04 June 2024

An entertainer in a costume, performing to a group of young children in an outdoor play area.

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), along with Towcester Women’s Institute, are taking part in the Great Big Green Week this June to highlight the need for urgent action on climate and nature.

Taking place between 8 and 16 June 2024, the climate action campaign known as the Great Big Green Week will see thousands of people across the UK organising local festivals and events. 

Now in its fourth year, the campaign events will draw attention to climate change and destruction of the natural world, while also making a connection with these issues in local communities and highlighting the positive impact that local residents can have to help to create a better world, for us now and for the next generation.

In Towcester, on Saturday 15 June, WNC are hosting an event in the afternoon aided by volunteers from Towcester WI, with climate action and environmental stalls set up in Whittons Lane from 1:30pm. There will also be two family-friendly wildlife theatre shows led by Laugh Out Loud Theatre Company. 

“Ranger Rita’s Animal Amble” will take people on a trail around the Watermeadows where they’ll meet various animal characters along the way and learn some fascinating wildlife facts. The shows are at 2pm and 3:30pm and will take roughly 45 minutes. Both shows will start and finish at Whittons Lane and people will need to register their spot with a volunteer from Towcester WI. 

There is no need to pre-book but do be aware that there is a limit of 50 adults plus children per show. Well-behaved dogs are allowed to join the walk but must be kept on the lead at all times and cannot disrupt the performance elements. The show is free to attend and has been sponsored by WNC and Towcester WI.

Towcester Library will also be holding a Great Big Green Week Gardener’s Swap from 10am to 2pm alongside craft activities throughout the day.

The Great Big Green Week is being organised by The Climate Coalition, the UK’s largest group of people dedicated to action against climate change, whose members include the National Trust, WWF, Women's Institute, Oxfam, RSPB and more.

“The environment is something that’s really close to my heart and the more we can do at a local level the better.

“We’re delighted to be a part of the Great Big Green Week in our home county and promoting the wonderful green spaces that we’re so lucky to have here in Northamptonshire. ‘Ranger Rita’s Animal Amble’ is a fun, fact-filled, interactive, pantomime-style show for people of all ages to enjoy.”

Emma Kendrick, director of Laugh Out Loud Theatre Company

Towcester WI meets at the Sawpit Centre on the first Thursday of the month at 7:30pm. Get in touch by emailing [email protected].

For more information about Laugh Out Loud Theatre Company visit loltheatre.co.uk or find them on social media at facebook.com/LolTheatre.

For further information about the Great Big Green Week, including details on how to get involved and take part, please visit greatbiggreenweek.com.

