upton Meadows Family Hub Barring St, Upton, Northampton, NN5 4DD Moulton : 1 November, 9:30-11:30am, Moulton Community Centre, Sandy Hill Reedings, Northampton NN3 7AX Daventry : 15 November 2025, 11am – 3pm Daventry Family Hub, Staverton Road, Daventry, NN11 4EY Kingsthorpe : 22 November 2025, 11am -3pm Kingsthorpe Family Hub, St. Davids Rd, Northampton NN2 7QJ The hubs will expand on the services already being offered in these buildings, allowing people to access a wide range of services including parenting support, early years activities, baby classes, health advice, half-term activities and more. Alongside this the team will be able to signpost families to services to support school age children and young people. Each will be tailored to meet the needs of the local community, and staff will work alongside the community organisations and health partners already using these spaces. The expansion of this scheme follows the success of the first Family Hub at The Forum in Towcester, as part of the Council’s commitment to supporting children and families across West Northamptonshire. This is a really exciting time and a huge step forward in making West Northants a great place to grow up. The expansion of our Family Hubs model continues to build on the work underway to help make West Northamptonshire a place where children, young people and families thrive, with these hubs offering families a space to connect, find information and enjoy time together. We’ve listened to our communities about the locations of these hubs and what people would like to see from them. The new hubs help us to make best use of existing community buildings, saving taxpayers' money and expanding and improving the offer for families at those locations. We’re excited to be working alongside partners to provide further activities, advice and information in areas where needed, helping to ensure families can access a range of support in one place. Our team aren’t here to duplicate offers but only add to what is available ensuring that families have lots of choice where they live and our Towcester Family Hub is a proven example of this. Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children’s, Families, and Education Opening hours and activities will vary by location, and are subject to change over the coming months, based on visitor feedback. Please note Moulton, Upton and Kingsthorpe are smaller sites, with Daventry offering a similar service to the first hub in Towcester. New sessions will begin the Monday following each launch event. Full timetables and updates will be available soon at www.westnorthants.gov.uk/family-hubs Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 14, 2025

New mural celebrates Northampton Castle’s legacy and community spirit

14 October 2025 A new mural in the heart of Northampton has been unveiled, celebrating the town’s rich heritage and community spirit. Located on St Andrews Road, beside the evolving Castle Park green space, the artwork offers residents a vibrant and lasting tribute to the legacy of Northampton Castle. West Northamptonshire Council and Fermynwoods Contemporary Art have led the project, with the mural designed by Studio Studio artists Bridie Cheeseman and Jake Williams. It brings history to life through bold imagery and local stories, transforming a familiar route into a source of pride and inspiration for all who pass by. Situated on a key commuter route beside the new Castle Park heritage redevelopment and green space, the mural commemorates the remarkable history of the former Northampton Castle and key events that have shaped the town’s identity. Featuring historic figures and narratives – from the trial of Thomas Becket to King John’s Parliament, to the brickwork that continues to define Northampton’s architecture – the artwork transforms a prominent commuter route into a striking celebration of the town’s rich past and vibrant future. Studio Studio worked closely with local communities, historians, and young people from Spring Lane Primary School, The CE Academy, and The Creative Place, Northampton, developing ideas, figures, and compositional elements that directly reflect the town’s history and the perspectives of its residents. The ambitious scale project was supported by BA Fine Art students from the University of Northampton, as well as Northampton-based illustrator Charlotte Lilly George, who assisted for ten days on site and has been immortalised within the mural. Charlotte contributed her own panel design, now permanently part of the composition. The project was made possible thanks to funding from Arts Council England and West Northamptonshire Council, with further support from local family-run business Abington Decorating Supplies and national paint supplier Caparol UK. This mural is a powerful tribute to Northampton’s extraordinary past and a testament to the creativity and collaboration within our community. It not only enhances the visual landscape of Castle Park but also connects residents and visitors alike to the stories that shaped our town. We’re proud to support projects like this that bring history to life and inspire civic pride. Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council We are delighted to see Studio Studio’s vision brought to life with such thought and care. The collaboration with schools, historians, local illustrators and university students has ensured that this mural truly belongs to the people of Northampton. James Steventon, Director of Fermynwoods Contemporary Art Post-installation, GB Facilities Services applied professional anti-graffiti protection to safeguard the artwork. We’re proud to have been awarded the contract to apply professional anti-graffiti protection to the stunning new mural on St Andrew’s Road, celebrating the history of Northampton Castle. To ensure it remains protected from graffiti and environmental damage, we’re applying SLX100 breathable surface protection. This specialist treatment ensures the mural remains vibrant and resilient for years to come, safeguarding a new cultural landmark for Northampton. GB Facilities Services Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 13, 2025

WhatsApp assistant launched to help with adult social care queries

13 October 2025 Residents across West Northamptonshire can now get quick, easy access to adult social care information thanks to a new digital assistant named Rose, available on WhatsApp. Rose is a conversational AI (artificial intelligence) tool designed to help people navigate care services, find support, and get answers to common questions without needing to search through complex websites. Rose is being delivered on a trial basis by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) until March 2026. From queries like “I am a new mum who is finding it difficult to be happy and excited” to “How can I get support for my mum who cares for my dad while he is in hospital?”, Rose provides trusted guidance and connects users to services from WNC and partners such as Alzheimer’s UK and wellbeing services. To use Rose, just send a WhatsApp message saying “Hi Rose” to 07457 416323. Rose is a fantastic example of how we’re using innovation to make services more accessible. Whether you're a carer, a concerned family member, or someone seeking support for yourself, Rose is here to help, quickly, simply, and securely. We’re proud to be leading the way in using AI to improve lives and encourage everyone to give it a try. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council Following successful testing with a small group of carers, Rose enters a second phase from October 2025 to March 2026, during which residents, carers, and professionals are encouraged to try it out and share feedback. For more information, visit www.westnorthants.gov.uk/rose . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 13, 2025

Exciting programme revealed to celebrate civic pride and community on Northamptonshire Day

13 October 2025 An exciting programme of events and activities has been announced for the Northamptonshire Day celebration event, taking place on Saturday 25 October in Northampton Market Square. The action-packed event, organised by West and North Northamptonshire Councils alongside Discover Northamptonshire and partners, promises an interactive and fun showcase of everything that makes the county special – from its people, places, and businesses to its heritage, culture, and traditions. This event will have something for every resident and visitor to enjoy. Taking place from 1pm to 7.30pm, visitors can enjoy a packed day of live entertainment, interactive stalls, heritage exhibitions, and family-friendly activities. The event will feature performances from local artists, including Britain’s Got Talent finalists Northants Sings Out, and a surprise headline 80s tribute act in the evening, alongside immersive experiences across multiple zones: Main Stage From 1pm, the stage comes alive with an exciting line-up of music and entertainment. Enjoy local talent curated by BBC Introducing, sets from live DJs, and a special performance from Northants Sings Out, before building up to the headline 80s tribute act from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. BBC Radio Northampton is also proud to be official media partner at the event. Family Zone (sponsored by Northampton BID & Billing Aquadrome) Enjoy a packed programme of fun for children and families throughout the day. Activities include a pumpkin patch, Halloween trail, face painting, arts & crafts, and interactive performances from jugglers, stilt walkers, bubble artists, and the Town Crier. Younger visitors can also take part in Junk Orchestra workshops, meet a caricaturist, and explore a wide range of playful activities designed to entertain all ages. Savour the Flavour Zone (sponsored by Wilson Browne Solicitors) Organised by Made in Northamptonshire, visitors are invited to sample locally produced food and drink from across Northamptonshire. Watch professional chefs in the demo kitchen, sample free tasters and purchase locally produced goods - this zone is one to whet everyone’s appetite. Plus, there will be food, drink and more on offer from the local traders based in Northampton Market Square, as well as a licensed bar. Culture Zone Experience Northamptonshire’s creativity brought to life with dance showcases from Northampton College, live storytelling sessions, and a curated selection of films from the Northamptonshire Film Archive Trust. Families can get hands-on with pottery and painting workshops, browse inspiring art displays, and take part in creative competitions, making this a vibrant space for all ages. Heritage Zone (sponsored by Delapré Abbey) Step into the county’s rich history with a wide range of interactive experiences. Highlights include Northampton Museum & Art Gallery’s A History of Northamptonshire in100 Objects exhibition, live battle re-enactments, medieval stocks, and artefacts from Silverstone Museum celebrating the circuit’s 75th anniversary. Visitors can also explore traditional boot and shoe craft with Crockett & Jones, uncover the stories of Hunsbury Iron Fort and Corby Heritage Centre, discover Black Ivory Tours, and enjoy hands-on activities with the Northamptonshire Archaeological Resource Centre - plus much more. Community Zone Celebrate local organisations and initiatives through interactive and engaging experiences. Visitors can enjoy VR demonstrations, creative craft activities linked to local history, storytelling and drama sessions for all ages, plus workshops led by local authors and groups. The zone will also feature family-friendly games, giveaways, and opportunities to connect with local volunteering projects. Northamptonshire Day is a fantastic celebration of community spirit, our local identity, and the incredible people, businesses, and culture that make our area so special. This event promises an exciting line-up of performances, heritage experiences, and activities for all ages, and we are proud to bring the county together to enjoy everything Northamptonshire has to offer. It’s a day to celebrate everything about our county, showcase local talent, and inspire civic pride in place. Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council This is the first county-wide event delivered in partnership with Discover Northamptonshire and marks the beginning of a lasting annual tradition that celebrates everything Northamptonshire has to offer while promoting community pride and shared success, funded utilising £10,000 from the UKSPF (UK Shared Prosperity Fund). Northamptonshire Day provides us with a valuable opportunity for us to celebrate the county’s rich, unique heritage and culture. This event and the exciting programme that has been announced highlight the exceptional talent and enterprise across our region but also fosters a strong sense of civic pride and belonging. We are proud of working with partners and sponsors to support this new tradition - one that will continue to unite residents and visitors in celebrating all that makes Northamptonshire unique. Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council In addition to the zone sponsors, event sponsors include Crockett & Jones, EMW Law, Silverstone Park, the South Midlands Local Skills Improvement Plan, Made in Northamptonshire, and the University of Northampton. Prizes have also been generously donated for raffles, including three vouchers worth up to £300 each, redeemable against a pair of locally crafted Crockett & Jones shoes. For full details of activities and how to take part, visit the Discover Northamptonshire website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 11, 2025

Just days left to apply for wholetime and on-call firefighter jobs in Northamptonshire

Just a few days remain for potential firefighters to apply to join Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service. The Service is currently recruiting both wholetime and on-call firefighters, and potential applicants have until 9am (on-call) and 10am (wholetime) on Monday October 13 to apply if they want to help serve and protect their local communities. You can click here to join. Becoming a firefighter is more than just fighting fires. They play a vital role in promoting fire safety in their local communities, carrying out prevention and protection work, and helping vulnerable residents stay safe from danger through Home Fire Safety Visits. When called into action, they will respond to a whole host of incidents ranging from house fires to road traffic collisions, wildfires to animal rescues, and dealing with chemical hazards. Sophia Perkins, who is both a wholetime and on-call firefighter at Kettering Fire Station, explains a bit more about what attracted her to the role in our video below. [embedded content] To become an apprentice wholetime firefighter, you must: have a full car driving licence valid for the UK be able to permanently live and work in the UK without any restrictions be aged 18 years old at the start of the training course in May 2026 To become an on-call firefighter, you must: Live or work within a reasonable distance (5 to 8 minutes) of the on-call station that has vacancies On-Call firefighters who are planning on responding to incidents whilst at their place of work, must have permission from their employer Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson said: “Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service plays a critical role in keeping the county safe, actively engaging with its local communities to promote safety and prevent incidents from happening in the first place. “The deadline closes shortly, and we’re looking for people who have the right attitude and are determined to make a difference by serving their local communities.” Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service particularly wants to attract people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life to apply and help ensure the county’s Fire Service truly represents the people it serves. If you wish to find out more about how the wholetime recruitment process works, then you can read our feature on what to expect and how to prepare. An information pack, which includes the job description, can be downloaded here .

October 10, 2025

Visitor numbers reflect huge success of West Northants Rugby World Cup activities

10 October 2025 The outstanding success of the Women’s Rugby World Cup (WRWC) brought tens of thousands of people together to enjoy world-class sport, community events, and live entertainment, latest figures have confirmed. According to recent analysis on the event’s impact in Northampton, nearly 10,000 people attended the Women’s Rugby World Cup Fan Zones in the Market Square this summer, with a further 48,500 people watching the matches at Franklins Gardens. In addition to this around 2,000 people attended the Rugbyfest in Abington Park with over 1,000 people involved with the two trophy tours which took place in February 2025 and May 2025. The tournament delivered a significant boost for local hospitality and businesses , with four international teams staying in West Northamptonshire, seeing hotels benefitting from long-term team stays of up to a month. 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. Northampton’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre also reported a significant uplift in visitors, welcoming more than 120,000 people in the first week of September - the highest number outside of the busy December period for over 18 months, and a 20% rise compared with the same week last year. The extensive Rugby World Cup activities spanned 12 months and were delivered by WNC using a modest budget of £35,000, specifically ringfenced for sports, leisure and culture events. The remaining costs of the activities were funded externally through strong local partnerships and the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF). During the tournament, WNC also received £10,000 income from Rugby World Cup for the hire of the Claret Car Park, further offsetting costs. “The Women’s Rugby World Cup was a fantastic opportunity to showcase West Northamptonshire at its very best - full of energy, pride and community spirit. We are proud to have been able to deliver such a wide-reaching programme of events on a modest budget alongside effective use of external funding, ensuring exceptional value for money and lasting community benefit for our residents. “It’s been wonderful to have created a lasting legacy from this tournament and to see more women and girls getting involved in sport and we look forward to building on this momentum for the future.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council The WRWC programme was made possible through collaboration with a wide range of local organisations, community groups, and businesses, all of whom helped to bring the celebrations to life. “We feel so privileged to have been part of the Women’s Rugby World Cup with our Yarn Bomb Art project. It provided us with a wonderful opportunity to bring members, from across the county together to work on such a fantastic project - they worked tirelessly on designs and ideas to make it eye catching and memorable for the visitors coming to the town. We wanted visitors to see how proud we are of Northamptonshire and what it means to us. “The WI ethos is all about friendship, community and education and we saw an abundance of that throughout our twelve months of working on this project. Not only did it create a sense of belonging it gave us the chance to share our skills and knowledge with so many other people. “We have had so many wonderful comments from visitors to the county as they wandered along the route to see our displays in St James and Northampton Town Centre. Furthermore, we have developed new working relationships with both statutory and voluntary organisations and increased our profile across the county and beyond.” Chris Carr, Chairman of Northamptonshire County Federation of WIs The success of the WRWC activity has already inspired a wave of ongoing engagement projects including new weekly touch rugby sessions for women of all abilities, delivered by Northampton Saints utilising £5,000 of UKSPF funding, ensuring the spirit and legacy of the tournament lives on across West Northamptonshire. Visitor analysis showed that the events drew a broad demographic mix, attracting traditional rugby fans as well as families and older women, with many visitors staying longer, reflecting a strong social and cultural atmosphere. Catchment data also revealed that people travelled from across Northamptonshire and neighbouring counties, positioning the town as a regional hub for sport and culture. The breakdown of analysis by pfbb UK using BT’s Location Insights data shows: On Sunday 24 August 2025, 1,500 people attended the Fan Zone, with an increase of people seen across the wider town centre +10.6% compared to the previous year. On Saturday 30 August 2025, 2,500 people attended the Fan Zone with an + 8% increase across the town centre compared to the previous year. On Sunday 31 August 2025, 1,700 people attended the Fan Zone with an +8.0% increase for the wider town centre compared to the previous year. On Sunday 7 September 2025, the fourth Fan Zone, coinciding with the Northampton Music Festival, had 2,200 people attending, showing a +5.8% across the wider town centre compared to the previous year. On Sunday 27 September 2025, the fifth Fan Zone showing the Red Roses win the Final at Twickenham, had over 2,000 people attending, showing +6.3% across the wider town compared to the previous year. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 09, 2025

Northampton’s 25th Diwali Festival of Lights set to sparkle this October

09 October 2025 Northampton’s annual Diwali Festival of Lights is set to take place on Saturday 18th October at the Market Square, with cultural stalls, food and entertainment from 10am, followed by a magical light parade at 6pm. This much-loved community festival, organised by Northampton Indian Hindu Welfare Organisation and supported by Northampton Town Council, West Northamptonshire Council and Northampton Town Centre BID is now in its 25th year. Visitors can enjoy cultural experiences such as henna painting and saree dressing, while browsing various community stalls and enjoying Indian food and drink on the Market Square from 10am. The packed stage programme, which runs from 12pm until 8pm, includes a variety of community performances, along with presentations and speeches from local dignitaries. "The 25th Diwali Festival of Lights in Northampton is a vibrant celebration that brings our communities together. This milestone year is a testament to the dedication of its organisers and the enthusiasm of local residents who make it such a special occasion. We’re proud to support this brilliant event and look forward to celebrating with our communities." Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at West Northamptonshire Council “We are proud to support the Indian Hindu Welfare Organisation with this significant and popular festival, which is returning for its 25th year in the town. “We would encourage everyone to come and join the Diwali celebrations and witness the spectacular parade. There will be activities throughout the day, and people can really immerse themselves in this wonderful cultural experience.” Cllr Keith Holland Delamere, Chair of the Community Services Committee at Northampton Town Council The enchanting light parade will begin at 6pm at the Fish Street junction of Dychurch Lane, with school children and community groups joining large-scale puppets including Harminder the elephant and Shanti the giant bird, operated by outdoor arts specialists Rost Productions Ltd. It will continue onto The Ridings and follow a route down St Giles’ Terrace, pausing outside St Giles’ Church to receive the Diwali light. It will then move along St Giles’ Street onto St Giles’ Square, stopping at the Guildhall to receive a second Diwali light. The parade will then resume with the walking participants going down George Row and pausing in front of All Saints’ Church to receive a final Diwali light. The large puppets and floats will route up Wood Hill and the whole parade returns to the Market Square at 7pm to complete the 25th anniversary celebrations with a fantastic finale. “This is a particularly special festival for us as we celebrate 25 years of marking Diwali in Northampton. The event has grown every year from humble beginnings, to become a vibrant and inclusive community celebration with so many different groups, partners and individuals involved. “The IHWO is grateful for all the partners who have supported this festival and we are looking forward to welcoming visitors to the Market Square for a full day of festivities and entertainment.” Neelam Aggarwal-Singh, Chair of the Northampton IHWO The festival is also supported by Inspiration Arts, Rost Productions Ltd, Inspiration FM, the University of Northampton, Northampton College and Grosvenor Shopping Centre, with additional grant funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England. In India, Diwali is one of the most important festival of the year, representing the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and wisdom over ignorance. Traditionally it spans five days of celebrations, with the third day marking the main event. Prayers are offered to gods and goddesses, sweet offerings are placed before the deities and homes are illuminated with small clay lamps, to attract blessings and invite prosperity for the year ahead. For more information about the event, follow Northampton Town Council on Facebook or Instagram or visit: www.northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/diwali Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 08, 2025