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Northampton restaurant owner fined after breaching Fire Safety Legislation
November 02, 2024
Northampton restaurant owner fined after breaching Fire Safety Legislation
A Northampton restaurant has been fined for putting lives at risk by breaching fire safety regulations. The Protection team at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service acted on intelligence that the Mewar Haveli restaurant, based on Wellingborough Road, was using the loft space at the premises to house several of its employees. A Fire Protection Officer inspected the premises and found evidence of that practice, as well as other deficiencies. This included no fire detection system having been installed and inadequate escape and access routes (a loft hatch and vertical ladder for access and egress) – raising the risk that occupants would not be warned if a fire started and could end up trapped in the building. The restaurant was served with a prohibition notice by the Fire Service in April 2023 which prohibited people from sleeping on the premises. The Service also took the decision that the breaches of fire safety legislation offences were so severe that they warranted prosecution. The owner, Suraj Pathak, was charged with breaching the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and pleaded guilty to the charge at Northampton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (October 29). At the sentencing of Mr Pathak, a community order was issued for 200 hours of unpaid work to be completed within 12 months, and he was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £114 and costs of £750. Following the hearing, Scott Richards, Head of Protection at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Our Fire Protection Officers acted quickly when they received information that safety was being compromised at these premises. “Our primary aim is to protect people, and where possible we will work with restaurants and other businesses to make sure they meet the standards required to keep both their staff and customers safe. “On this occasion however, the breaches were so severe that we were left with no option but to prosecute and send a strong message to the owner that it is unacceptable to put lives at risk. “We are happy that the Magistrates’ Court recognised that risk and sentenced the owner accordingly, and it serves as a reminder to all businesses that fire safety is incredibly important and that there will be consequences for not complying with it.” Businesses can contact the Protection Team at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service for specialist advice. To receive a bespoke safety approach, you can call 01604 797 000 or email fireprotection@northantsfire.gov.uk There is also a suite of safety tips and advice for businesses and responsible persons at www.northantsfire.gov.uk/information-for-business-owners/
Progress underway to deliver new SEND school in West Northamptonshire
October 31, 2024
Progress underway to deliver new SEND school in West Northamptonshire
31 October 2024 West Northamptonshire Council is pleased to announce significant progress on the construction of the new special education needs and disabilities (SEND) school in Tiffield, Northamptonshire. With a total investment of £21.4 million, this state-of-the-art facility is designed to support the educational needs of pupils aged four to 18 and will enhance the Council’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. Construction, led by Willmott Dixon through the Department for Education’s Construction Framework, is well underway, with completion projected for Summer 2025. The school will feature a range of specialist facilities, including dedicated teaching spaces, a soft playroom, a sensory room, a rebound therapy room, and expansive outdoor play areas. Key achievements to date include the demolition of all four derelict buildings, successful re-housing of badgers, and completion of the steel frame structure, external boarding on two elevations, and various internal and external installations. Looking ahead, the next milestones for the project include the completion of the roof and all external boarding, finalization of fire boarding, installation of windows and doors, and the setting up of internal partitions. “We are excited to see the progress being made at Tiffield School. This facility will provide invaluable support to our local children with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they receive the quality education they deserve. We remain committed to creating inclusive environments that cater to every child’s needs, while also prioritizing sustainability.” Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council If a family is interested in a place at Tiffield or Gateway schools for their child, this will be considered as part of their SEND annual review or when a draft plan is issued. For more updates on the Tiffield School project and other initiatives from West Northamptonshire Council, please visit our website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Fire Service urges people to follow safety advice when having bonfires and fireworks at home
November 01, 2024
Fire Service urges people to follow safety advice when having bonfires and fireworks at home
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) would like to remind people to stay safe around bonfires and fireworks this season. While the number of bonfire and firework related fires we attend remains low, out of control fires of this kind can be devastating. The Service would always recommend going to an official display, but if you are doing your own display or bonfire, please remember the following advice to keep yourself and your homes safe. Before lighting any fireworks, you should always follow manufacturer instructions carefully and read them in the day or by torchlight, never by a naked flame. Never go back to a firework once it has been lit, and never throw a firework or put it in your pocket. Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a safety firework lighter or fuse wick, and stand well back. Collect fireworks after a display with care. Douse them with water and dispose of them properly in a metal container. Sparklers can reach temperatures of 100°C, so stay safe by ensuring you always wear gloves, preferably leather ones. Supervise children with sparklers and don’t give one to children under the age of five. Hold sparklers at an arm’s length, and don’t wave them near other people. Put used sparklers into a bucket of sand or water. Bonfires are a hazard at any time of the year. If you plan to have a bonfire, make sure you build them well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs. Never use flammable liquids to light the fire such as paraffin or petrol, and don’t burn furniture, aerosols or bottles. Never leave a bonfire unsupervised – especially around children. Pour water on embers before leaving. Before lighting a bonfire, always check the structure is sound and there are no small children or animals hiding inside. And always have a bucket of water, garden hose or fire extinguisher ready and on standby, and never drink alcohol when in charge of a bonfire or fireworks display. NFRS recommends having one person responsible for lighting a bonfire. That person, and any helpers, should wear suitable clothing such as a substantial outer garment made of wool or other low flammable material and strong boots or shoes. Tina Collett, Prevention Team Leader at Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We would always recommend going to an official firework display, but if you are planning to have fireworks or a bonfire at home during this period, please follow safety advice and take care. Fireworks can be fun and beautiful, but they can also cause devastating injuries to people and damage to property if they are used in the wrong way. Please also be mindful of others and pets, as this time can be unsettling for some. If your own bonfire begins to get out of control, or you see any unattended fires and anti-social behaviour surrounding fire and fireworks, please call 999.” In the last three years NFRS has attended a total of 22 fires on bonfire night and 7 fires caused by fireworks. While the number of fires we attend during this period is reducing year by year, we are still urging people to follow safety advice to keep themselves, their families, and their homes safe.
Net Zero Summit & Business Expo - Driving Positive Change into 202
October 30, 2024
Net Zero Summit & Business Expo - Driving Positive Change into 202
30 October 2024 Businesses of all sizes are invited to attend the inspirational Net Zero Summit & Business Expo at Silverstone on 28th November. It’s a day dedicated to sustainability, collaboration, innovation, and inspiration. Attendees will hear from leaders of iconic brands like Silverstone and Delta Cosworth about their approach to tackling net zero alongside forward-thinking local businesses ready to share insights they’ve learned along the way. Join for the whole day or dip in and out of the exhibition, morning conference and afternoon breakouts with a networking lunch included! Aimed at anyone in an organisation who is interested in saving money by reducing energy bills and meeting environmental, sustainability and governance commitments. This exciting event will bring together businesses, experts, and agencies who can help drive everyone along on their net zero journey. The Net Zero Summit & Business Expo is a partnership between Ngage Solutions, West Northamptonshire Council, and Milton Keynes City Council. The event is funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting local businesses in their efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices. Collaboration is crucial for environmental progress, enabling more effective planning and implementation of sustainable actions. "We are thrilled to be part of this initiative that brings together key stakeholders to drive positive change. The Net Zero Summit & Business Expo is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to learn from experts, share best practices, and collaborate on innovative solutions to achieve net zero." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC “We’re really pleased to be part of this event, which showcases our commitment to sustainability and economic growth that benefits our communities. We know that it can be challenging for businesses to know where to start in their decarbonisation journey but working in partnership we can support them by setting the right foundations to achieve net zero. I look forward to continuing this work as we strive to deliver a greener and healthier future.” Cabinet Member for Economy, Sustainability, and Innovation at Milton Keynes City Council, Cllr Shanika Mahendran “The summit offers an excellent chance for businesses to gain inspiration and create valuable connections. With a diverse lineup of speakers, the event promises to provide insights and guidance for all businesses, regardless of where they are on their path to achieving net zero.” Daniel Cope, Climate Change Manager at Ngage Solutions To get more information on what’s happening on the day, and to register for the event, please visit bit.ly/net-zero-summit-24 . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Bluetongue restriction zone extended to West Northamptonshire
October 30, 2024
Bluetongue restriction zone extended to West Northamptonshire
30 October 2024 Following a positive case in Buckinghamshire on the border of West Northamptonshire, the bluetongue restriction zone has been expanded to include West Northants as of 25 October. This means that farmers across the area must now following restrictions on moving animals to help control the spread of the disease. Anyone can check whether they fall within the restriction zone using DEFRA’s interactive map on their website . Bluetongue is a notifiable disease transmitted by midges, affecting ruminants such as sheep, cattle, goats, and deer, as well as camelids like llamas and alpacas. Cases of the BTV3 strain of bluetongue have been confirmed across the East of England. The disease does not affect humans, horses, or pigs. Farmers who suspect a case must report it to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) immediately by calling 03000 200 301. Symptoms vary among affected animals but can include fever, lesions, redness around the mouth, eyes, nose, or above the hooves, excessive salivation, and nasal discharge. In some cases, animals may show few or no symptoms. “We understand that this is a concerning time for our farmers, but these restrictions have been put in place by the APHA to prevent further cases and halt the spread of this infectious disease. I encourage everyone who may be impacted to review the guidance available, stay up to date on the latest information and take necessary precautions to protect their livestock.” Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services Useful information for farmers: Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Halloween and Bonfire Night