New mortuary build moves closer to next major milestone

08 October 2025 Construction of the new public mortuary at Riverside Business Park in Northampton is progressing at pace, with the building soon to be fully wind and watertight. Recent site progress includes the completion of the roof with lighting and solar panels installed, ongoing external cladding and insulation, the finished concrete surface for the rear service yard, and progress on the power substation and access road. Internally, steelwork framing has started, marking the next phase of the build. Expected to open in early spring 2026, the purpose-built mortuary will deliver the highest standards of care and compassion for families across Northamptonshire and the surrounding areas. It will provide modern, private spaces for families, including dedicated viewing and identification rooms, to ensure a respectful and supportive experience during difficult times. The facility will bring essential post-mortem services under one roof, simplifying processes and reducing the need for travel between different sites. This will help families by reducing delays and improve efficiency for funeral directors, healthcare professionals, and other key services. Losing a loved one is one of the hardest experiences any family will face. This new mortuary will provide the care and dignity families deserve at a difficult time. The progress that has been made is a major step forward towards opening this vital service for our community. Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and HR and Regulatory Services The mortuary will also support emergency services in the event of major incidents, such as disasters involving multiple fatalities . This ensures Northamptonshire is well-prepared to respond while continuing to provide vital community services. The project is being delivered by Stepnell Ltd, a contractor experienced in managing large-scale public sector construction. With the building soon to be wind and watertight, we have created the conditions to safely and efficiently progress the internal fit-out. We are proud to be delivering a facility that will make an important difference to families and frontline services across the area. Graham Lambert, Director at Stepnell Ltd For more information about the Northampton Mortuary project, visit the West Northamptonshire Council website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 07, 2025

Re-use shop to open at Sixfields Household Waste Recycling Centre in partnership with Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity

07 October 2025 A new reuse shop will open this month at Sixfields Household Waste and Recycling Centre (HWRC), operated in partnership with local charity Cynthia Spencer Hospice. 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. Find out more at Shop with us - Cynthia Spencer Hospice | Northampton Opening later this month, 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. Earlier this year, West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) entered a new contract with FCC Environment, to manage all six recycling centres across the area - Sixfields, Ecton Lane, Daventry, Towcester and Brixworth Household Recycling Centres and Farthinghoe Recycling and Reuse Centre. The new re-use Sixfields shop will complement the long-established contractor led 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. The new shop at Sixfields HWRC 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, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste at West Northamptonshire Council 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 and supporting us to continue 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 (once open). People are encouraged to bring reusable items such as furniture, small appliances, books, and toys when visiting the recycling centres. An official opening date for the Sixfields re-use shop will be confirmed in the coming weeks. For more information on waste and recycling in West Northamptonshire, visit our waste webpages. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 06, 2025

Families in West Northamptonshire set to benefit from more face-to-face activities and support this Autumn

06 October 2025 Families across West Northamptonshire will benefit from further face-to-face support and activities, as the next phase of Family Hubs are set to open this autumn. Following on from the already thriving Family Hub in Towcester, a further four sites will open their doors to parents, children and young people in Daventry, Upton, Moulton and Kingsthorpe in the coming months, improving their access to information, support and guidance as well as a range of activities in a setting local to them. West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) plans to open more hubs across its communities is a core focus of the new Family Help Strategy, which sets out how the Council will work with partners to improve access to early support and help so it can prevent escalation or crisis intervention down the line. The draft strategy will be discussed by Cabinet at its meeting next week (Monday 13 October). “Improving early support, guidance and information for families and young people is one of our administration’s top priorities as we work to deliver upon the ambitions of One West Northants plan to make our area the best place to grow up. It is essential we get this early support right and these new family hub sites are a great step in achieving this, with our Towcester Family Hub being a fantastic example of the positive impact they can have. “The Family Help strategy sets out to do just this and has had incredible involvement and feedback from many families and stakeholders across West Northants. This strategy further strengthens the work underway and sets the direction of how together with our partners, we can continue to build the support available to help create a strong structure of family help and prevention, making West Northamptonshire the best place to grow up.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children and Families at West Northamptonshire Council Family Hubs will offer services for children, young people and their parents from pre-birth to 19 years, and up to 25 years for those with additional needs. Families will be able to enjoy a variety of bookable and drop-in sessions, as well as speak to a range of professionals from health, education and support organisations. In addition, many activities will be available from sensory and baby massage, to starting preparation, school holidays craft sessions as well as spaces for young people to utilise and unwind. Alongside the Family Hub sites opening, the proposed Family Help strategy sets out a bold and collaborative vision to make West Northamptonshire a Child Friendly Place where children and families thrive through timely, joined-up support. It aims to transform how services work together to prevent crisis, promote resilience, and improve outcomes for children and young people to make West Northamptonshire the best place to grow up. To read the cabinet paper please click here. To find out more information about the family hubs please visit the Family Hubs page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 06, 2025

Plans unveiled to bring joined-up health and wellbeing services closer to home for residents

06 October 2025 Residents across West Northamptonshire will benefit from plans to join up community health and wellbeing services closer to home to help them live healthier, more independent lives. At their meeting next week (Monday, 13 October) West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet is set to consider changing the structure and number of Local Area Partnerships (LAPs) across the area to further strengthen how partners such as the council, health, police and community and voluntary organisations work more closely together and better align their services to the specific needs of communities. Under the proposals five LAPs instead of nine will cover West Northamptonshire, providing tailored and targeted support to communities aimed at improving health and wellbeing outcomes for those residents. These will better align with the NHS’s 10 Year Plan which sets out five integrated health neighbourhoods across West Northants. The proposed changes follow extensive public engagement, including surveys, focus groups, and one-to-one conversations with over 40 stakeholders. If agreed by Cabinet, the new structure is expected to be in place by spring 2026, with LAP meetings resuming this autumn. Councillors, town and parish councils, and community organisations will continue to play a vital role in shaping priorities and delivering responsive services. To support this work, WNC has established a Community Investment Fund, with an initial allocation of £100,000 committed by the Communities and Public Health team. The fund aims to grow through partner contributions, enabling investment in community assets that enhance wellbeing. “Helping people live healthy independent lives through visible, community leadership working is a key focus for our administration over the next four years and this is a significant step forward in how we do this. “By aligning our Local Area Partnerships with the NHS vision for neighbourhood working, we’re creating a more joined-up, preventative approach that puts people and place at the heart of care. This includes connecting more closely with our community centres and hubs, which play a vital role in providing wellbeing and support services at the heart of our neighbourhoods. We’ve listened to feedback from partners and residents, and we’re committed to building on what works, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring local voices shape the services they rely on.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council These changes support the ambitions of the NHS 10 Year Plan, the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy, and the One West Northamptonshire Plan, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and community-led solutions that improve access to care and build stronger, more resilient communities. View the Cabinet report Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 05, 2025

What happens when you apply to become a firefighter in Northamptonshire?

If you have ever wanted to be a firefighter, then now is the time to give it a go. Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service is currently looking for new wholetime firefighters, with the deadline to apply closing at 10am on Monday October 13. So what happens once you click that apply button? We want to make it clear, so you all know what to expect. Once the deadline closes, our HR teams will come up with a shortlist of people who best meet the criteria we are looking for. They will then be invited to attend a Recruitment Day in the middle of November. This is where you will take part in a one-hour group exercise, a 45-minute written assessment and will be tested on your fitness skills. Our assessors will judge your leadership capabilities, but also how you work within a team – both of which are vital skills you will use every day as a firefighter. Those who successfully pass the recruitment day will then have a go at our Job-Related Tests. These are designed to test your basic skills in some of the day-to-day activities firefighters carry out, such as running a hose, climbing a ladder and dragging a dummy casualty to safety. You can prepare and find out more by clicking here. [embedded content] Remaining candidates will then undergo a short assessment to test your confidence in and around water. Firefighters may have to rescue people from the water if they have gone open water swimming. Flooding is also a growing risk across the county – so it’s important for recruits to feel confident and safe around the water. Support will be on hand in advance of this task, and the assessment will be carried out in a controlled and supervised environment. The final candidates will then be invited into Fire HQ at the end of January, where they will be interviewed and give a presentation on areas such as effective communication, working with others and showcasing a commitment to diversity and integrity. They will also undertake a ‘safe and well’ exercise, which will test their ability to showcase good communication, empathy, active listening and a passion to help people. Our assessors will then make the final decision on who to make conditional offers to. Prior to any offer of employment, the Fire Service will carry out DBS and employment checks. Once you have passed a final fitness test and medical, you will be formally offered your role, fitted for your uniform, and can start to look forward to the beginning of your firefighter journey in May 2026. Area Manager Mick Berry said: “We know this is a challenging recruitment process to go through, but we recruit people from many different backgrounds who have never been exposed to the demands of a firefighter role before. “A shared passion in those who want to join us is a desire to serve and protect their local communities, so we hope to be able to choose from a diverse pool of talent from across the county so that are truly representative of the communities that we serve.” So, let us know if you fancy the challenge. You can apply to join Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service as a wholetime firefighter by clicking here .

October 02, 2025

Message of condolence following today's attack in Manchester

02 October 2025 On behalf of West Northamptonshire Council and the communities we represent, I offer our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives in the attack this morning outside Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester. Our thoughts are also with those who remain in critical condition, and with all those affected by this senseless act of violence. That this atrocity occurred on Yom Kippur – the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar – makes it all the more heartbreaking. It was not only an attack on innocent lives, but on the values of reflection, compassion, and peace that this day embodies. We stand in unwavering solidarity with the Jewish community in both Manchester and closer to home. At a time when many feel vulnerable, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that people of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs feel safe, respected, and supported. I would also like to express our gratitude to the emergency services and first responders for their swift and courageous actions, which undoubtedly prevented further loss of life. West Northamptonshire joins the nation in mourning. As a Council, we remain steadfast in our efforts to foster understanding, unity, and resilience – values that must guide us through moments of darkness and help us build a future rooted in mutual respect and shared humanity. Cllr Mark Arnull Leader, West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 03, 2025

Water training sessions help fire crews hone response to widescale flooding

Over eight days in September, crews from Mereway, Wellingborough and Corby have been training together to ensure Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has a joined-up approach to tackling largescale flooding. As we head into autumn, the risk of flooding across the county increases, so we need to ensure we are best prepared to be able to respond to any potential incidents where there may be a risk to life. For many years now, our water rescue crews in Mereway and Wellingborough have been fully trained to be able to carry out rescues in fast moving water. Crews at Corby have now also come on board to strengthen this capability and have been given PPE to carry out their new roles. The Corby crew had only previously been able to enter the water to set up our High-Volume Pump, which is based at the station and is deployed both locally and nationally to pump out large volumes of water. More than 80 firefighters attended training sessions at Hollowell Reservoir across September to understand the capabilities, equipment and PPE that other stations had. Crew Manager Tony Labrum (pictured left below) is a technical rescue trainer for the Service and was overseeing the exercises along with Watch Manager Casey Waldock. Tony said: “The training we’ve done has allowed everyone to come together and understand where they all fit into a joint response. “It also gave our Corby crews a chance to understand the hazards and risk of a flooded environment, and for them to teach our crews in Mereway and Wellingborough about the capabilities of the High-Volume Pump and how they operate it. “I would like to thank Anglian Water and the Hollowell Sailing Club for their generosity in allowing us to use their facilities for these training exercises. “We know that flooding is a growing risk for us here in Northamptonshire, so it’s vital that our crews maintain their skills so they can ensure the safety of residents across the county.”

October 03, 2025

Desborough crew to temporarily relocate to Rothwell during roof replacement works

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s on-call response from Desborough will be temporarily relocated to Rothwell Fire Station while Desborough is closed for essential work. The station in King Street, which was built in 1975, needs a roof replacement costing more than £30,000 due to deterioration over many years. Scaffolding is being put up at the Station this week ahead of the start date for the work on Monday (October 6) and is expected to take no longer than four weeks to complete. The fire engine from Desborough is being relocated to Rothwell during this time, and the on-call crew will continue to respond to incidents in the local area when alerted. Mick Berry, who is the Area Manager for Response at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We understand that local communities, particularly in our villages, want to see their fire crews on location to respond to incidents. “We want to reassure residents in the area that both the on-call crews of Desborough and Rothwell will be able to respond to incidents as usual and keep their local communities safe. “The roof replacement is very important and unfortunately cannot be completed safely while there are staff in the building. This is why we have plans in place to relocate the crew and ensure that the area is sufficiently protected as usual. “This is an important investment of more than £30,000 to ensure the Desborough station is fit for purpose. It also demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that our firefighters – both wholetime and on-call – have the best buildings possible in which to carry out their work.”

October 02, 2025

Have your say in the national Survey of Adult Carers

02 October 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is inviting adult cares across the area 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 will be posted from 1 October, with reminder letters going out on 1 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. 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). You can also read more on the NHS SACE page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 01, 2025

Free stop smoking support available this October

01 October 2025 Smokers across West Northamptonshire are being encouraged to take part in Stoptober 2025, the national campaign that helps thousands of people change their lives by quitting each year. With the positive message “Let’s quit smoking together,” residents can access free local support to make this October the month they stop for good. The West Northants Stop Smoking Service offers free, confidential support to anyone ready to quit, including a 12-week programme of telephone or face-to-face sessions, e-cigarette guidance, and free nicotine replacement therapy delivered to your door. “Like many young people, I started smoking as a teenager due to peer pressure and a lack of awareness about the health risks. In 2002, as I moved my focus into healthcare roles, I made a conscious decision to stop, finishing my last packet and never buying another. “Not only did my health improve, but the financial savings were significant. Quitting meant I could redirect that money to more positive things. Anyone who quits smoking can experience huge benefits not only to your financial health but more importantly, to your physical health. “A year after quitting, I tried a cigarette felt extremely unwell the next morning. That was the moment I knew I’d never go back. Quitting smoking was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for my health and my wallet.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Adult Services “Contacting the stop smoking service was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. After smoking since my teens, I’ve finally quit at 45. I feel better physically and mentally, and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. My advisor, was incredibly supportive and knowledgeable throughout the programme. I’m so grateful for the help I received.” Elizabeth a Northampton resident who successfully quit smoking this year This Stoptober, residents who sign up to the Stop Smoking Service will be entered into a prize draw to win two tickets to a Northampton Town Football Club home game. Joining is simple. Just register with the Stop Smoking Service, make your pledge to quit, and you’ll receive free support from trained advisers. You’ll then be entered into the prize draw. The competition runs from 17 September to 28 October 2025, with tickets kindly provided by Northampton Town Football Club. Click here to find out more about the competition. Quitting smoking for 28 days makes you five times more likely to quit for good. With the average smoker saving around £2,000 a year, there’s never been a better time to stop. For more information or to sign up, visit www.westnorthants.gov.uk/stopsmoking or call 0300 126 5700. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

October 01, 2025

Residents invited to celebrate the opening of Castle Park in Northampton

01 October 2025 Residents are invited to join West Northamptonshire Council for the official opening of Castle Park, a new play and community space inspired by Northampton’s rich heritage. The celebration will take place on Saturday 18 October 2025, from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Castle Park, Chalk Lane, Northampton. The event will begin with an opening speech and ribbon cutting at 10:30am, led by the Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, the Chairman for West Northamptonshire, Councillor James Petter, Deputy Leader of the Council and the Mayor of Northampton. A variety of free activities will be available throughout the day, including arts and crafts, face painting, glitter tattoos, music, sports, and heritage exhibitions. Local organisations including The Life Centre, Salvation Army, Castle Hill URC, and The Spring Charity will be offering refreshments, creative workshops, and family-friendly entertainment. Castle Park has been developed as part of a wider initiative to enhance public spaces and connect communities with local history. The project has been funded through a combination of the Government’s Towns Fund, Section 106 allocations from developers and Council investment. The park features heritage poles with storytelling panels and interactive elements that reflect the site’s historical significance, including its links to Northampton Castle. We will also be showcasing the impressive Mural along St Andrew’s Road for which the council received funding from the Arts Council. Castle Park is a celebration of our local heritage, and a space designed for everyone to enjoy. As a key gateway from the train station, this park will elevate the arrival experience into Northampton, offering a vibrant and welcoming first impression of our town. This project brings together history, creativity and community spirit, and I’m proud to see it come to life. We look forward to welcoming residents to the opening and seeing families enjoy this park for years to come. Councillor James Petter Castle Park is part of West Northamptonshire Council’s ongoing commitment to revitalising public spaces, promoting wellbeing, and celebrating the unique identity of the area. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 30, 2025

Pregnant women eligible for flu vaccines this season

30 September 2025 Pregnant women across West Northamptonshire are being encouraged to consider the free flu vaccine this autumn, as part of making informed decisions about their health and the health of their unborn babies. During pregnancy, the immune system naturally changes, which can make expectant mothers and their babies more vulnerable to complications from flu, including pneumonia, which can affect the growth of the baby leading to low birth weight. Pregnant women have a higher risk of hospital admission with flu over the general population. Last year, 64% of pregnant women in West Northamptonshire did not receive the flu vaccine, leaving many at increased risk of catching seasonal flu. This year, West Northamptonshire Council’s Public Health team are encouraging all pregnant women to speak with their midwife or GP to discuss the benefits and ask any questions they may have about the flu vaccine. With respiratory infections already on the rise and colder weather leading to more indoor gatherings, the risk of flu spreading is increasing. Vaccination remains one of the best ways to help protect mothers and their baby. The vaccinated mother transfers antibodies through their placenta and breast milk and provides immunity to the infant. Therefore, maternal vaccination is the best way to protect newborns who cannot yet be vaccinated. We want every pregnant woman to feel empowered to make the best choices for themselves and their baby. Our role is to provide clear information and support, so expectant mothers can have open conversations with their healthcare professionals and make well informed decisions about the flu vaccine. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northants Council Every pregnancy is unique, and so are the questions women may have about vaccination. We’re here to listen and provide guidance, so women feel confident in their choices. If you’re unsure about the flu vaccine, please reach out to your midwife. We also have a team of vaccination nurses in maternity who are here to help you make the decision that’s right for you and your baby. Clare Flower, Head of Midwifery, Northampton General Hospital Pregnant women are also encouraged to take up opportunities to protect themselves and their babies via other recommended vaccination programmes during pregnancy, such as for Whooping Cough (Pertussis) and RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) For more information, visit the West Northamptonshire Council Immunisation page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 26, 2025

Sixth Form schools invited to register for Chairman’s Debating Competition 2026

26 September 2025 Sixth Form schools across West Northamptonshire are being invited to put forward teams for the 2026 Chairman’s Debating Competition, a chance for young people to showcase their skills, challenge ideas, and build confidence in front of a live audience. Now a much-anticipated annual event, the competition brings together Sixth Form teams from schools and colleges across the area. Previous years have seen strong performances from Magdalen College School, Northampton Academy, Northampton International Academy, Northampton College and The Duston School, with students impressing audiences and judges alike with their quick thinking and powerful arguments. The event is expertly supported by Debate Mate, who run skill-building workshops ahead of the competition and provide professional judges on the day. I’m thrilled to invite our Sixth Form schools to take part again in next year’s debating competition. The competition is always inspiring, it’s wonderful to see young people think on their feet, listen to each other, and present their ideas with confidence. This isn’t just about debating on the day; it’s about helping students discover their voice, grow in self-belief, and develop skills that will stay with them for life. Cllr Alison Eastwood, Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council The competition will take place in February 2026, following a skills webinar in January. Schools are invited to register their teams by emailing [email protected] before Friday 19 December 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 26, 2025

Highest civic honour awarded to former councillors for outstanding service

26 September 2025 At last night’s Full Council meeting, West Northamptonshire Council awarded the prestigious title of Honorary Alderman to a group of former councillors, recognising their exceptional service and dedication to both the Council and the communities they have represented over many years. The title of Honorary Alderman is the highest civic honour that can be offered to a former councillor. It is a non-political award, presented in recognition of individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact through their work in public service. The recipients are: Ann Addison JP – Represented Kislingbury and later Harpole and Grange wards. Former Leader of South Northamptonshire Council and first Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council, Ann played a major role in shaping local planning policy and raising the profile of the new authority. She continues to serve as Clerk to Milton Malsor Parish Council and is active in schools and community justice education. Dermot Bambridge – Served the Silverstone ward for over 20 years, supporting the village’s growth and regeneration of Silverstone Circuit and business park. He led environmental and economic development portfolios and chaired the Moat Lane project in Towcester, transforming the town centre. Sally Beardsworth – Longstanding councillor for Kingsthorpe, Sally served as Mayor of Northampton and Leader of the Liberal Democrat group. She was a strong voice for housing and community services, championing residents across Northampton over three decades. Alan Chantler – Represented Yelvertoft and wider Daventry district, Alan was known for his deep understanding of rural life. He served on planning and licensing committees and worked as Disability and Heritage Champion, ensuring small communities were heard. Nazim Choudary – Represented St David’s ward in Northampton and later served on West Northamptonshire Council. As the youngest ever Mayor of Northampton, Naz worked closely with diverse communities across Northampton East, promoting inclusion and engagement. Mary Clarke – Served across South Northamptonshire Council, including as Council Leader, where she pioneered joint working with Cherwell District Council, saving millions while protecting services. She played a major role in housing and regeneration and later chaired SEMLEP’s European funding committee, driving local economic growth. Gareth Eales – Represented Dallington Spencer ward in Northampton, serving as Mayor of Northampton and Leader of the Labour Group. Gareth is recognised for his tireless advocacy for Northampton and his role in campaigns to protect local government services. André González De Savage – Represented East Hunsbury, serving as Cabinet Member for public protection, fire, broadband, and highways. Later Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council, André was instrumental in establishing Wootton Park School and remains active in tourism and emergency service charities. Andrew Grant – Served in Towcester and later Hackleton and Grange Park wards. He held leadership roles at South Northamptonshire Council and chaired WNC’s Children, Housing and Education Scrutiny Committee, shaping regeneration and transformation projects in Towcester. Alan Hills – Represented Hill ward in Daventry for almost 20 years. A former Mayor of Daventry and portfolio holder for Culture and Leisure, Alan championed community sport, founding the Daventry District Sports Awards, and remains active in community groups. David James – Represented Abbey North and later Daventry East, leading on regeneration projects including Mulberry Place, Catesby Tunnel, and the A45 link road. His work brought new leisure, health, and infrastructure improvements to Daventry. Anna King – Represented Duston West and St Crispin wards, and earlier Phippsville. Anna held roles in community engagement, supporting diversity, youth, and cultural events including Northampton Pride, the Diwali Festival, and Inspirational Women’s Awards. Jamie Lane – Represented Boothville and Parklands, previously Ecton Brook and Boothville. A former Mayor of Northampton, Jamie chaired Scrutiny and Planning and worked closely with resident associations to strengthen local community voice. Wendy Randall – Represented Daventry East and earlier wards on Daventry District Council. Former Labour Group Leader, Wendy campaigned for ambulance stations, open spaces, and local facilities, while serving as Daventry Mayor and trustee of community centres. Brian Sargeant – Represented Sixfields, previously Upton, and served as Northampton’s last Borough Mayor. He played key roles in scrutiny reviews and licensing, while also supporting local food banks and long-standing educational charities. John Shephard – Represented Boughton ward and surrounding villages for over 40 years. A former Leader of Daventry District Council and later Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council, John championed planning, finance, and civic life, introducing schools’ debating competitions and cultural initiatives. Winston Strachan – Represented Castle ward and previously Billing and St Crispin. Winston held senior scrutiny roles at the County Council, worked with youth services and transport, and built strong community relations across Northampton’s diverse communities. John Townsend – Represented South Northamptonshire from 1984–2021, chairing Planning and Cabinet. He helped secure The Forum offices in Towcester and led design policies that protected the character of new developments in Towcester and Brackley. “These extraordinary individuals have dedicated their lives to serving our community with unwavering passion and dedication. Their contributions have touched the lives of countless residents, leaving an enduring legacy of service and compassion. We are privileged to honour their remarkable achievements and celebrate their impact on our community.” Cllr Alison Eastwood, Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council For the full biographies of each new Honorary Alderman, please visit the biographies page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 25, 2025

One Stop Shop opens at One Angel Square

25 September 2025 From today, Thursday 25 September, West Northamptonshire Council’s Customer Services One Stop Shop has officially opened its doors at One Angel Square, Northampton, giving residents a modern and welcoming new place to access help and advice. The move from the Guildhall marks an important step in bringing council services and local support partners together under one roof, making it quicker and easier for people to get what they need in a single visit. The One Stop Shop is now based at the St John’s Street entrance of One Angel Square, just a short walk from Northampton’s bus station and town centre amenities. Alongside WNC teams such as Housing Options, Wellbeing, and Adult Social Care, the new hub also hosts a range of trusted local partners, including Citizens Advice, Community Law Service, Jobcentre Plus, Migrant Help, NDAS, and Northampton Town FC Community Trust. Together, they provide support on issues ranging from housing and benefits to legal advice, health checks, domestic abuse support, and employability skills. This change is part of the Council’s wider work to use public buildings more efficiently and improve the way services are delivered. The new One Stop Shop at One Angel Square will be offering a more accessible environment, with modern self-serve areas whilst offering joined-up support from council and community partners. The new space was designed to give customers a better experience, whether they're popping in to ask about council tax, looking for housing support, or speaking to someone about benefits, health, or general advice. “I’m delighted to welcome residents to our new One Stop Shop at One Angel Square. This move is about making life easier for people, a single, accessible place where you can come in, talk to the right people, and leave with the support and advice you need. By creating a modern, welcoming space and bringing services together, we’re not only improving the experience for residents but also making better use of council buildings so we can continue investing in frontline services.” Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate and Regulatory Services Residents can still access many council services online 24/7, and drop-in sessions continue to run across West Northamptonshire for those who prefer local support. Details of all these options are available on the Monthly drop-in sessions page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 25, 2025

Residents invited to try the latest health tech at Weston Favell Library

25 September 2025 Residents across Northamptonshire are invited to a free Health Tech event at Weston Favell Library on Wednesday, 22 October from 10 am – 3pm as part of Good Things Foundation’s national Get Online Week. The event organised by Northamptonshire Libraries and Digital Northants will give people the chance to try out the latest innovations designed to support health, wellbeing and independent living. From virtual reality sessions and smart glasses for people with visual impairments, through to carers’ support tools, balance-testing AI, esports and new adult care services, visitors will be able to see first-hand how technology is already helping people across our communities. Highlights include Dr Mu Mu from the University of Northampton, who will show how virtual reality can be used to improve wellbeing and mental health, and dbfb Communications who, in partnership with Iris IoT and Genus Care, will showcase assisted living technology and a pioneering Human Balance Sport and Wellbeing project where AI can test balance and suggest corrective exercises. Northamptonshire Carers Association will demonstrate BridgitCare, an AI-powered carers’ assessment and support planning tool, while Dr Lucy Zhu from the University of Northampton will explore how esports can help people build connections and improve mental health. Mavis Technologies will show how smart glasses are transforming accessibility for people with visual impairments, and Beam will introduce Magic Notes, an AI assessment tool that is already transforming how social workers record and share their work. Alongside businesses and local innovators, West Northamptonshire Council’s Adult Social Care and Innovation teams will be showcasing new tools such as Rose, an AI digital assistant available via WhatsApp to provide quick advice and support. The event is also a chance for residents to give feedback on these new ideas and help shape how they could be used more widely in the future. Library staff will also be on hand to help people make the most of the library’s own digital services, which are free to access for all members. “This event is about opening doors to what’s possible for everyone in our community. Technology is advancing rapidly, but it should empower us all, regardless of age, background, or experience. Whether you’re a carer, someone interested in improving your health and wellbeing, or simply curious about the latest innovations, you’ll find something valuable here. This is your opportunity to try out new tools, ask questions, and see first-hand how digital solutions can make daily life easier and more connected. Your feedback is important in shaping how these services evolve to meet local needs. I encourage all residents to join us, discover what’s on offer, and help us build a healthier, more inclusive future together.” Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate, and Regulatory Services Parking is free for three hours with options to extend your stay. The event is open to everyone, and no booking is required. To find out more visit Digital Northants website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 24, 2025

New Carers Guide launches to support thousands across Northamptonshire

24 September 2025 A brand-new Carers Guide has officially launched, offering vital information, support, and resources for unpaid carers across Northamptonshire. Developed in partnership with North Northamptonshire Council, West Northamptonshire Council, and the Integrated Care Board (ICB), and delivered by Northamptonshire Carers, the guide is a direct response to what carers said they needed most. Funded by the Accelerating Reform Fund, the guide was a Year 1 priority for both councils and the second most requested resource by the public, following the successful rollout of One Stop Shops. It reflects a shared commitment to improving support for carers and was co-produced with carers themselves to ensure it truly meets their needs. The guide is now live and available in multiple accessible formats, including: It is available in seven languages with the ability to be translated into others, and includes plain text for screen readers, ensuring accessibility for all. People are encouraged to share the guide widely to ensure it reaches every carer who may benefit. “This guide will provide an invaluable resource for carers in Northamptonshire. For the first time, we have a single, central resource that brings together the information and support carers need, clearly, accessibly, and in one place. It’s a direct result of listening to carers and acting on what they told us. We hope it makes a real difference in helping carers feel more informed, supported, and connected.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council “Whilst caring for a friend or loved one can be hugely rewarding, it can also bring with it a number of challenges. When you’re a carer, it can feel overwhelming and it’s easy to neglect your own health and wellbeing. This new guide provides all the information a carer needs to navigate these challenges and ensure they are fully supported every step of the way.” David Watts, Executive Director of Adults, Health Partnerships and Housing for North Northamptonshire Council “We are really proud to be able to launch this Guide for Carers with our partners. Carers are a vital part of our communities with their support and care of loved ones, and we hope this guide helps them to access the support they need and deserve.” Mark Major, Chief Executive Officer of Northamptonshire Carers Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 23, 2025

Ice rink to bring festive magic to West Northants this Christmas

23 September 2025 A brand-new covered real ice rink is set to bring festive sparkle to Northampton this winter, as plans are announced for a 14m x 22m rink in the town centre. The rink will be open from Thursday 4 December 2025 through to Sunday 4 January 2026 (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day), offering residents and visitors the chance to enjoy an unforgettable winter experience whatever the weather. The attraction will feature family-friendly and corporate ticket packages, possible themed DJ sessions, lessons and early-bird offers, with more details set to be confirmed soon. A licensed bar and supplementary festive activities will run alongside the rink to create a vibrant seasonal hub. Festive events will include: Christmas Lights Switch On, taking place on Saturday 22 November in the Market Square delivered by Northampton Town Council Small Business Saturday on Saturday 6 December, the dedicated national day to support local businesses, with a town-wide Grinch takeover led by Northampton BID “Carols on the Square” on Friday 13 December, with a local choir and singers Additional activities, including a festive grotto and further entertainment, soon to be announced as plans develop. The largescale ice rink is being delivered by West Northamptonshire Council in partnership with Northampton Town Council, Northampton BID and Discover Northamptonshire. Sponsorship opportunities are also open for local businesses keen to support and benefit from the event. Please email [email protected] for further information. "This is such an exciting addition to Northampton’s festive calendar. The ice rink will not only provide fun for families and visitors of all ages but will also give a real boost to our local economy, attracting people into the town centre to enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment. By working together with our partners, we’re creating a festive offer that really showcases the best of Northampton and supports our ambitions through Discover Northamptonshire to put the county on the map as a must-visit destination." Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure “Northampton Town Council is delighted to support the winter ice rink, which will give residents and visitors the chance to enjoy a wonderful festive experience in the heart of the town centre. “We begin the countdown to Christmas in Northampton on the 22nd November with the lights switch on and we’re excited to be working with West Northants Council and the Northampton Town BID to make this festive season the best yet.” Cllr Keith Holland-Delamere, Chair of the Community Services Committee Santa’s Grotto in the Grosvenor Centre will launch on Saturday 22 November, then open at weekends throughout December. Delivered by Northampton BID, supported by Northampton Town Council. The Northampton BID Golden Ticket giveaway, giving entrants the chance to win vouchers to spend in Northampton, will launch at the Fireworks event on November 1 and will run throughout November until 14 December. A dedicated Christmas radio station will run throughout December. Delivered by NLive Radio and supported by Northampton BID. “With the summer events season drawing to a conclusion, it’s now all systems go as we gear up for a cracker of a Christmas in our town centre. With Santa’s Grotto in the Grosvenor Centre, our ever-popular Golden Ticket giveaway and the addition of an impressive new ice rink in Market Square, we’d urge shoppers to get their skates on and put Northampton at the centre of their Christmas shopping experience this year.” Mark Mullen, operations manager at Northampton BID Full ticketing details, special offers and event information will be announced in the coming weeks, including early bird offers. Stay updated by following WNC's Facebook account . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 24, 2025

Nominate your 2025 West Northants male role models

24 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council are excited to announce that nominations are officially open for the 2025 Male Role Model Awards to celebrate local men and boys who have positively impacted our community. These awards are set out to raise awareness around men’s wellbeing and to shine a spotlight on acts of kindness, those that inspire others and have a positive impact on the lives of people in their communities or workplace. The Council are encouraging people to nominate an inspirational man or boy living in West Northamptonshire, who has made a meaningful difference either to them, our local community or in the workplace whether it be as a mentor, volunteer, leader or practical support. Nominations opened this week and are set to close on Sunday 26 October 2025. The finalists will be celebrated at an awards ceremony on Wednesday 19 November, coinciding with International Men's Day 2025. "As I humbly reflect on being recognised as WN Role Model of the Year 2024, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. This honour acknowledges the efforts of so many inspirational men in our community and highlights the importance of community service and the impact we can have as individuals. “Now it is time to shine the spotlight on an outstanding individual who has been making waves in our community through his tireless work and dedication. Winston Churchill once said... ‘we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give’. “I’m honoured to have been invited to be a part of the judging panel and we will be looking for a man who is selfless and wholeheartedly committed to empowering others - somebody that has demonstrated an altruistic quality and inspired the people who are familiar with his charitable and community based work. So I encourage the public to nominate like-minded individuals who have made a positive impact in West Northants. The unsung heroes and the compassionate souls. If you know someone that deserves this recognition, please don’t leave it to chance. Nominate them now!” Quinton, Winner of the 2024 Role Model of the Year Award for West Northants “Our Male Role Model awards offer an opportunity to recognise the men and boys who have made a positive impact across our communities—whether through kindness, encouragement or by inspiring others. It’s a chance to celebrate those who go the extra mile, whilst putting a spotlight on the importance of men’s health and wellbeing. “I encourage residents to nominate someone who has made a real difference. We’re excited to hear the uplifting stories from across West Northants and to shine a light on the individuals who help make our communities stronger.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities To submit a nomination please visit the form here . Please note all individuals nominated must be living or working in West Northamptonshire Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 22, 2025

Celebrating local tourism - Northamptonshire Tourism Awards now open for entries

22 September 2025 Discover Northamptonshire, the county’s official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), has today launched the Northamptonshire Tourism Awards 2025 - inviting businesses from across the county to showcase their achievements and innovation. The launch of the awards follows on from the major success and economic boost to the visitor economy for Northamptonshire as a result of hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup. With 13 award categories ranging from ‘large hotel of the year’ to ‘small visitor attraction’ and ‘pub of the year’, there’s plenty of opportunities for tourism and hospitality businesses to get involved. The awards focus on celebrating businesses and attractions that pull in visitors far and wide, recognising the hard work by all to maximise visitor experience. Applications are now open and must be submitted by 14 November and finalists will be revealed early in the New Year. “We’re proud to champion Northamptonshire’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sector, which plays a vital role in shaping the county’s identity and economy. These awards not only celebrate business excellence but also recognise the wider social impact these organisations have - bringing communities together, enhancing wellbeing, and fostering local pride. We’re also incredibly grateful to the partners and sponsors who will help make these awards possible and ensure the county’s visitor economy continues to shine.” Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire LVEP “Northamptonshire is rich with cultural and natural treasures and is full of exceptional tourism businesses from village pubs through to larger attractions. It’s only right that we shine a light on these businesses and the Northamptonshire Tourism Awards will do just that with the winners in each category being automatically qualifying for the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. “I would encourage all to take a look at the information online and apply - I am so looking forward to hearing more about the fantastic businesses we have in the local area.” Kerry Purnell, North Northamptonshire Council’s assistant director for communities and leisure “Northamptonshire has so much to celebrate, and showcasing our local businesses on a national stage is exactly the kind of impact the LVEP was created to deliver. We are fully committed to maximising the potential of our visitor economy and enhancing the experience for everyone who comes here - because we know Northamptonshire has what it takes to be recognised as a world-class destination. “Building on the incredible spotlight the Women’s Rugby World Cup has shone on our area, these new awards are a fantastic opportunity to highlight the businesses and attractions that make our county stand out. I encourage every business and organisation to get involved and help us celebrate the innovation, passion and dedication that continue to put Northamptonshire firmly on the map.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council Once applications close, the first round of judging will commence and shortlisted businesses will then be visited by mystery shoppers at the end of November through to mid-December. Finalists will be announced in early January with an awards event being organised in March 2026, to tie in with English Tourism Week. More details to be announced soon. Winners in each of the 13 categories will automatically qualify for the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, the national benchmark for tourism success. These awards shine a spotlight on the very best of England’s tourism industry - recognising outstanding achievements in quality, innovation, and customer service. Winning one of these coveted awards not only confirms a business as a national leader, but also opens doors to valuable media coverage, enhanced business development, and exclusive networking opportunities. Full details on categories, entry criteria, deadlines and how to apply, visit the Discover Northamptonshire website . Stay updated by following Discover Northamptonshire on LinkedIn and join the conversation using #DNTA26. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 22, 2025

Booking system coming soon for Household Waste Recycling Centres in West Northants

22 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is introducing a new booking system for its six Household Waste and Recycling Centres (HWRCs) to help reduce queues, ease pressure on surrounding roads, and ensure a smoother experience for local residents. The new booking system will commence on Monday, 3 November. Residents will be able to start booking slots from Monday, 20 October. This will apply to all HWRCs across the area, which now benefit from a seven-day opening as part of wider service improvements following a new contract with FCC Environment that started in April of this year. Only those who live in West Northamptonshire will be able to access the sites. Bookings can be made quickly and easily online via our website 24/7. Those unable to access the website, can book by calling the Council on 0300 126 7000 . Bookings can be made up to 2 weeks in advance or on the day at least 30 minutes before arrival, and it is simple to do so online. Trade customers and those will live outside the area will have the option to pay to use the service, but this cannot be done through the booking system. More information on this is available on the Council’s website. The introduction of this new system will: P revent long queues, especially during busy periods like bank holidays Reduce disruption to nearby homes, businesses and highways Ensure fair access for West Northamptonshire residents "We know that the introduction of this new system may take some residents time to get used to but it is designed to make visits to our recycling centres a more pleasant and efficient experience. “We’ve listened to feedback from people about the access to sites and queues and by managing demand and making sure that those using the facilities live in West Northamptonshire, we can reduce traffic, improve safety, and ensure our sites are used fairly and responsibly. “We want to encourage as many people as possible to recycle their waste and dispose of it properly, and with many other local authorities across the country already using or introducing booking systems, we’re confident that this will be benefit residents accessing these services.” Cllr Nigel Stansfield, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste Members of the public do not need to book a slot to visit or donate to the re-use shops at Sixfields and Farthinghoe HWRCs. For more information, visit our HWRCs booking webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 19, 2025

Residents invited to help shape the future of Northampton Museum & Art Gallery

19 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is inviting residents, community groups, and visitors to have their say on the future of Northampton Museum & Art Gallery as part of an exciting new potential development. Feedback gathered through a public survey will form a vital part of a bid of up to £10 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. If successful, the funding will help the museum to reimagine how its world-class collections and unique stories are shared, celebrated, and preserved for future generations. The survey asks participants to share their views on how West Northamptonshire’s history, art, and identity can be better reflected in the museum - from its world-famous shoe and leathercraft collection to local stories, the natural world, and beyond. We want to explore new ways of sharing West Northamptonshire’s history and identity. From world-famous shoes and leathercraft to local stories - including our Histories of Northamptonshire exhibition, the museum holds collections that deserve to be celebrated and experienced. This survey is about how those stories are told, and how more people can play a part. Your views will help us make sure the museum reflects the culture of Northampton today while caring for and increasing access to its wonderful collections for the future. I encourage everyone to share their thoughts. Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure The survey is open until Monday 13 October and can be completed online or in person at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 19, 2025

Council begins early work to tackle 2026–27 budget gap

19 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Administration has highlighted the difficult choices that will be needed as the authority works to bridge an estimated £50m shortfall in its budget for next year. The Council is currently forecasting the gap in its revenue budget for 2026-27 – the money it spends on the day-to-day running of services. In essence, the level of funding has not kept pace with our 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. This means we have to find more efficiencies to balance our budget. Action is under way to identify more savings and efficiencies that will seek to address the shortfall, which equates to around 10% of its overall budget, so that the Council can balance the books for the next financial year. Like all councils across the country, WNC continues to face significant financial pressures annually and has already found £115m of savings since its creation over four years ago. When the new Administration took over in May, we could see the huge scale of financial challenges inherited and how the Council had continued to make significant savings year upon year. But we can also see that demand and costs to meet that demand escalate each year with two-thirds of our annual budget funding statutory services that protect our most vulnerable children and adults. As the Council benchmarks well in terms of its cost of delivery this makes closing next year’s budget gap even harder and possibly the most difficult to date. Tough choices lie ahead. But our top priority will always continue to be protecting essential services, wherever possible, and continuing to deliver the value for money that our residents rightfully expect. Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council We’ve started work on identifying and shaping proposals for next year’s draft budget to help us bridge the shortfall, which includes exploring further savings and efficiencies and looking at how we can be more consistent in our approach to things like fees and charges for discretionary services. There is also some uncertainty as we await the outcome of the Government’s Fair Funding consultation, which will provide greater clarity on funding and future budgets. While we are hopeful this will reflect the significant rise in our population and demand, the final position will not be known until mid-December, and we need to press on and be prudent in our approach in the meantime. We’ll leave no stone unturned in our budget work and by doing so we may need to consider proposals that not everyone will agree with, but it’s important we review every option to address these significant challenges. Cllr John Slope, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Finance We’ll be developing proposals over the coming months, with the draft 2026–27 budget due to go to Cabinet in December. Residents will then have the chance to give their views during public consultation before the final budget is agreed by Council in February. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 19, 2025

Plans progress to convert disused site into 18 new affordable homes

19 September 2025 Plans to transform a disused former Care Home into 18 much-needed affordable homes have been given the go ahead by West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet at their meeting yesterday (18 September). The scheme, located in Ecton Brook, Northampton, will deliver a blend of 12 homes for social rent and 6 for shared ownership, helping to meet the high demand for affordable housing across the area. The project forms part of the Council’s Affordable Homes Delivery Plan , which is focused on providing more homes that people can genuinely afford. With more than 1,000 new affordable homes needed in West Northamptonshire every year, the new scheme will make an important contribution to tackling local housing pressures. Work is already underway to prepare the site, with demolition and asbestos removal funded by a £200,000 grant from the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund. Construction of the new homes is expected to begin following a procurement process later this year, with completion anticipated in Spring 2027. The development will be built to modern, sustainable standards, featuring air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points to help keep running costs down for residents while reducing environmental impact. This is a really positive step forward, making the best use of a disused site to create high-quality affordable family homes for local people. By maximising the number of social rent properties, we’re ensuring that some of the households most in need will benefit from secure, genuinely affordable housing. This is another important milestone in our mission to deliver the homes people need and can afford across West Northamptonshire. Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing at WNC The scheme will be funded through a combination of Homes England grant support and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) borrowing, with the Council also agreeing to transfer the site at a reduced land value to ensure the homes remain affordable. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 18, 2025

Council’s One Stop Shop to welcome residents at One Angel Square from 25 September

18 September 2025 From Thursday 25 September, West Northamptonshire Council’s customer services One Stop Shop will officially open its doors at One Angel Square, Northampton, providing residents with a modern, welcoming place to access help and advice. The move from the Guildhall marks a big step in bringing council services and local support partners together under one roof, making it quicker and easier for people to get what they need in one visit. The new location is easily accessed via the St John’s Street entrance, just a short walk from the bus station and other town centre amenities. Alongside West Northants Council teams like Housing Options, Wellbeing, and Adult Social Care, the new One Stop Shop will provide access, advice and signposting to a range of key local partners including Citizens Advice, Community Law Service, Jobcentre Plus, Migrant Help, NDAS, and Northampton Town FC Community Trust. Together, they’ll offer advice on a range of queries our residents may have including benefits support, legal support, domestic abuse help, health checks, EU Settlement Scheme support, and employability skills, all under one roof. This change is part of the Council’s wider work to use public buildings more efficiently and improve the way services are delivered. The new One Stop Shop at One Angel Square will be offering a more accessible environment, with modern self-serve areas whilst offering joined-up support from council and community partners. The new space was designed to give customers a better experience, whether they're popping in to ask about council tax, looking for housing support, or speaking to someone about benefits, health, or general advice. We’re excited to welcome residents to the new One Stop Shop from 25 September. This move is all about making life simpler, a place where you can come in, speak to the right people, and leave knowing you’ve had the help you need. By creating a more modern and accessible space, we’re not only improving the experience for residents but also using our buildings more efficiently so that we can keep investing in frontline services. Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate, and Regulatory Services Residents can still access many council services online 24/7, and drop-in sessions continue to run across West Northamptonshire for those who prefer local support. Details of all these options are available on the Monthly drop-in sessions page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 17, 2025

Histories of Northamptonshire brings 150 million years of stories to life at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery

17 September 2025 Northampton Museum & Art Gallery will unveil a landmark exhibition this autumn, A History of Northamptonshire in 100 Objects, as part of the wider Histories of Northamptonshire project. Opening on Saturday 20 September 2025 and running until 8 February 2026, the exhibition takes visitors on a fascinating journey through 150 million years of the county’s past. From prehistoric fossils to modern innovations, 100 remarkable objects have been handpicked to tell the stories of the people, industries and events that shaped Northamptonshire’s cultural, social and economic heritage. This unique exhibition has been developed with the help of 51 guest curators from across the county - including historians, collectors, and community groups – who have worked alongside the museum team to select objects and craft narratives that reflect the diverse voices of Northamptonshire. Alongside the exhibition, visitors and residents can enjoy: A 100-episode podcast series, hosted by broadcaster John Griff, uncovering the hidden stories and secrets behind each object. The Histories of Northamptonshire website, featuring an interactive timeline and opportunities for the public to contribute their own stories. The Explore Northampton app, turning phones into personal history guides with audio tours, augmented reality experiences, and trails across the county. Beyond the 100, a county-wide programme of displays in museums, libraries and community venues, linking local treasures back to the exhibition. Talks, workshops, and live demonstrations, led by guest curators and experts, giving people the chance to dive deeper into Northamptonshire’s heritage. A beautifully illustrated companion book, featuring all 100 objects with stunning photography and stories, available to buy from the museum gift shop for £9.99. “Histories of Northamptonshire is an extraordinary celebration of the stories, people and places that define our county. “By working with communities and curators from every corner of Northamptonshire, this project ensures our heritage is shared in a way that is inclusive, engaging and truly reflective of the county we call home. I’d encourage everyone to visit the museum between 20 September and 22 February 2026 to experience it for themselves.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of WNC and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure The project is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. For more information and to explore the full events programme, visit the museum website . “Northamptonshire boasts a vibrant and varied history. This new exhibition captures 100 objects handpicked by community groups, collectors and historians to tell the stories of the people, industries and events which shaped the county’s cultural, economic and social heritage. “It’s been a privilege, not only to join them in this celebration, but to have introduced the exhibition’s accompanying podcast series.” Liz Johnson, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 18, 2025

Planning application for new Kettering fire station now live

The planning application for a brand-new fire station in Kettering is now live and, if approved, would deliver modern and fit-for-purpose facilities for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s firefighters. Submitted for decision to North Northamptonshire Council, the application outlines plans for a purpose-built station on Cherry Hall Road, located next to the joint Fire and Police Northern Accommodation Building and Weekley Woods Justice Centre. The planning application says that there will be a purpose-built fire station, a 203-square-metre storage building, and a four-storey fire training tower—designed to support both operational readiness and firefighter development. If permission is granted, this new facility would replace the current station on the Headlands, which has been in use since 1955. While the existing site has served the community for many years, it no longer meets the demands of modern firefighting. Access and parking challenges at the Headlands can delay emergency response, and the building itself falls short of current standards for working conditions and crew welfare. As stated on the planning submission, the new station would offer improved access to major routes, helping crews respond more quickly and efficiently. It would feature a larger bay with more space for fire engines, upgraded welfare facilities including toilets, showers and changing rooms, and eight individual dormitories to support privacy and dignity for a diverse workforce. The proposed layout has also been designed to safely manage equipment exposed to contaminants, in line with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) best practice. Located on land owned by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, the planned project reflects ongoing investment in the fire estate across Northamptonshire and is part of a wider strategy to ensure that fire service facilities across the county meet the evolving needs of the workforce and the communities they serve. While the planning application progresses, wholetime and on-call crews continue to operate from the current station as usual. The live planning application for the new Kettering fire station can be viewed on the North Northamptonshire Council planning portal under reference number: 25/00807/FUL .

September 16, 2025

Residents reminded to re-apply for postal voting arrangements

16 September 2025 Residents across West Northamptonshire are being reminded that if they want to carry on voting by post in future elections, they may need to re-apply to keep their arrangements in place. Postal vote registrations are valid for up to three years. If you applied for a postal vote before 31 October 2023, you must re-apply by 31 January 2026 to ensure you can carry on voting by post. Anyone who applied on or after 31 October 2023 will not need to re-apply until nearer their renewal date. From September through to January 2026, the Council will be contacting residents who applied for a postal vote before 31 October 2023. These reminders will be sent by text message, email, or letter, depending on the contact details provided. It is important that residents know how to check the authenticity of these reminders. Genuine text messages and emails from the Council will clearly state that they are about postal vote re-application, and will direct residents to trusted websites such as GOV.UK or the Council’s official site: westnorthants.co.uk. Residents can re-apply online via GOV.UK, download a form, or request a paper application directly from the Council. To vote by post at an election, applications must be received by 5pm, 11 working days before polling day. "Voting by post offers a convenient way to have your say, but it’s important to remember that your registration does not last forever. We want to make sure that everyone who wants to vote by post is able to do so, which is why we are contacting residents well in advance to remind them to re-apply. If you receive a reminder text or email, please follow the guidance provided to renew your application easily and securely." Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive and Electoral Registration Officer for West Northamptonshire Council If you applied for a postal vote before 31 October 2023 and do not re-apply by 31 January 2026, your postal vote will be cancelled. You will still be able to vote in person at your local polling station. For More information visit www.westnorthants.gov.uk/postalvote. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 15, 2025

Two new centres expand adult learning opportunities in Northamptonshire

15 September 2025 Northamptonshire Adult Learning Service (NALS) has opened two brand-new learning centres in Northampton and Towcester, expanding opportunities for adults across the county to learn, upskill and thrive. Funded through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) - delivered locally by West Northamptonshire Council, this investment will enable NALS to expand its reach and provide an even wider choice of courses for residents. The modern, town centre-based hubs feature purpose-designed classrooms and resources, providing welcoming and accessible spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds to continue their learning journey. While NALS will continue to use community venues across the county, the new centres will make it possible to run a wider range of courses, at more times of the day, giving adults greater flexibility to fit learning around busy lives. “These new centres mark an exciting step forward for adult education in West Northamptonshire and the wider county. They will provide residents with high-quality, accessible spaces to learn new skills, build confidence, and take positive steps in their personal and professional lives. Adult learning has the power to open doors and create opportunities, and I’m proud that we’re investing in resources that will support people right across our communities.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure NALS is already welcoming learners into the new centres, with immediate availability on a wide variety of courses. From brushing up on core skills like English and Maths, to learning English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), gaining Digital Skills, exploring Health & Wellbeing, or boosting Professional Development, there is something for everyone. Many courses are offered free of charge to residents, making learning more accessible than ever. Alongside new knowledge and skills, learners often find their studies bring wider benefits - from growing confidence and meeting new people, to unlocking new career opportunities. To explore the full range of courses and find out more about NALS, visit the Northamptonshire Adult Learning Service website or call 0300 303 1058. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 15, 2025

Record-breaking day as 1,500 runners shine at Amazing Northampton Run

15 September 2025 It was a record breaking day at yesterday's Amazing Northampton Run as almost 1,500 runners took to the town's streets. The star performer was Rugby & Northampton Athletic Club's Luke Greer, who won the half-marathon in a course record of one hour, seven minutes and seven seconds. His club colleagues, Matthew Everitt and Ned Gilford, came second and third respectively, while Katie Godof won the women's race in one hour, 22 minutes and 57 seconds. Vocal crowds of supporters filled the route, which passed town landmarks including its three sporting stadia, All Saints' Church and Abington Park. The event started and finished at the revamped Market Square, providing runners and supporters with a brilliant backdrop for their pre- and post- run selfies. Meanwhile, the three mile run was won by 12-year-old Rose Tannasee in a mind-blowing 21 minutes and 42 seconds, and Clowne Road Runners came first in the relay race. "It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying our town centre and putting in such incredible performances. "While we like to celebrate the achievements of our podium finishers and it was incredible to see Luke finish in such a fast time, we see everyone who completes one of our events as a winner. "For many people, getting to the start line is success in its own right and whether you finish in just over an hour or more than three, completing a half-marathon is a wonderful achievement." Simon Hollis, from organiser Go Beyond Challenge Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 16, 2025

West Northants Council to proactively target inward investment and drive innovation

16 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is increasing efforts to secure inward investment into the area as part of its Economic Growth Strategy, focusing on sectors that deliver cutting-edge technologies, high-value jobs, and long-term prosperity. Businesses looking to invest, expand or relocate in West Northamptonshire now have access to a powerful new resource. The Invest in West Northants website has launched a Commercial Property Search Tool , making it easier than ever to identify quality land and premises across the area. This new tool underpins the Council’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The West Northants Economic Growth Strategy sets out a bold vision for ‘a Thriving West Northants - a place of opportunity and growth for all; a must-invest destination, driving cutting-edge technologies, enabling innovation and enhancing UK plc.’ Strategically positioned in the heart of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor, West Northamptonshire is already home to more than 19,000 businesses and a growing population of over 425,000 people. To boost jobs, skills, and productivity, the Council is targeting inward investment across key growth sectors, including: Advanced Manufacturing Life Sciences Clean Energy Advanced Logistics Motorsport Creative and Digital Industries Experience Economy Foundation Economy The new Commercial Property Search Tool will further support these priority sectors by enabling businesses to: Search available office, industrial, retail, mixed-use properties, and land Filter results by location, size, and type Access detailed property information and contact agents directly Explore development opportunities on both greenfield and brownfield sites “This tool is a key enabler of our Economic Growth Strategy, helping to increase business formation, attract new investment, and support the expansion of high-value sectors. It will help unlock the area’s potential and strengthen our ambition to become the beating heart of the UK’s technology revolution “Our Inward Investment & Business Growth Team is proactively showcasing West Northamptonshire as a must-invest destination where businesses can innovate and thrive. We are committed to creating an ecosystem where every business can grow, supported by free, expert guidance. I encourage every business in West Northants - and those considering relocating here - to get in touch with the team today.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure An example of high-profile quality investment locating into West Northants, Marks & Spencer have recently announced a £340m investment at the Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal. “The investment announced by Marks & Spencer marks a significant moment for logistics in West Northamptonshire, setting new benchmarks for automation, sustainable development and long-term inclusive growth. Our partnership reflects a shared ambition to deliver economic value, skills and opportunity. “The development enables a future-fit supply chain for M&S and brings lasting economic value to West Northamptonshire through skilled jobs, resilient infrastructure and investment in one of the UK’s most important logistics locations. It's also a prime example of what’s possible when forward-thinking councils like West Northamptonshire actively enable growth and innovation. Their proactive, solutions-focused approach was instrumental in securing this major inward investment.” Paul Weston, Regional Head of Prologis UK For more information or to explore commercial opportunities, visit the Invest in West Northants website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 16, 2025

Recruitment opens for people to apply to become wholetime firefighters in Northamptonshire

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is hiring new firefighters – do you have what it takes to help keep our county safe? Being a firefighter is more than just fighting fires. New recruits will play a vital role in promoting fire safety in their local communities, carrying out prevention and protection work, and helping vulnerable residents stay safe from danger through Home Fire Safety Visits. When called to an emergency, they will respond to a whole host of incidents ranging from house fires to road traffic collisions, wildfires to animal rescues, and dealing with chemical hazards. [embedded content] The window for those looking to start a rewarding career in the Fire Service is now open, with applicants able to apply until the deadline of 10am on October 13 by clicking here . Sophia Perkins, aged 24, (pictured below) applied to become a wholetime firefighter in January 2024 after wanting to pursue a career where every day is different. After going to a ‘Have A Go’ day, she left feeling inspired that it was the right job for her. Almost two years on, Sophia has nearly finished her course to become a fully qualified firefighter at Kettering Fire Station. She said: “Firefighting is a career built on teamwork and public service where every shift brings the opportunity to safeguard lives and support people needing help. “But it’s a job that’s more than responding to emergencies — it’s about protecting and preventing harm before it happens, supporting your community in meaningful ways, and growing through the strength of your team.” She added: “To anyone wanting to join, make sure you balance your strength training with running to improve your endurance. Being physically fit is one of the main criteria for joining the Service – and it gives you huge confidence.” Successful candidates would start their journey with the Fire Service in May 2026, joining their station in the summer. From there, they will also take on a two-year qualification course that teaches them the basics of firefighting, which will give them valuable transferable skills for the rest of their careers. Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson (pictured below) said: “A modern Fire and Rescue Service responds to a huge variety of incidents, and that means no two days will be the same as a firefighter. “Northamptonshire Fire plays a critical role in keeping the county safe, actively engaging with its local communities to promote safety and prevent incidents from happening in the first place. “We’re looking for people who have the right attitude and are determined to make a difference by serving their local communities.” To become an apprentice wholetime firefighter, you must: have a full car driving licence valid for the UK be able to permanently live and work in the UK without any restrictions be aged 18 years old at the start of the training course in May 2026 Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service particularly wants to attract people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life to apply and help ensure the county’s Fire Service truly represents the people it serves. If you wish to find out more about the recruitment process, including the job description, then an information pack can be downloaded here .

September 15, 2025

West Northants shines as thousands flock to Women’s Rugby World Cup matches and Fan Zones

15 September 2025 West Northamptonshire has played a starring role in this year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup, with host venue Northampton’s Franklin’s Gardens attracting thousands of spectators, and Fan Zones in Northampton Market Square drawing record-breaking crowds. More than 48,500 fans attended six matches at Franklin’s Gardens, creating a fantastic atmosphere and strong support for the tournament. The impact has also been felt beyond the stadium, seeing the town centre buzzing with activity and delivering a significant boost for the local economy. The popular Fan Zones offered residents and visitors the chance to soak up the tournament atmosphere and created a genuine festival feel right in the heart of Northampton. Along with Northampton Music Festival and Movies on the Square, these events helped bring the community together to celebrate world-class sport, music, and entertainment. This impact has been strongly reflected in footfall figures, with the Grosvenor Shopping Centre welcoming more than 120,000 people in the first week of September - the highest number outside of the busy December period for over 18 months, and a 20% rise compared with the same week last year. The tournament has also delivered a significant boost for local hospitality and businesses , with four international teams staying in West Northamptonshire, seeing hotels benefitting from long-term team stays of up to a month. Thousands of additional visitors have also been filling local hotels, booking restaurants, and supporting high street businesses, leaving a positive lasting impact on the local economy. Looking ahead, West Northamptonshire Council is preparing to build on this momentum by hosting a major celebration event in Northampton Market Square if England’s Red Roses secure their place in the final on Saturday 27 September. The event will take place from midday to 7pm and feature: Big screen showing the match live Free family friendly activities Local DJ to help create a party atmosphere Food and drink stalls Licensed bar area for fans to enjoy the game in a vibrant, festival atmosphere The celebration will provide residents and visitors with another chance to come together, cheer on England, and showcase the unique community spirit of West Northants. “The Women’s Rugby World Cup has been a real highlight for West Northamptonshire, and it has been a privilege to host such a significant sporting event. We’ve seen a positive impact across our town centres, with a welcome boost for local businesses and the wider economy. Events like this really demonstrate the value of bringing international sport to West Northants. “The success of the tournament is thanks to the fantastic volunteers and everyone who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Their dedication has ensured everything ran smoothly and helped create a real sense of community pride. We’re now looking forward to the prospect of celebrating an England final with a special event in Market Square - come on you Red Roses!” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Take a look back at some tournament highlights on the Women’s Rugby World Cup webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 15, 2025

Put falls prevention into practice

15 September 2025 Put falls prevention into practice Falls Prevention Awareness Week returns from 15–19 September 2025. The national campaign aims to empower older adults and those at risk to take proactive steps to reduce their chances of falling. Most falls are preventable, and this year’s theme aims to raise awareness of putting prevention into action. Each year about one-third of all people over age 65 will fall. The consequences can be significant, particularly for older people. However, falls are not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things you can do to help reduce the risk of falling. Sir Muir Gray, a prominent figure in UK public health, known for his work in the National Health Service (NHS) and his focus on value-based healthcare has shared his top tips on staying active in later life. Click here to view his top tips and advice to live better longer. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, at West Northants Council said: “As we age, maintaining strength, balance, and mobility becomes increasingly important, not just for wellbeing, but for maintaining our independence. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence among older adults, but they can be preventable. “Our fantastic Falls Prevention Team can help you (and your family) assess your needs, discuss your issues and work with you to remain independent at home for as long as possible. Get Up and Go classes are a fun and social way to stay active, improve balance, rebuild confidence and learn techniques to help you stay safe on your feet. I've been to one or two of these Get Up and Go classes myself and can highly recommend them. You can refer yourself to the service so they can work with you to offer personalised advice and support to help you stay steady on your feet and remain independent at home.” The West Northants Falls Management Service will be out in the community throughout the week, offering advice, support, and practical tips to help residents stay steady on their feet. Two team members will be present at each location, and home visits will also be carried out for clients on the waiting list. Come and speak to the Falls Management Service team at the following venues: Brackley Library – Tuesday 16 September, 12:30pm–3pm Towcester Library – Thursday 18 September, 12pm–4pm Moulton Community Centre – Friday 19 September, 10am–12pm These sessions offer a chance to ask questions, get personalised advice, and learn more about how to reduce your risk of falling, whether through exercise, home adaptations, or lifestyle changes. Jackie Browne, Strategic Director (Communities & Health) at Northamptonshire Sport said: “While many people believe that falling is an unavoidable part of growing older, this isn’t true. One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk is through regular strength and balance exercise. Building strength not only helps to prevent falls and reduce frailty, but it also supports mobility, confidence, independence and can even help people live longer, healthier lives. "Our Get Up & Go programme provides specialist classes for older adults across Northamptonshire. With over 80 sessions running each week and more than 1,000 participants, these classes give people the skills to stay active in sessions and at home. By making strength training a regular habit from mid-life onwards, people can stay stronger for longer and keep living life to the fullest.” The Steady On Your Feet website offers self-assessment tools, tips, and personalised action plans to help individuals stay active and independent. You can also explore Get Up & Go classes, which improve strength, balance, and confidence, and are available across West Northamptonshire. To learn more or make a referral, visit the Falls Management Service page Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 12, 2025

Amazing Northampton Run attracts elite Kenyan athlete

12 September 2025 Spectators at this year's Amazing Northampton Run could be treated to atruly elite performance. Organisers Go Beyond Challenge have today confirmed that elite Kenyan runner, Philip Kipkemoi Kiprono, will take part in the event on Sunday 14 September 2025. Kiprono, who won the 2021 Vancouver Half-Marathon in an eye watering time of one hour, seven minutes and 43 seconds, will have an eye on the course record of one hour, 11 minutes 45 seconds - set by Rugby & Northampton Athletic Club's Ben Musgrove in 2014. His team are even hopeful he could record a time as fast as one hour, five minutes. The Amazing Northampton Run's half-marathon starts at 9.30am on Sunday, with the event also featuring a relay and a three-mile race. This year, it will be commemorating the Great Fire of Northampton which ravaged the town 350 years ago.Much of the impressive architecture in the town centre now, rose out of the ashes of that fire. “We are excited to welcome Philip to Northampton to take part in The Amazing Northampton Run. “It is a tribute to the growing attraction of our race, and of Northampton generally, that we are able to attract such a talented, international athlete. “Of course, this run is about everyone and I'll be cheering ever person home whatever their time. To complete a half-marathon is a fantastic achievement and I can't wait to see so many people take this challenge on.“ Simon Hollis, from Go Beyond Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 11, 2025

Parents urged to ensure their children are up to date with vaccines this winter

11 September 2025 With the start of the new school year, parents of children and young people are being encouraged by West Northamptonshire Council’s public health team to ensure children are up to date with their vaccinations. Vaccinations are offered as part of the National Programme and help support your child’s immune system and protect them against preventable illnesses. The cooler weather will mean everyone spends more time indoors, which can lead to an increase in the spread of viruses and infections. The vaccination schedule for school aged children and young people includes: 4-in-1 pre-school booster: offered to children aged 3 years and 4 months to protect against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (pertussis) and polio Flu: available to children from Reception up to year 11, annually from September. Available through school-based clinics, or community clinics provided by the School Aged Immunisation Service, or from your child’s GP COVID-19: offered to children aged 6 months and upwards, who are immunosuppressed, from September HPV: offered to pupils in year 8 and helps to protect against the development of some of the common high-risk cancers caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus) MMR: protects against Measles, Mumps and Rubella, offered to pupils in year 8 who are not already vaccinated 3-in-1 Booster: available toyear 9 pupils to protect against Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio (DTaP) Men ACWY: protects against Meningococcal A, C W, and Y which can cause meningitis and septicaemia, offered to pupils in year 9 Chicken pox : From January 2026, children aged between 6 and 11 years who have not had chicken pox, will be invited to get a vaccination to protect against the infection via their GP. Children and young people who are immunosuppressed or have long-term health conditions may be offered additional vaccinations. When your child is eligible, they will be invited to attend a clinic. This may be held at their school, a GP surgery, or a community setting. “Vaccinations play a vital role in protecting children and young people from a range of preventable illnesses, particularly as we approach the winter months when viruses tend to circulate more widely. We recognise that some parents and carers may have questions or feel uncertain, and we encourage to have a conversation with your healthcare professional to help make informed decisions about available vaccinations. If your child is invited for a vaccination, we strongly encourage you to take up the offer. If you believe they may have missed any, please contact your GP to discuss the next steps. Ensuring children are up to date with their vaccinations is one of the most effective ways we can support their health and wellbeing." Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care & Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council For further detail regarding vaccinations, please visit the Immunisations webpage or contact your child’s GP. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 11, 2025

It’s time to apply for your child’s school place for September 2026

11 September 2025 Parents and carers of children living in West Northamptonshire can now apply for a reception place in a primary or infant school, a year 3 place in a junior school, or a Year 7 place in a secondary school, for the September 2026 intake. Parents and carers can apply for a place in reception if their child will be four years old on or before 31 August 2026. The closing date for applications for places in reception (and year 3 at junior school) is 15 January 2026 at midnight. The closing date for applications for Year 7 places is 31 October 2025 at midnight. All applications, whether postal or online, must be received by the closing date to be considered as on time. Late applications will not be processed until after National Offer Days and will be processed in monthly rounds. All on-time applicants will receive an offer of a school place on National Offer Days – 2 March 2026 for secondary places and 16 April 2026 for reception/junior school places. Applicants will then be provided with information on the next stage of the process. There is a separate application process for children who have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, details of which can be found on the SEND admissions page . "Choosing a school place for your child is such a big moment in their educational journey - whether it’s for Reception, Year 3 or Year 7. Each stage brings new experiences and excitement and it's important to find the right fit for your family. “Please do take the time to read through how the process works, which you can find on our schools admission page along with other useful resources. We’re here to help make this decision as smooth and informed as possible.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council An independent admission appeals process is available for families who wish to appeal against refusal of a place at any school for which they have applied. To find out more about applying for a school place in West Northamptonshire and to submit an application, visit the schools admissions page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 11, 2025

Council works to tackle in-year budget pressures

11 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is working hard to keep its books balanced despite continued financial pressures and rising demand for key services. In February the Council set a revenue budget for 2025-26 of £431.8 million (excluding the Dedicated Schools Grant), having initially started the budgetary process last summer with an anticipated £53m gap which it managed to close. In its latest budget monitoring update going to Cabinet later this month, WNC is currently forecasting a £9.6m overspend this year, equivalent to just over 2% of its budget, due to ongoing financial pressures in key services such as children’s, education and adults. The update, based in the authority’s finances four months into the 2025-26 financial year, provides an early snapshot of the Council’s in-year challenges and work is already under way towards closing the gap by the end of March 2026. Last year the Council also found itself forecasting overspends at various points of the budgetary process, however finished the financial year on budget. “With limited funding and resources coupled with a continued rise in demand for the services supporting our most vulnerable residents, we’re finding it a real challenge to keep our books balanced this year. “Although it’s not unusual to forecast an overspend at certain points of the year given our ongoing financial pressures, it’s always concerning and a top priority for us to close this 2% gap by year end. “Every year our Council, like authorities across the country, faces significant financial pressures from the ongoing government squeeze on public sector budgets and we know there’s going to be more to come next year. That’s why we’re starting the work now on next year’s budget-setting process to identify further savings and efficiencies that will help us to protect essential services and deliver better value for money.” Councillor John Slope, Finance Cabinet Member The Council’s revenue monitoring and medium-term financial plan will be the subject of discussion at the Cabinet meeting on Thursday, 18 September in the Forum, Towcester from 6pm. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 10, 2025

Males across Northamptonshire share their mental health experiences

10 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is reaffirming its commitment to suicide prevention and mental health support by launching a powerful new campaign focused on male mental health, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September 2025. In partnership with North Northamptonshire Council, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of male mental health, reduce stigma, and promote access to local and national support services. It highlights real stories from local males, encouraging open conversations and offering messages of hope. Watch a video of males discussing their mental health experiences Suicide remains a leading cause of death among males, accounting for around three-quarters of all suicides in the UK. In Northamptonshire, approximately 65 individuals take their own life each year, with males aged 40–60 being statistically at higher risk. Every death by suicide is one too many. We know that males, particularly those aged 40–60, are statistically at higher risk. This campaign is about breaking the silence, sharing lived experiences, and ensuring that support is visible and accessible to all. We want to enable and empower males to reach out, speak up, seek support, and build community. Whether you're facing bereavement, addiction, employment or financial difficulties, relationship struggles or feeling completely overwhelmed - there are services available and ready to help, without judgement. It takes just one small but incredibly important first step - reach out and seek help. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council Suicide is a tragedy, for the person, their family and the wider community. Men's mental health struggles often go unrecognised or undiagnosed, and in addition to this there is often widespread stigma and misunderstanding surrounding suicide. I welcome this new campaign and the conversation around this issue. The men involved have been brave in talking about their experiences and offer hope to those who are currently experiencing feelings of despair. There is professional help on offer in Northamptonshire and the further we can spread this message, the better for all of us. Jane Bethea, Director of Public Health, Communities and Leisure at North Northamptonshire Council A wide range of free and confidential support services are available across Northamptonshire, including: Call the mental health number on 0800 448 0828 any time for urgent help or advice. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Text 07480 635531 to speak to the Chathealth service for support, available 24/7. Visit a crisis café, with locations across the county offering safe, calm environments with trained staff. Northamptonshire Talking Therapies , complete an online self-referral for counselling and psychological support. Peer-led groups: Including Andy’s Man Club, Space2TALK, SENDS4Dad, and Men Who Talk. Click here to find out more and access the male mental health service directory. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 08, 2025

Deconstruction of former stores under way

08 September 2025 The regeneration of Northampton town centre is gathering pace, with major demolition works now well under way at 35–45 Abington Street. The removal of long-vacant buildings, including the former M&S, BHS, and Job Centre, is clearing the way for a vibrant new development that will bring modern homes, retail, and leisure opportunities to the heart of the town. Specialist contractor Colemans has completed key preparatory works, including internal soft strip, services disconnection, and the safe removal of asbestos. Hoarding and scaffolding have been installed along Abington Street and Wellington Street, and heavy machinery, including 40-tonne and 70-tonne excavators, has now entered the site to begin mechanical demolition, initially focusing on the former M&S building. Throughout the process, Colemans is working closely with West Northamptonshire Council to minimise disruption to nearby residents and businesses. Measures include secure hoarding, robotic demolition for precision and reduced noise. Safety remains a top priority, with strict protocols in place for all site activity. “Colemans have made excellent progress so far to carefully deconstruct these long-vacant buildings, overcoming complex challenges such as asbestos removal and site preparation, and we’re now seeing the physical transformation take shape. “This phase of works is all about preparing the site ready for a developer to come on board and deliver a vibrant scheme that will bring much-needed housing, modern retail and leisure spaces, and a more attractive public realm. “It’s a bold step forward in our long-term strategy to revitalise Northampton, support local businesses, and attract new investment. I’m proud of the work being done and excited for what’s to come.” Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council "We’re pleased with the progress made so far, with the safe delivery of heavy machinery to site marking an important milestone. “Our team is now carrying out the careful deconstruction of the buildings using a combination of precision equipment and controlled sequencing. “This approach allows us to safely remove each structure while keeping the site secure and disruption to a minimum. “It’s a privilege to support the council’s vision and help create a clear, ready site for the next stage of Northampton’s regeneration.” James Doherty, Project Manager for Colemans 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?

September 05, 2025

Volunteers help Sixfields sparkle for World Cup

05 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council has expressed its gratitude to all the community groups and contractors who made sure the area of Sixfields was in top condition to welcome the Women’s Rugby World Cup, which saw six matches take place at Franklin’s Gardens stadium between 24 August and 7 September. Veolia, Kier, FCC, and other community groups and volunteers, including Northants Litter Wombles, all committed time to complete an intensive clean-up operation, focusing particularly on areas around Franklin’s Gardens. The Women’s Rugby World Cup is being hosted at Franklin’s Gardens and spans August through to September 2025. “It’s wonderful to see the area around Franklin’s Gardens looking its best as we welcome such a prestigious event. “My thanks go to FCC Environment, Veolia, Kier and their dedicated teams, and the Wombles and other community volunteers, for the tremendous work in preparing Sixfields ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. “Their efforts showcase the pride we have in West Northamptonshire and our commitment to providing clean, safe and welcoming spaces for both residents and visitors.” Cllr Nigel Stansfield, Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste at West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 05, 2025

Tiffield Academy: A new special school opens to support children with additional needs

05 September 2025 Earlier today, staff and families came together to celebrate the official opening of Tiffield Academy, a new special school located in Tiffield, near Towcester. The Academy, part of Greenwood Academies Trust, will provide vital support to children with additional and complex needs, and their families. Marking the occasion, which has been four years in the making, the Academy welcomed colleagues, families and members of the wider community to a special opening event. This included speeches from those involved in the project; a tour of the new facilities; and a ribbon cutting, led by Mirah Mshudulu, a pupil from Purple Oaks Academy, another special school within the Trust. Developed in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council and construction experts, Willmott Dixon, the Academy will welcome young people between the ages of 4 to 18 years, who may be autistic, or experience other communication difficulties, and have severe learning difficulties. Opening its doors to pupils on Monday, 8 th September, families will benefit from a purpose-built and inclusive school setting that puts children’s wellbeing and potential at the heart of everything it does. This ambition will be further supported by the Academy’s ethos which is founded in kindness, curiosity and ambition – values which will be brought to life through a carefully planned environment to accommodate sensory learning differences. These will be supported through bespoke learning spaces, a soft playroom, sensory rooms, a rebound therapy room, expansive outdoor play areas and a family-led pastoral model. Emma Butler, Principal at Tiffield Academy, said: “Our mission at Tiffield Academy is simple - we are here to help every child feel safe, supported and seen, and to nurture a love of learning that will help them thrive, both in and out of school. “It has taken four years to bring this important project to fruition, and so I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who played a role throughout this process and has helped ensure that our children have access to an inclusive and meaningful education experience.” Wayne Norrie, CEO of Greenwood Academies Trust, said: “Tiffield Academy is a direct response to the pressing need for high-quality SEND places across the region. Ensuring we uphold our commitment to doing all we can for the communities we serve, it is also an Academy that has been shaped by deep expertise, compassion and collaboration, and I know that through this provision, our brilliant colleagues will make a real different to the lives of local families for years to come.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “Tiffield Academy will make a real and lasting difference to children with additional and complex needs, offering high-quality educational support in a safe, inclusive and purpose-built environment, right here in their local community. It means families can access the specialist provision their children need, close to home, helping them to thrive both academically and emotionally. “We are delighted to see this project come to life after years of collaboration. From identifying the need through the Council's pupil place planning process, to securing the land and leading the design and delivery of the school, this has been a true team effort. It’s a powerful example of what can be achieved when partners work together with a shared commitment to improving outcomes for our learners and I am confident of the positive difference this will make to our children, young people and families.” Featured in the image L-R: Ben Pearson, Assitant Director for Education at West Northamptonshire Council; Cllr Fiona Baker, West Northamptonshire Council; Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Skills at West Northamptonshire Council; Emma Butler, Principal at Tiffield Academy; Bonnie Pawlusek, Deputy Principal at Tiffield Academy; Mirah Mshudulu, Pupil at Purple Oaks Academy; Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive at West Northamptonshire Council; Graham Feek, Deputy Chief Executive at Greenwood Academies Trust. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 05, 2025

Service urges residents to have chimney inspection before winter

Residents across Northamptonshire are being urged to check and maintain their chimneys as the colder weather sets in. During the winter months, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service typically receives more call outs to chimney fires, with 31 recorded in the year to June 2025. The most chimney fires happened in November (5), December (5) and February (7). Prevention Team Leader, Tina Collett, said: “As the colder months are creeping in and you begin to use your fire again, it’s important to have your chimney swept regularly depending on the type of fuel you burn. “This week is Chimney Fire Safety Week and it’s a good opportunity to remind those who light a fire that while you might be tempted to clean the chimney yourself, you should always use a professional. “They’ll thoroughly inspect your chimney, provide a certificate and leave you with peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.” Chimney fires should not be underestimated and can result in devastating damage to your home. Signs of a chimney fire can be a loud roaring noise, sparks and flames coming from the top of the chimney, flames through tiny cracks, and smoke or a burning smell in adjoining rooms or loft. Chimneys should be cleaned four times a year if you are using wood, twice a year if you are using coal, and at least once a year if you are using smokeless fuels, oil, or gas. The Service also advises installing at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home and testing these regularly as this could give a vital early warning sign if a fire does break out. Here are some top tips for avoiding a chimney fire: Keep your chimney and flue clean and well maintained Ensure any fire is extinguished properly before leaving the house or going to bed Never interrupt the air supply by blocking air vents or air bricks Install smoke alarms on every level of your house and test them regularly Install a carbon monoxide alarm near any fuel-burning appliance you have If you have a chimney fire, remember the following: Your first option should be to get out, stay out and ring 999 If it is safe for you to do so however, shut all air vents and flue dampers to reduce oxygen supply Move flammable materials such as furniture away from the fireplace For more tips on how to stay safe for the winter season, visit our winter safety page.

September 04, 2025

Week of activities to commemorate 350-year anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton

04 September 2025 The 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton will be marked with a special event in Market Square to round off a week-long series of free activities across the town. The finale of a busy events programme will be held on Saturday, 20 September, with an activity day in Market Square from 11am to 7.30pm, to be followed by a service at All Saints’ Church at 7.30pm featuring guests including Rev Richard Coles. A big screen will show a specially commissioned animation by Northampton Film Festival and The Creative Place. The film is the result of a project involving hundreds of local people answering the question, if Northampton burnt down again tomorrow, what would people save, what would people rebuild first and what would make it feel like our Northampton again? Local children have contributed drawings to the animation, local animators have shared their skills and market-goers have shared their thoughts through workshops, vox pops and on the ideas wall at The Creative Place. The resulting film will premiere at 1.30pm. “The project has been supported by CLICK Arts Foundation and West Northamptonshire Council, and has also included other free opportunities to take part in animation workshops and masterclasses with animation professionals. “We’re looking forward to showcasing everyone’s work as we come together as a community to commemorate this huge milestone in our town’s proud history.” Becky Carrier of Northampton Film Festival Throughout the day there will be an extended version of The Creative Place’s Makers Market featuring artisan producers and creatives, a bar by V&B, a performance from the Bach choir and displays from Northamptonshire Police and Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue. Live music and DJ sets will be provided from the likes of Inspiration FM, United African Association, CLICK Arts Foundation, Saphron and The Performing Room. West Northamptonshire Council will also be sharing its vision for the redevelopment of Northampton town centre, echoing the efforts to rebuild the town in the wake of the blaze in 1675. A five-month event calendar has already seen exhibitions, church services, art installations, interactive trails, films, history tours and cultural celebrations take place to mark 350 years since flames ripped through the streets of Northampton, destroying 700 of the 850 buildings in the town centre and claiming 11 lives. “The Great Fire of Northampton is a hugely significant moment in our local history and we have been thrilled to see so many people coming together in recent months to mark the 350th anniversary in style. “From the carnival procession to the fire-themed planting for Northampton in Bloom, and everything in between – this has been the summer of the Great Fire and we’re looking forward to a spectacular conclusion this September with a week-long series of free activities giving everyone the chance to get involved. “This will be an opportunity for the county to come together to celebrate Northamptonshire’s extraordinary resilience, civic pride and independent spirit. It is that character that shone through 350 years ago and is still very much in evidence today.” Art historian James Miller The Great Fire of Northampton is believed to have been caused by sparks from an open fire in a home on St Mary's Street, near the former castle site. The fire quickly spread and engulfed the surrounding buildings. As the flames raged, residents sought refuge in the Market Square, but the situation grew increasingly dire, and the authorities ordered the evacuation of the area, with terrified residents forced to flee. The fire's destructive path left behind a scene of devastation, with prominent buildings such as All Hallows’ Church reduced to ashes. While the blaze caused immense destruction, it also marked a turning point in the town's architectural development. Following the fire, efforts were made to rebuild and revitalise Northampton, leading to the construction of new buildings and a renewed focus on urban planning. In a remarkable display of community spirit and determination, local residents and businesses rallied together, raising £25,000 to finance the ambitious reconstruction of the town centre, centred around the bustling Market Square. As part of the anniversary, a spectacular light show will be beamed onto All Saints’ Church every night from Monday, 15 September to Saturday, 20 September, while Fiori Musicali will perform a spine-tingling interpretation of Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks at the church at 7pm on Thursday, 18 September. “The memory of All Hallows' Church and its destruction in the Great Fire of Northampton serves as a reminder of the resilience of the town and its ability to recover and rebuild, even in the face of catastrophic events. “The events taking place here at All Saints’ and in the Market Square this September will channel that community spirit and shine a light on the history and heritage that gives Northamptonshire such a proud identity.” Father Oliver Coss, Rector of All Saints’ Church The Great Fire of Northampton anniversary commemorations have been organised by cultural and historical groups from across the county alongside partners including Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID), Northampton Town Council and West Northamptonshire Council. Find out more information about the Great Fire of Northampton anniversary commemorations Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 04, 2025

£400k investment to boost skills and opportunities in West Northants

04 September 2025 Community organisations and residents across West Northamptonshire are set to benefit from a £415,000 funding boost to help people build skills, improve wellbeing, and unlock new opportunities. The funding, delivered by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), will support 15 projects led by local charities, voluntary groups, and social enterprises. These initiatives will provide training, coaching, and wellbeing support designed to help people into employment, education, and volunteering, while also strengthening connections and resilience within local communities. This year’s successful organisations represent a wide range of expertise, from supporting vulnerable families and unemployed young people to delivering specialist training and wellbeing services. “We are proud to be investing £1.7 million into these fantastic community projects through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Each of these organisations is making a real difference on the ground - whether that’s helping people develop skills to get back into work, supporting young people to plan their future, or tackling social isolation and mental health challenges. “Together, these initiatives will strengthen our communities and boost opportunities for local people, helping to grow a stronger economy for West Northamptonshire.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Examples of funded projects include: Innovation CIC – Project Innovate: supporting adults with learning difficulties to access meaningful employment through enterprise, vocational training, and tailored opportunities to build life chances. Northampton Hope Centre – Hope in the Community: offering wellbeing and life skills training, including employability support such as CV writing alongside one-to-one support to help people move into work. Doddridge Centre: employing a Community Skills and Development Worker and Apprentice to mentor and coach vulnerable and isolated residents, helping to build confidence and support people to return to work. The Good Loaf: creating meaningful work opportunities for vulnerable women through its artisan bakery and café, with dedicated one-to-one coaching to help participants progress towards employment. Learning & Skills Academy – Learning for All: combining housing, health, and food support with vocational training and work-readiness skills, helping those furthest from the labour market progress into employment, education or volunteering. The Lewis Foundation: strengthening volunteer and work placement programmes by hiring team leaders to provide consistent support, helping participants develop skills and improve their employability. Born to Shine: supporting young people with additional health needs to plan their career paths, including CV writing, interview training, LinkedIn coaching, and practical help such as clothing for interviews. Restore Northampton - The Well: expanding wellbeing services to help adults move from crisis to independence, focusing on confidence, skills and reducing loneliness. Salvation Army - Employment Plus: providing one-to-one employment support, with funding enabling the appointment of an Employment Development Coordinator to double the number of participants supported. United African Association: offering intermediate and advanced IT classes alongside employability skills workshops to help unemployed members of the African community secure work. Unity in Diversity CIC - Dad Talk: improving mental health and wellbeing among fathers from Black and refugee communities, raising awareness of cultural perspectives on mental health and reducing social isolation. Volunteer it Yourself: giving unemployed young people the chance to gain trade skills and City & Guilds qualifications by refurbishing community facilities such as Northampton Scouts Rugby Club and Long Buckby Youth Club. Workbridge (St Andrew’s Healthcare) - Pathways to Success: running nine-week courses combining employability skills training with therapeutic wellbeing activities, supporting adults referred by GP surgeries into better health and work opportunities. Other successful projects include Right Resolution, Support Northants, and the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, who will also be delivering a variety of training, mentoring and support schemes. The People and Skills programme is part of WNC’s wider commitment to supporting community resilience, enhancing workforce skills, and ensuring local residents have access to the opportunities they need to thrive. For more information on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and funded projects, visit the Funding and Allocations webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 02, 2025

SEND Support Service is changing: introducing the Inclusion and Intervention Support Team

02 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) Support Service is now called the Inclusion and Intervention Support Team (IIST). This transformation is designed to make it easier for families to access support and guidance at an earlier stage. The new service model focuses on early identification and tailored intervention, helping children and young people with SEND thrive from the earliest years through to school age, while also empowering parents, carers and education professionals with clearer pathways to advice and guidance. These updates are based on feedback from over 130 parents, carers, school and health professionals. The responses have been key to refreshing the service, with priorities including; better access to school support, simplified request forms, more frequent in-person appointments and training for education and early years professionals to build confidence and capacity. Working together with partners to embed these changes, parents and carers can expect: Easier access to support: a new online form for parents and carers of children who are between the ages of 0 to 5 years, which focuses on development needs rather than an eligibility criteria, making it simpler to get advice and guidance. Building resource in early years settings: early years settings practitioners will receive further support to become accredited providers to help identify needs earlier, in line with the National Stamp of Approval scheme. Expanding training ability in the Portage Home Teaching team : increasing training to volunteers so more families with young children who have SEND can get support at home. The Portage model focuses on learning through play and helping children build skills step by step, supporting children’s development in a way that fits naturally into everyday routines. More in-person support in the community: the team will hold drop-in sessions for in-person advice at Family Hubs and other SEND parent groups for school age children. For Early Years children the team will attend existing stay and play sessions and SEND groups for parents to speak to the team during these sessions. Designated link worker for schools: each school will have a designated link worker offering half-termly support, including advice and training as well as targeted workshops for parents. Schools to be equipped to support children and young people with SEND: to work with schools on best practice approaches so they feel more empowered and confident to support pupils with SEND. Trained staff to support effective signposting: a skilled team who can work together with partners and professionals to efficiently signpost to teams and services for support where they are best placed to lead. These changes are designed to make it easier for families to get information and support early, by providing improved guidance and resource to them directly, as well as to early years and education settings. To help answer any questions you may have regarding this service improvement, please visit the IIST webpage or contact [email protected] . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 03, 2025

35 Northamptonshire start-ups awarded £2,000 grants through Build Your Business 2.0

03 September 2025 Thirty-five innovative start-ups from across Northamptonshire have been awarded £2,000 grants through the relaunched Build Your Business 2.0 programme, providing vital support to help them grow, thrive and contribute to the local economy. Running until March 2026 and funded using £310,000 from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Build Your Business 2.0 is delivered entirely free of charge, ensuring accessible support for anyone looking to launch or grow a business in Northamptonshire. The grants are designed to fuel entrepreneurial journeys, providing vital funding alongside expert guidance to help founders grow and thrive in Northamptonshire. Through Build Your Business 2.0, participants benefit from tailored support to shape and strengthen their business ideas. The programme offers: 1:1 mentoring and expert-led workshops Interactive webinars and networking opportunities Access to specialist market research resources Guidance on marketing strategies, financial forecasting, business planning, wellbeing and resilience After completing this learning and development support, eligible businesses were invited to apply for a £2,000 start-up grant. Following a competitive application process, 35 innovative local businesses were selected. “It’s fantastic to see so many entrepreneurs benefit from this programme. These grants not only provide crucial early-stage funding but also equip start-ups with the skills and confidence to succeed. By supporting local businesses in this way, we’re helping to promote innovation, create jobs, and strengthen Northamptonshire’s economy for the future.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC “We’re incredibly proud to support the entrepreneurial spirit thriving across the local area. These £2,000 grants are more than just financial support - they’re a vote of confidence in the innovation, resilience and ambition of our local start-ups. This programme is helping to lay strong foundations for future growth and I look forward to seeing these businesses flourish across North Northamptonshire.” Cllr Jan O’Hara, Executive Member for Planning and Economic Growth at NNC West Northamptonshire small businesses include: North Northamptonshire small businesses include: “Taking part in the Build Your Business 2.0 programme has been transformative for Buds. It has given me, as a new business owner, the confidence, tools and connections to grow the business. The support and guidance I received in the workshops offered practical advice on marketing, finance and business planning, allowing me to refine my vision. Thanks to BIPC Northamptonshire, my initial rental costs are secured, giving me the freedom to concentrate on what really matters – delivering enriching outdoor experiences for children.” Natalie Green, owner of Buds Outdoor Play “The Build Your Business 2.0 programme has been a game changer for me. It’s given me the confidence and strategy to grow Cloco Health with more focus and direction. Having expert guidance has really helped me turn my ideas into action. Building a business alone can feel really isolating and overwhelming, but the programme gave me guidance, support, and someone I could turn to for advice. Having that community and direction made such a difference and I am very grateful for it.” Chloe Baker, founder of Cloco Health Find out more and register for Build Your Business 2.0 on the BIPC Northamptonshire website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 03, 2025

Northamptonshire to celebrate Heritage Open Days with record number of activities

03 September 2025 Northamptonshire is set to welcome its biggest ever Heritage Open Days celebration this September, with a record number of events and attractions registered across the county. Running from 12 to 21 September 2025, this year’s festival celebrates its 31st year with the theme of Architecture and Design - marking the first Heritage Open Days festival since Discover Northamptonshire, the Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), gained accreditation from Visit England. With more venues and experiences than ever before, highlights of this year’s free event will include: Heritage trails in Northampton, Brackley and Daventry, plus a West Northamptonshire Council online assets trail showcasing buildings and monuments to discover from home. A special Great Fire of Northampton commemoration, with stories and activities reflecting the lasting impact of the fire on the town’s history. A fascinating Beer and Buildings talk at Towcester Mill Brewery covering the history of the Tap Room and the Turbine in their 18th Century building and understanding more about how brewing first came about and who paved the way to bring us real ale that we know today. A chance to share your favourite Northampton building at a special community event inside the Guildhall on 13 September. A canal trip on the Grand Union Canal, taking place on 13 and 14 September, including entering the Blisworth Tunnel with commentary relating to the canal history and its importance for the area. Daventry stepping into the spotlight with heritage buses arriving in the town centre on 13 September, alongside plenty of historic attractions to explore. Four separate events at The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the oldest and most significant buildings in the town. The much-loved big red heritage buses returning to Northampton town centre during the second weekend of the festival, running free tours of local sights. Battlefield history brought to life with events at Edgcote and Delapré Abbey. Entry to many much-loved sites including Northampton’s Guildhall, 78 Derngate and Delapré Abbey - offering rare behind-the-scenes access to places that are often closed to the public or usually charge admission. “Our incredible heritage, architecture and attractions are a huge contributor to local pride in place and our dedicated Visitor Economy Team have worked tirelessly to increase engagement and participation in this fantastic festival. We have funded Northampton Transport Heritage once again to provide free rides to local attractions so residents can get around easily and see as many as possible. “Heritage Open Days provides a fantastic opportunity to discover the unique history, architecture and culture that make West Northamptonshire such a special place, and we hope residents and visitors will join us for this once-a-year opportunity. The festival also provides the perfect warm-up to Northamptonshire Day on 25 October, when we will continue to celebrate everything that makes our county proud.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of WNC and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure “As we work with both local authorities and wider organisations to amplify the visitor economy across the county, we are dedicated to tapping into the multi-billion-pound heritage industry. The purpose of Discover Northamptonshire is to enhance and grow the local offer to benefit residents and visitors in Northamptonshire and Heritage Open Days is a must-attend, especially as this year is the biggest one to date!” Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire Timetables for the heritage buses will be available online from early September, with printed copies also available from Northampton Central Library and Northampton Museum & Art Gallery. Booking applies to certain events – please see full listings and details on the Discover Northamptonshire Webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 02, 2025

Council achieves silver award in national environmental scheme

02 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has achieved a higher accolade of a national environmental scheme after continuing to cut its own energy use and waste. The Council has been awarded Silver accreditation in the Investors in the Environment scheme (iiE) following an independent audit, having made strong progress in reducing its environmental impact over the past year. It means the organisation moves up from the Bronze accreditation it has retained since 2023. iiE is designed to help organisations improve sustainability whilst saving time and money. Assessors said key achievements over the past 12 months included the Council cutting down its business travel by 40%, reducing electricity and water usage by 6% and 12% and slimming down waste – by just over a third for general rubbish (-34%) along with recycling (-23%) and food waste (-29%). It also made strong progress in engaging people in its sustainability work, including external events and waste education initiatives, along with notable progress in strengthening its Environmental Management System (EMS) – this is made up of the policies, practices and procedures it uses to manage its environmental responsibilities as a public organisation. Assessors said the organisation should now look forward and update its environmental strategies and policies to align with the new direction of the Council. WNC is embarking upon a refocus of its sustainability work, led by its new political administration, which removes local net zero targets in favour of concentrating on more tangible and practical projects to reduce energy and save money. Key to this will be continuing with the iiE accreditation scheme to help achieve its sustainability objectives. “It’s great news that our Council has achieved iiE Silver accreditation and recognises the work that has been taking place to cut waste and improve efficiency to make services more sustainable and save money. This reflects the approach we’re taking to refocus our sustainability work on the things within our control and which we can influence locally to deliver better results for our residents.” Cllr Nigel Stansfield, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 01, 2025

Council takes first steps towards planning action over asylum hotels

01 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is today issuing Planning Contravention Notices to the owners of the three hotels in its area being used by the Home Office for asylum accommodation. The Council, in its role as the local planning authority, believes a breach of planning control may have occurred at the hotels and is in the process of serving the notices as the first formal step in finding out more information before deciding whether enforcement action is required. The hotel owners have 21 days to respond to the notice and failure to do is an offence under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. Action is already under way by WNC to take legal and planning steps over asylum hotels in its area in the light of Epping Forest District Council’s current court case, which will conclude with a full injunction hearing in October. Alongside actively collating the evidence it needs for a robust legal case, as part of its action WNC is also ensuring it follows the full process for using formal planning enforcement powers. “By accommodating asylum seekers, we believe these hotels may have a case to answer for breaching planning control, and these notices are the first formal step in allowing us to investigate further. “The recent Epping Court of Appeal hearing highlighted the importance of ensuring the full planning enforcement process is followed if councils are looking to take action against the use of hotels in their area as asylum accommodation and that’s what we’re doing in West Northants. “With the Home Office’s use of these hotels in our area placing an unsustainable strain on our local services and with residents continuing to raise concerns, we will look at using whatever powers we have to address these issues.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 02, 2025

One year of enhanced support for unpaid carers

02 September 2025 Unpaid carers across West Northamptonshire are receiving more recognition and support than ever before, thanks to the successful first year of the area’s Carer Strategy 2024–2029. Designed by West Northamptonshire Council in collaboration with carers themselves, the strategy aims to ensure that carers receive support to fulfil their caring responsibilities. The first year of the area’s Carer Strategy has seen overwhelmingly positive feedback from carers with 84% reporting reduced carer burden and 60% noting an improved quality of life. Key achievements from the past year include: The launch of One Stop Shops in over 20 locations, offering advice, emotional support, and signposting. A new carer support guide, co-produced with experts by experience, soon to be available in print and online. Distribution of carer support cards and targeted outreach to help hidden carers identify themselves and access help. Registration of over 1,400 new carers, with ongoing support provided by Northamptonshire Carers. Supporting Northamptonshire Carers with the introduction of Bridgit, an AI-powered tool offering instant advice and self-help plans for carers. “Carers make an extraordinary contribution every day, often without recognition. This strategy is about changing that to make sure carers can access the right support for them. Significant progress has been made over the last year; however, we remained committed to continuing this journey together, ensuring carers feel valued and supported at every stage.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services Access a wide-range of resources for carers here Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 02, 2025

SEND Support Service is changing: introducing the Intervention and Inclusion Support Team

02 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) Support Service is now called the Inclusion and Intervention Support Team (IIST). This transformation is designed to make it easier for families to access support and guidance at an earlier stage. The new service model focuses on early identification and tailored intervention, helping children and young people with SEND thrive from the earliest years through to school age, while also empowering parents, carers and education professionals with clearer pathways to advice and guidance. These updates are based on feedback from over 130 parents, carers, school and health professionals. The responses have been key to refreshing the service, with priorities including; better access to school support, simplified request forms, more frequent in-person appointments and training for education and early years professionals to build confidence and capacity. Working together with partners to embed these changes, parents and carers can expect: Easier access to support: a new online form for parents and carers of children who are between the ages of 0 to 5 years, which focuses on development needs rather than an eligibility criteria, making it simpler to get advice and guidance. Building resource in early years settings: early years settings practitioners will receive further support to become accredited providers to help identify needs earlier, in line with the National Stamp of Approval scheme. Expanding training ability in the Portage Home Teaching team : increasing training to volunteers so more families with young children who have SEND can get support at home. The Portage model focuses on learning through play and helping children build skills step by step, supporting children’s development in a way that fits naturally into everyday routines. More in-person support in the community: the team will hold drop-in sessions for in-person advice at Family Hubs and other SEND parent groups for school age children. For Early Years children the team will attend existing stay and play sessions and SEND groups for parents to speak to the team during these sessions. Designated link worker for schools: each school will have a designated link worker offering half-termly support, including advice and training as well as targeted workshops for parents. Schools to be equipped to support children and young people with SEND: to work with schools on best practice approaches so they feel more empowered and confident to support pupils with SEND. Trained staff to support effective signposting: a skilled team who can work together with partners and professionals to efficiently signpost to teams and services for support where they are best placed to lead. These changes are designed to make it easier for families to get information and support early, by providing improved guidance and resource to them directly, as well as to early years and education settings. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected] or visit the Inclusion and Intervention Support Team webpage here . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 01, 2025

Planning made clearer: views sought on what’s required to submit planning applications

01 September 2025 Residents, developers, and stakeholders are invited to take part in a public consultation on West Northamptonshire Council’s draft Local Validation List, a document that outlines the information required when submitting a planning application. This consultation forms part of the Council’s broader Planning and Building Control Service Improvement Plan, which aims to make the planning process more efficient, transparent, and responsive to local needs. Views are being sought to ensure the Local Validation List is: Clear and easy to understand Balanced between national planning standards and local requirements Inclusive of any additional or revised documentation needs Supported by a useful matrix tool that helps applicants identify what’s needed for different types of applications Your input will help shape the final version of the list, making it easier for applicants to submit complete and accurate planning applications. “We’re committed to making the planning process clearer and more accessible for everyone. This consultation is an important step in ensuring our Local Validation List reflects both national standards and the specific needs of our communities. We welcome all feedback and look forward to working together to improve how planning applications are handled across West Northamptonshire.” Cllr Thomas Manning, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Planning People can share their views by completing the online survey on WNC’s Consultation Hub Have Your Say on Planning Application Requirements - West Northamptonshire Council - Citizen Space . The consultation closes on Sunday, 26 October. If you have questions or need the consultation materials in an alternative format, please contact: [email protected] Following the consultation, all feedback will be reviewed and used to update the draft Local Validation List. The final version will be presented to WNC’s Planning Policy Committee for approval. If adopted, the new list will come into effect soon after. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 29, 2025

Statement regarding Epping asylum appeal ruling

29 August 2025 “We note the Court of Appeal’s decision to overturn the High Court’s interim injunction granted to Epping Forest District Council and await the outcome of the full injunction hearing in October. “Today’s judgement doesn’t change our course of action to take planning and legal steps which is already underway. The Council is collating evidence for a robust case against the use of these hotels in our area for asylum accommodation. “It also doesn’t change our view that the use and locations of the three hotels had never been suitable for asylum accommodation and place unreasonable and unsustainable strain on local services. We have re-emphasised these points strongly in discussion with the Home Office this week. “We will continue to do everything we can within our powers to address our residents’ concerns over these hotels and keep them safe.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 30, 2025

Fire Service issues reminder on dangers of lithium-ion batteries following Gayton Marina boat fire

Following a recent incident at Gayton Marina, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people of the potential fire risks that lithium-ion batteries can present. Crews were called to the Marina on the morning of August 5 to tackle a fire that had engulfed the cabin of a canal boat. Just moments before they were ready to start tackling the flames, the boat exploded. Thankfully there were no serious injuries, and crews were able to extinguish the fire. The boat was fitted with Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) batteries, which are larger batteries typically used to power electric vehicles. An investigation remains ongoing to determine what happened to the batteries to start the fire. Area Manager Neil Sadler, of Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Lithium-ion batteries come in all shapes and sizes and are used in everyday items we all own, so we want to remind people of the hazards they can sometimes pose. “If they overheat or are punctured, crushed or overcharged, then they can release a flammable vapour which can ignite, burn or in some cases explode. “Although we believe the fire was started by the batteries on this occasion, we do not know precisely why, and we are working with the owners of Gayton Marina while the investigation continues to fully understand what happened. “We want to ensure people follow the appropriate safety advice to mitigate any risks that lithium-ion batteries can pose in products we use every day, such as mobile phones, electric cars, charging devices and tools. “The main advice is for people not to put these batteries in the bin. Make sure you take them to your local household recycling centre so that staff there can dispose of them safely.” Please also consider the following safety advice: If you see white vapour, that may look like smoke, coming from a battery then get out, stay out and call the Fire Service on 999. Never charge lithium-ion batteries when you are sleeping or are away from your home. Never charge lithium-ion batteries in a place where you would need an escape route from a potential fire – it will block your way out should they set on fire. Use chargers that come with any devices you buy. Always read the manufacturer’s safety instructions, never cover chargers and make sure it is charged in a well-ventilated area. Buy replacement batteries or chargers from trusted suppliers, and chose a genuine, branded product. Picture courtesy of K Donald.

August 28, 2025

There’s still time to join the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge

28 August 2025 If you haven’t signed up yet, there’s still plenty of time for children to take part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge: Story Garden. Running across Northamptonshire libraries until 13 September, the challenge invites children to enjoy six books of their choice over the summer. The theme, Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors, is inspiring children to explore new stories and ideas. Every child who signs up receives a special collector’s card and earns a sticker for each book they read – whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, e-books or audiobooks. Complete all six and they’ll be awarded a free medal and certificate to celebrate their achievement. Key dates to remember Sign up anytime at your local library until Saturday 13 September Complete the challenge by Saturday 20 September to claim a medal and certificate Libraries are also running a wide range of free events and activities alongside the challenge. Check the Libraries What’s On webpage to see what’s happening near you. The Summer Reading Challenge is free to join - just drop into your local library and get started today. For more information, visit the Libraries webpage or ask at your nearest branch. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 28, 2025

Northamptonshire Children’s Trust champions fostering at Women’s Rugby World Cup

28 August 2025 As the excitement builds for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, Northamptonshire Children’s Trust (NCT) is proud to announce it’s campaign to raise awareness of fostering, using the global sporting event as a powerful platform to connect with the local community and inspire action. The campaign will feature the premiere of “The Team Around the Child” which is a moving and heart-warming short film that shines a light on the parallels between rugby and fostering. The film highlights the shared core values such as teamwork, resilience, support and the power of community. “We’re inviting you to watch our film, come and talk to our team and consider how you could make a difference in a child’s life. “Every child deserves a safe and loving home. By connecting with rugby fans and families during this historic tournament, we hope to inspire more people to open their hearts and homes to children in need.” Colin Foster, Chief Executive of NCT Northampton’s Franklin’s Gardens Stadium will host the matches, including England’s highly anticipated clash with Samoa on Saturday 30th August. With thousands of fans expected to attend and millions watching worldwide, NCT is seizing this moment to spotlight the urgent need for more foster carers across the county. “We’re incredibly excited to welcome the Women’s Rugby World Cup to Northampton. This is more than just a sporting event, it’s a celebration of resilience, teamwork and community. These values are at the heart of fostering and we’re proud to align our campaign with such an inspiring occasion.” Olivia Ives, Assistant Director for Corporate Parenting As part of the initiative, NCT will be present at the Rugby Fest in Abington Park and the Rugby World Cup Fan Zone in Northampton’s Market Square, engaging with families and fans through interactive activities and opportunities to meet current foster carers. The campaign has also included digital outreach and partnerships with both councils, local rugby clubs and organisations to amplify the message. The Fan Zone’s will be taking place 24th, 30th and 31st August and 7th September and will be a free event for members of the public to enjoy the rugby matches in a fun environment. For more information about fostering in Northamptonshire or to get involved in the campaign, visit the NCT website or follow @NorthamptonshireFostering on Facebook and @fosteringnctrust on Instagram. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 26, 2025

Bus users encouraged to complete survey to improve local services

26 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is asking bus users to take part in a survey to help enhance local bus services. This is being delivered in partnership with sustainable travel consultancy GO Travel Solutions. The survey will provide feedback on current bus services from a broad range of different users across West Northamptonshire. Results will be used to guide future planning and investment in local bus services. The survey forms part of the area’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, funded by the UK Government. Anyone who has used a bus in West Northamptonshire within the last four weeks is invited to complete the 5-minute survey. "We want to hear directly from bus users about their recent journeys. Their feedback is vital in helping us understand how services are working and where improvements can be made. By taking just a few minutes to complete the survey, they can support improving bus services in West Northamptonshire." Cllr Richard Butler, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport The survey is open until Friday 19 September. To take part, visit: www.go-travel-solutions.com/wnc-bus-survey Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 26, 2025

A final chance to have your say on alternative education in West Northamptonshire

26 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is inviting parents, carers and guardians to take part in a final round of engagement sessions to help shape the future of alternative education across the area. Unregistered alternative education provision refers to educational settings that operate outside the formal school system. These settings often support children who need a different approach to learning due to health issues, emotional challenges, or other personal circumstances. While these provisions can offer valuable and flexible learning opportunities, they are not currently subject to the same regulations as registered schools. Following the recent consultation which closed in July , the Council received valuable feedback from families and stakeholders to inform the development of a new commissioning framework. The aim of this new framework is to provide clear guidance and standards for these settings to ensure that all alternative education settings are safe, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse needs of children and young people. As a second wave of engagement, a series of face-to-face and virtual drop-in sessions throughout September have been planned, giving an opportunity for families to speak directly to the team and share their views. Parents, carers and guardians are invited to drop-in to one of the sessions below: 8 September, 10.30am -12.30pm: Daventry Library, The Abbey Market Square, Daventry NN11 4XG 11 September, 1pm to 3pm: The Guildhall (Jeffery room) St Giles' Square, Northampton, NN1 1DE 16 September, 4pm to 6pm: Towcester Hub, The Forum, Whittons Ln, Towcester NN12 6AD 18 September, 5pm to 7pm: virtual (via Teams) Join the virtual meeting “This is an important piece of work and one that is crucial we get right. Every child deserves access to good quality education that supports their individual needs and for many, alternative provision plays a vital role in this.” “These drop-in sessions are an opportunity for families to come along and feedback in-person or via our online session directly to our team. We hope by putting on these additional engagement sessions, will encourage further feedback and conversation with parents, carers and guardians who child or children use alternative education.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council Once finalised, the new framework which is set to launch in 2026 will establish a set of clear standards for safeguarding, health and safety and educational quality, a professional review panel to assess providers against these standards, a directory of approved providers and ongoing monitoring and compliance checks to ensure high-quality provision is maintained. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 27, 2025

Brackley, Silverstone and Towcester bus service improvements

27 August 2025 A series of improvements are being introduced to local bus services connecting Brackley, Silverstone, Towcester and Northampton. Going live on Monday, 1 September, the changes aim to provide more frequent bus services between the towns and improve reliability. As part of the area’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) there will now be more opportunities for people to travel for education, work, health, shopping and leisure. The initiative is being delivered thanks to a partnership between West Northamptonshire Council, Silverstone Park MEPC, Stagecoach Midlands and the Department for Transport. The following services are being introduced: New X88 Brackley to Northampton via Silverstone and Towcester: The X88 bus service will operate as a more direct limited-stop express route between Brackley, Silverstone Business Park, Towcester and Northampton. Bus service 88 Brackley to Northampton via Silverstone and Towcester: The 88 bus service will be extended to Brackley and replace the 87 between Towcester and Brackley. It will also serve Silverstone Business Park and some journeys will serve Syresham. Bus service 87 Towcester to Northampton and Northampton General Hospital: With customers now able to use the 88 and X88 services, the 87 service will no longer run between Brackley and Towcester. However, Silverstone UTC students will be able to use the 88 service in its place. The 87 service will be extended to serve the hospital, providing improved connections for both visitors and staff. “We’re pleased to have worked closely with partners to introduce these changes that will benefit those who live, work and visit our area. They deliver more journey options and times and better connectivity to key destinations such as schools, workplaces, leisure facilities and health services.” Cllr Richard Butler, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport “Stagecoach buses are a key part of helping to connect people and places in West Northants and these service improvements will provide customers with better connectivity and more reliable journeys. We understand the financial challenges we’re all facing with the ongoing cost of living crisis and these enhanced services provide a real alternative for customers when travelling around the region without the need to pay for fuel or excessive car parking charges. We look forward to welcoming customers on-board and we want people to know that when it comes to using the bus in West Northants, we’ve got you.” Mark Whitelocks, Stagecoach Midlands’ Managing Director For more information on the new services, please visit www.stagecoachbus.com Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 27, 2025

Flying the flag with pride and safety

27 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council has issued safety advice to support residents who are keen to proudly fly patriotic flags within their communities. People have been showing their sense of national pride this summer by flying the union and St George’s flags around the country, including across West Northamptonshire. With the topic raising debate both nationally and locally, WNC has now moved to clarify the safety and legal rules around flying flags in public to ensure residents don’t put themselves at risk. “It’s great to see residents having such a sense of national pride and expressing this by flying the union and St George’s flags, particularly with West Northants hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup and the Red Roses due to play at Franklins Gardens this weekend. “I fully encourage people to proudly fly flags on their own homes and property safely but I would urge them not to attempt anything dangerous like putting them up on street furniture or road signs. Not only does this put their own safety at great risk, but also that of motorists if the flags distract them or block their view. There are many other places away from the public highway where flags can be flown so let’s do so and celebrate our country safely.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council “Lampposts are not designed to take the weight of a ladder or person climbing up and we are concerned that someone will be seriously hurt as a result of these actions, not to mention the very real risk of electrocution. For these very reasons it was made an offence under the Highways Act 1980 to fix items to lampposts without the consent of the highways authority and this remains the case today.” Stuart Timmiss, WNC’s Executive Director of Place Communities across West Northamptonshire are regularly encouraged to fly flags on their homes to celebrate key national events and activities, most recently for the 80th anniversary of VJ Day and throughout this summer as the area hosts the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 26, 2025

Extraordinary meeting to debate asylum accommodation issues

26 August 2025 Councillors will debate the current use of three hotels in West Northamptonshire as asylum accommodation at an extraordinary meeting of the Council taking place next month. A special meeting of West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 16 September to consider the following motion proposed by Cllr Daniel Lister: "Following the judgement of Mr Justice Eyre on 19 August, granting Epping Forest District Council an injunction to prevent the inappropriate use of the Bell Hotel in its district as an asylum seeker centre, this Council resolves to instruct, without delay, suitably qualified legal counsel to represent West Northamptonshire Council in seeking an interim injunction against the owners of the Ibis Hotel, Crick, the Holiday Inn, Flore, and the MK Hotel, Deanshanger, to prevent their use as asylum seeker centres. Council further calls upon all members to support this motion." The request for an extraordinary meeting was accepted by WNC’s Monitoring Officer under the rules of the Council’s Constitution, having been seconded and then supported by a further five councillors. The meeting, which can only debate the proposed motion by Cllr Lister, will take place in Northampton’s Guildhall on Tuesday, 16 September at 5pm. It is in addition to the scheduled meeting of Full Council due to take place nine days later on 25 September. In light of the Epping Forest District Council High Court ruling, the Council was already actively reviewing the legal evidence and information it holds as part of preparing a robust case against the use of the three hotels, which are commissioned by the Home Office for asylum accommodation. It is important that the Council has strong evidence similar to that presented in the Epping Forest case to ensure the chances of its success in future legal action, and given the potential significant cost to taxpayers. "We fully understand the concerns of our residents and fellow councillors about the use of these hotels as asylum accommodation and our Council had already started the work to see if it has a robust legal case like Epping’s. It is important to remember that previous actions to seek an injunction on the basis of planning breaches have, until now, not been successful and legal action is very costly to our taxpayers. It would therefore be irresponsible for the Council to apply to the court to seek an injunction without knowing first we have the evidence for a successful outcome. “I welcome the opportunity to discuss these issues publicly with fellow members in the Council Chamber.” - Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of the Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 26, 2025

Prepare for the unexpected: join September’s emergency planning campaign

26 August 2025 This September, residents in West Northamptonshire are invited to take part in the annual September is Preparedness Month campaign, delivered through the national 30 Days 30 Ways initiative. Running from 1–30 September, the campaign shares simple daily activities designed to help people prepare for emergencies and strengthen personal and community resilience. Each day highlights a different theme, from flooding and power cuts to fire safety, first aid, and mental health, with practical tips and resources to put into action. Ahead of the campaign, residents are encouraged to complete a short survey to help assess how prepared they currently feel for unexpected events. The survey opens on 1 September. “When people think about emergencies, they often imagine major global events. But being prepared is just as important for the smaller disruptions we all face from time to time, power cuts, burst water mains, gas leaks, or severe weather. “A few simple steps can make these everyday emergencies easier to deal with and also build resilience for much less likely but more serious situations.” Cllr Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, HR and Regulatory Services at WNC “We’re proud to be part of this year’s programme, working with colleagues across the country to share clear, practical advice that anyone can follow. This campaign has grown year on year, and 2025 will continue that momentum with fresh ideas, useful resources, and engaging challenges people can take part in both online and offline.” Joanne Maddams, Emergency Planning and Business Continuity Manager at WNC and co-founder of the 30 Days 30 Ways UK campaign Residents can follow the campaign through daily updates on social media by searching #30Days30WaysUK, and explore resources and activities on the campaign website. For more information, visit our 30 Days 30 Ways webpage or email [email protected] . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 22, 2025

New provider appointed to deliver vital homelessness support in Northampton

22 August 2025 A new provider has been appointed to deliver vital support for people with a history of rough sleeping or at risk of homelessness in Northampton. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has appointed Connection Support as the new provider of Oasis House following the conclusion of a procurement process. After making the decision not to tender for the new support contract, Midland Heart worked closely with WNC to explore the long-term options for the scheme and the continuation of services. The new 3.5 year contract, with the option to extend for a further year, will ensure continuity of care while strengthening the level of person-centred support available to residents. Oasis House provides 59 units of accommodation for people with multiple and complex needs, offering intensive, tailored support designed to help individuals move away from homelessness and towards long-term stability. This new service is expected to deliver long-term benefits and financial savings for the Council by preventing repeat homelessness and rough sleeping, reducing demand for supported housing and adult social care, and minimising costs linked to offending, poor health, and unemployment. "We are delighted to welcome Connection Support as the new provider at Oasis House. This appointment secures the future of this essential service and ensures that people experiencing homelessness in our area will continue to receive the intensive, tailored support they need. “Oasis House plays a crucial role in helping people rebuild their lives, and this new partnership will strengthen our ability to meet the needs of some of our most vulnerable residents." Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at WNC Over the coming weeks, WNC, Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH), and Midland Heart will work closely with Connection Support to ensure a smooth transition of services. "We’re thrilled to be working with West Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire Partnership Homes to deliver Oasis House, building on the success of Midland Heart and ensuring a smooth transition for residents. “This marks an exciting expansion of our services into Northamptonshire, and we’re committed to bringing our expertise of providing trauma-informed, person-centred support to the area. “Our focus will be on repeat prevention as much as crisis response – helping people to not only find stability today but equipping them with the tools and connections they need to prevent homelessness in the future." Chris Keating, CEO of Connection Support Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 21, 2025

Northamptonshire Day to be marked with countywide event

21 August 2025 A bold new celebration of civic pride, place, and community spirit is coming to Northamptonshire this autumn as West and North Northamptonshire Councils join forces for Northamptonshire Day, taking place on Saturday 25 October 2025. This flagship event will utilise Northampton Market Square as the vibrant hub of culture creativity and connection, showcasing everything that makes the county special - from local talent and rich heritage to delicious food and family-friendly fun - with plans to host next year’s event in the north of the county. Delivered in partnership with Discover Northamptonshire, the official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) and countywide tourism body. Discover Northamptonshire includes the two Councils with organisations across the county to increase footfall and spend, enhancing the visitor economy and driving economic growth. As an accredited LVEP, Discover Northamptonshire works directly with Visit England to expand all areas of tourism from business support to travel trade and internationalisation. "Northamptonshire Day is about celebrating the civic pride we all feel for where we live and work, from our historic towns and stunning countryside to the people, businesses and culture that make our communities thrive. “This is more than just a day of events; it’s the start of a shared tradition, rooted in civic pride and future ambition. We’re proud to recognise Northamptonshire Day as a way in which to champion our county’s strengths and show the dedication we have as local authorities for creating opportunities that reflects the creativity, energy and unity of our county." Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council "I was born and raised in the county and am extremely proud to call Northamptonshire my home - it is an exceptional area of the country. “This celebration is a powerful opportunity to come together as one county. Whether you’re a resident, visitor or local business, Northamptonshire Day is a chance to showcase and enjoy everything that makes this such a special place to live, work and explore. “We are committed to nurturing community spirit and spotlighting local strengths, and this event is a fantastic step forward in that journey." Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council "Discover Northamptonshire is proud to support this countywide celebration of culture and community. “It’s a moment to shine a light on our heritage, creativity, and visitor offer while giving residents and guests the chance to explore hidden gems and shared stories. It’s this kind of collaboration that brings people together and builds pride in place, whilst actively showcasing Northamptonshire as a must-visit destination to all." Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire The event, taking place on Saturday 25 October from 1pm to 7.30pm, will include a range of activities to engage, excite and celebrate all things Northamptonshire, including: Live entertainment with local artists Interactive stalls for the whole family Heritage exhibitions to celebrate and remember the proud history of the county and the incredible actions that have taken place in this area A celebration of culture, inspiring creativity and promoting the innovation delivered locally A county-wide social media celebration using #NorthantsDay to share photos, memories and civic pride Local businesses, schools, and community organisations are encouraged to get involved by decorating their premises in Northamptonshire colours, running themed promotions, or hosting events of their own. Sponsors for Northamptonshire Day so far include Billing Aquadrome, Delapre Abbey, EMW Law, Northampton BID, Northants Sings Out, Silverstone Park, and the South Midlands Local Skills Improvement Plan. This is the first county-wide cultural event delivered in partnership with Discover Northamptonshire, and it showcases the ambition for a lasting annual tradition – one that celebrates what unites us, amplifies local identity, and drives shared success. The event comes one year after the regenerated Market Square reopened and has been host to numerous events and activities to drive footfall locally and will be the dedicated Women’s Rugby World Cup Fan Zone over the next month. The Market Square is home to incredible local traders with new events and businesses moving in on a regular basis – such as a new florist which will set up stall later this month. For full event details, activities and how to take part, please visit the Discover Northamptonshire website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 21, 2025

Council takes action following Epping Forest High Court ruling

21 August 2025 Action is under way at West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) to take similar legal and planning steps to Epping Forest District Council over asylum hotels in its area. The Council is actively reviewing the evidence and information it holds as part of preparing a robust case against the use of the three hotels in its area being used by the Home Office for asylum accommodation. It is important that the Council has strong evidence similar to that presented in the Epping Forest case to ensure the chances of its success in future legal action, and given the significant future cost of this to its local taxpayers. “We have started collating the evidence we need to prepare a robust case against the use of these hotels for asylum accommodation. We know residents are concerned by the use of these hotels as asylum accommodation and we will do everything we can within our powers to keep our communities safe. “The Epping Forest case opens a new legal pathway for us to explore. But it would be irresponsible of us to start a legal action, such as seeking an injunction, without knowing we have the evidence we need for a successful outcome to the case. This type of action is costly and we must be absolutely clear on the consequences for our taxpayers on any potential decision we make.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of WNC Cllr Arnull added that the use and locations of the three hotels in West Northants had never been suitable for asylum accommodation and continued to place unreasonable and unsustainable strain on local services. He recently wrote to the Deputy Prime Minister about the wider use of asylum accommodation in the community, along with raising these issues and concerns with the Home Office. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 22, 2025

Rugby World Cup brings business boost to West Northamptonshire

22 August 2025 The Women’s Rugby World Cup has brought a welcome boost for local hotels, restaurants and businesses in West Northamptonshire, with thousands of extra visitors flocking to the county. Four international teams are currently staying in West Northamptonshire, with the county’s hotels benefitting from long-term team stays of up to a month. With Franklin’s Gardens hosting matches for large crowds to enjoy, the tournament has also brought a surge of visitors filling local hotels, booking restaurants and supporting high street businesses. As well as the uplift in tourism, the event has created a cultural buzz across the county, with global visitors and local people coming together to celebrate the very best in women’s rugby. West Northamptonshire Council was also pleased to host a business event on Harnessing Sporting Excellence to ensure all local businesses benefited from this largescale opportunity for the local economy. “We are incredibly proud to welcome the Women’s Rugby World Cup to West Northamptonshire. The tournament will not only deliver world-class sporting moments, but also a major boost for our local businesses and hotels. “It has been fantastic to see our communities and visitors come together to celebrate, with last weekend’s spectacular welcome ceremony in our historic Guildhall setting the tone for the weeks ahead. We look forward to continuing to showcase everything our area has to offer to a global audience – and hope many of those visiting will return to enjoy West Northamptonshire again in the future.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council, said: Local businesses have embraced Rugby World Cup fever, with many employers across the county offering special discounts, offers and competitions such as Willow Lake Water Park and Delapre Abbey. The town centre is also alive with colour, thanks to vibrant city dressing for the tournament, eye-catching yarn bombing by the Northamptonshire Women’s Institute, and shops such as Abraxas Cookshop on St Giles Street in Northampton creating themed window displays to mark the occasion. “I am happy to say that the Rugby World Cup has been a real boost to us all in the county. August and early September are normally a bit lower on sales once the school holiday period kicks in, so the timing of the rugby has been perfect. “The uplift has been significant for the hotels hosting teams, with month-long block bookings bringing not just room sales but also high-value food and drink spend, as well as event space hire for storage, physio and media use. “Culturally, hosting the world’s top women’s teams has been a real treat - our staff and communities have enjoyed welcoming visitors from across the globe, and for some players it’s even been their very first visit to the UK. We’ve had fun sharing simple things - like explaining what porridge is at breakfast! Overall, there has been a real positive vibe around the hotels. “This largescale activity completely lines with the mission of the Local Visitor Economy Partnership, Discover Northamptonshire, and I’m certain this event will serve as a brilliant advert for the UK as a destination for global sports events and a fantastic showcase for the county, West Northamptonshire Council, and Northampton Saints, who have done a superb job in hosting.” Andrew Hollett, Chair of the Northamptonshire Hotelier’s Forum Find out more about visiting Northamptonshire including attractions, events and where to stay on the Discover Northamptonshire website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 22, 2025

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service introduces two new vehicles to enhance wildfire response

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has introduced two new Seasonal Support Vehicles as a trial to enhance our ability to respond to wildfires and better protect people and land in Northamptonshire. Based at Woodford Halse and Raunds Fire Stations, the vehicles have been strategically placed on different sides of the county to cover the whole of Northamptonshire. The Seasonal Support Vehicles are designed to transport equipment and firefighters to support crews at fires in locations that may not be easily accessed by larger fire engines. The Vehicles don’t have fire hoses and instead are equipped with specialised tools to fight wildfires such as beaters that are used to create breaks in the ground helping to prevent fires spreading, and wildfire backpacks that can carry up to 20 litres of water each. New Firefighting blowers have also been introduced. They are designed to blow and push fire back on itself rather than spreading further across dry ground. The two new vehicles have been brought into the fleet as part of plans to respond to climate change and incidents related to its effects, such as wildfires, which are also outlined as a priority in Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Services’ Community Risk Management Plan. Wildfires have become a national issue for fire and rescue services – the National Fire Chiefs Council reported in June this year that fire and rescue services in England and Wales had responded to 564 wildfires, a 717% increase in wildfires incidents for the same period last year. [embedded content] Area Manager for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service Neil Sadler has overseen the project. He said: “We have introduced the vehicles into our fleet on a trial basis following learning from the summer of 2022, where Northamptonshire had a large number of wildfires, and the experiences of other fire services this summer like Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service, who have been heavily hit by wildfires in the past month. “Wildfires are a risk for our largely rural county and we are constantly reviewing our capability to respond to them effectively and safely. The Seasonal Support Vehicles and our new equipment will help to ensure that we are prepared to protect the people, homes, and land in Northamptonshire.” As part of the trial, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service will be looking into how the vehicles could be used to support the response to flooding in the county and what they would be equipped with.

August 21, 2025

Prologis UK to Deliver Flagship Build-to-Suit Facility for Marks & Spencer at DIRFT

21 August 2025 Prologis has been selected to deliver a build-to-suit National Distribution Centre for Marks & Spencer at DIRFT — a flagship development that will support the transformation of the retailer’s food logistics network while showcasing Prologis’ expertise in designing and delivering highly complex logistics facilities. Spanning 1.3 million square feet, the facility represents a £340 million investment — the largest in M&S’s food supply chain history — and forms a key part of the company’s strategy to double the size of its food business. The construction phase is expected to support over 2,000 jobs, with around 1,000 roles once operational — covering logistics, management, and technical engineering. The development combines chilled storage, advanced automated fulfilment, returns and recycling operations, and dedicated office space — all tailored to M&S’s operational requirements and growth ambitions. TGW Logistics has been appointed as the automation partner for the project. Located at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal, the campus will be fully electric and designed to achieve a BREEAM Outstanding rating — an internationally recognised benchmark for sustainable building performance. Proven Build-to-Suit Expertise With decades of experience in land acquisition, site selection, permitting, construction and delivery, Prologis is uniquely positioned to manage complex, large-scale projects like this one. Its in-house teams streamline the process from design through delivery, ensuring maximized value engineering, accelerated timelines and reliable technical expertise at every step. By partnering with industry-leading architects, consultants and contractors, Prologis consistently delivers facilities on or ahead of schedule. “M&S selected Prologis for our experience in delivering complex large-scale logistics projects designed to meet the highest environmental standards. This development enables a future-fit supply chain for M&S and brings lasting economic value to the Midlands — through skilled jobs, resilient infrastructure and investment in one of the UK’s most important logistics locations.” Paul Weston, Regional Head at Prologis UK DIRFT: A Key Driver of Regional Growth This latest milestone takes Prologis’ leased or committed space at DIRFT III to over 75%, reinforcing the site’s role as one of the UK’s most mature intermodal logistics hubs. Currently, more than 10,000 people are employed across DIRFT in a growing range of logistics, operations, and technical roles. In 2023/24 alone, customers at DIRFT contributed £13.1 million in business rates. The site generates £219 million in annual GVA, making it one of the region’s most important economic assets. “This investment is a strong signal of continued confidence in West Northamptonshire and wider South Midlands region as a centre of national and European logistics. As the UK’s largest inland port, DIRFT plays a critical role in supporting jobs, attracting business, and driving economic growth across the backbone of the UK. We look forward to working with all stakeholders on the long-term future of the site as it continues to evolve.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Setting New Standards for Sustainable Logistics On completion, the new M&S facility is expected to be the largest building in the world to achieve BREEAM Outstanding certification and is also targeting EPC A+. On-site features include a large-scale rooftop PV array, EV charging, energy-saving technologies, and extensive use of recycled materials — demonstrating how Prologis build-to-suit developments combine technical excellence with sustainable innovation. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 20, 2025

Sustainability refocus set to progress after scrutiny meeting

20 August 2025 A refocus of West Northamptonshire Council’s sustainability work and the removal of local climate targets is set to move forward following further scrutiny by its councillors. At their meeting last night (Tuesday, 19 August) the Council’s Place and Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee reviewed the recent decision by Cabinet members to change the authority’s approach to its sustainability commitments and has decided to take no further action. It means the Council will continue with its plans to remove local targets – to be net zero in its operational emissions by 2030 and for those of residents and business by 2045 – in favour of focusing its limited public resources on practical projects that deliver the greatest value to local residents and businesses. However, it is recognised that the Government’s target remains for the wider area to be Net Zero by 2050. The refocus, led by the new political administration, recognises that while the Council cannot control global climate change, it can achieve better results for local communities and nature by focusing on matters within its control and for which it has significant influence. WNC will continue its wider sustainability work, still publishing its Annual Sustainability Report and working towards its environmental accreditation. Last night’s meeting followed a call-in of the July Cabinet decision by a group of eight councillors who requested full scrutiny took place by the committee. With the committee determining that no action should be taken on the Cabinet’s original decision, WNC will remove its local net zero targets and progress with work to develop and deliver a new Sustainability Strategy that has direct positive impacts and tangible projects for communities. Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council said: “We are dedicated to protecting and improving our environment and with limited budgets and resources, pursuing these net-zero targets is simply not affordable for our residents and detracts our focus from more realistic, tangible projects we can deliver within our communities to improve their lives and reduce energy bills. “With Cabinet’s decision scrutinised and found to be a sound approach, we will now move forward with the removal of these targets and refocus our sustainability efforts for the benefit of residents.” Environmental initiatives set to move forward include local walking and cycling infrastructure projects and activities through the local nature recovery scheme as well as energy efficiency measures to make homes warmer and reduce bills. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 21, 2025

Congratulations to students receiving their GCSE results today!

21 August 2025 Today, 21 August 2025, is GCSE results day with many students in West Northamptonshire receiving their much-anticipated grades. “A huge congratulations to every student receiving their GCSE results today. This is a moment to celebrate your achievements and reflect on your journey you’ve taken to get here. “I hope the grades are what you expected and you are pleased with them. Whether you’re heading to sixth form, college, starting T-Levels or exploring apprenticeships, your future is full of exciting opportunities. “If your results weren’t quite what you hoped for, please don’t be disheartened. There are many options available, and your school’s teachers and career advisors are there to help guide you through your next steps. “Whatever you choose, be proud of getting your results today, it is a huge achievement.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 21, 2025

Exit Capacity Calculator –

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August 21, 2025

Venue capacity calculator – building exits

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August 20, 2025

Statement regarding Epping asylum hotel High Court ruling

20 August 2025 “We have always been clear with the Government and the public that the current use of three hotels in West Northamptonshire have never been suitable locations for asylum accommodation and place an unreasonable and unsustainable strain on our already-stretched local services. “We also know these hotels cause concerns for our communities and I have raised these issues with the Home Office and written to the Deputy Prime Minister about the wider use of asylum accommodation within our community. “We are currently considering the implications of this judgment to understand any similarities and differences and are actively looking at the options now available to us. As such I am unable to comment further at this stage but will issue a further update when able to do so. In the meantime, we will continue to work with partners in the police and in our communities to make sure that residents’ concerns are heard and addressed.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 19, 2025

A new home for local support: Council’s One Stop Shop is moving to One Angel Square this September

19 August 2025 From the end of September 2025, West Northamptonshire Council’s customer services One Stop Shop in Northampton will move from the Guildhall to its new home at One Angel Square, accessible via the St John's Street entrance. This move brings together a wide range of council services and local support partners all under one roof, making it quicker and easier for residents to get the help they need in one place. Alongside West Northants Council teams like Housing Options, Wellbeing, and Adult Social Care, the new One Stop Shop will provide access, advice and signposting to a range of key local partners including Citizens Advice, Community Law Service, DWP (Jobcentre Plus), Migrant Help, NDAS, and Northampton Town FC Community Trust. Together, they’ll offer advice on a range of queries our residents may have including benefits support, legal support, domestic abuse help, health checks, EU Settlement Scheme support and employability skills, all under one roof. This change is part of the Council’s wider work to use public buildings more efficiently and improve the way services are delivered. The new One Stop Shop at One Angel Square will be offering a more accessible environment, with modern self-serve areas whilst offering a joined-up support from council and community partners. The new space was designed to give customers a better experience, whether they're popping in to ask about council tax, looking for housing support, or speaking to someone about benefits, health, or general advice. “This move is about making life easier for people who need help and advice. It’s about putting our residents first and creating a space where you can come in, get the support you need from a range of professionals, and leave feeling listened to and supported. “By bringing everything under one roof in a modern space, we’re also making better use of council buildings and saving money that we can invest back into frontline services.” Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services Residents can also access a range of our services on our website 24/7. Our customer service team alongside other key council services and partner agencies offer a wide range of drop-in options across West Northamptonshire. You can find a drop-in session near you on our website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

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