October 30, 2024
Halloween and Bonfire Night
Firework Safety
October 30, 2024
Firework Safety
As autumn arrives, you may be tempted to hold your own bonfire or fireworks display. It’s always safer to go to an official display, but remember the following advice if you do hold your own. Fireworks are fun but pose a danger if mishandled or misused. Make sure you • Follow manufacturer instructions carefully and read them in the day or by torchlight, never a naked flame • Never go back to a firework once it has been lit, and never throw a firework or put it in your pocket • Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a safety firework lighter or fuse wick, and stand well back • Collect fireworks after a display with care. Douse them with water and dispose of them properly in a metal container Sparklers can reach temperatures of 100°C, so stay safe by ensuring you: • Always wear gloves, preferably leather ones • Supervise children with sparklers and don’t give one to children under the age of five • Hold sparklers at an arm’s length, and don’t wave them near other people • Put used sparklers into a bucket of sand or water Bonfires are a hazard at any time of the year. Make sure you: • Build them well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs • Never use flammable liquids to light the fire such as paraffin or petrol, and don’t burn furniture, aerosols or bottles • Never leave a bonfire unsupervised – especially around children • Pour water on embers before leaving And always remember: • Have a bucket of water, garden hose or fire extinguisher ready and on standby • Never drink alcohol when in charge of a bonfire or fireworks display. Fireworks: knowing the law Unfortunately, people sometimes use this time of year to misuse fireworks. Fireworks may be beautiful to watch but they can also cause devastating injuries to people and damage to property if they are used in the wrong way. Never throw them or store them unsafely, such as in a pocket. The laws state: • You can’t buy fireworks if you’re under 18. • Fireworks cannot be set off between 11pm and 7am, except for Bonfire Night, when the cut off is midnight. On New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, the cut off is 1am. • You must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places. • You should only buy fireworks from registered dealers or licensed shops • You can be fined an unlimited amount and imprisoned for up to six months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90. Click here to view
Residents are urged to access vital winter financial support
October 29, 2024
Residents are urged to access vital winter financial support
29 October 2024 With rising costs affecting households, now is the time to ensure that everyone who is eligible can access the help they need. A number of schemes are in place to help with heating bills, household expenses, and general financial hardship. Support available includes: Pension Credit : this benefit is available to residents of State Pension age on a low income. Pension Credit can top up weekly income to £218.15 for single pensioners or £332.95 for couples. Additionally, it unlocks access to other benefits, such as help with council tax, a free TV licence for over-75s, and additional support like the Winter Fuel Payment. Winter Fuel Payment : residents born on or before 25 September 1957 could receive between £250 and £600 to help with heating bills this winter. The amount depends on age, household circumstances, and if other benefits are being claimed. Cold Weather Payment : For those on certain benefits, a payment of £25 is made when the temperature drops to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days. It’s automatic for eligible residents, so no need to apply. Warm Home Discount : this is a one-off discount of £150 on electricity bills for low-income households. Those eligible for Pension Credit or other qualifying benefits can receive this discount automatically through their energy provider. Household Support Fund : this benefit is for residents facing immediate hardship, the Household Support Fund provides essential help with food, utilities, and other urgent needs. Applications can be made via the council’s website for those who need emergency support. Council Tax Reduction : low-income households, including pensioners and those on certain benefits, can apply for Council Tax Reduction to lower their council tax bill. This is particularly useful for households balancing limited income with rising living costs. To ensure residents have access to advice and support, West Northamptonshire Council is running drop-in sessions across the area. Here, residents can receive free money advice and assistance with filling out applications for these financial support schemes. The sessions will take place at local libraries, community centres, and GP surgeries throughout the winter months. Full details, including dates and locations, are available on our monthly drop in sessions page . “We know this winter will be particularly tough for many residents, with rising costs putting additional pressure on household budgets. That’s why we’re urging everyone who is eligible to make sure they apply for the financial support they’re entitled to. Whether it’s help with heating bills or assistance to cover other essentials, these schemes are there to provide vital relief. Please take advantage of our drop-in sessions where our advisors can guide you through the application process and offer tailored advice.” Councillor Mike Hallam, Cabinet member for Corporate Services and HR For more information about the available support and to find out about the nearest drop-in session, visit our monthly drop in sessions page or call 0300 126 7000 . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Community-led changes to parish boundaries and governance to take effect in 2025 elections
October 29, 2024
Community-led changes to parish boundaries and governance to take effect in 2025 elections
29 October 2024 These changes, set to come into effect for the elections on 1 May 2025, are the result of a year-long review process that included extensive consultation with residents and parish councils. The approved changes include adjustments to parish boundaries, the restructuring of certain parish wards and updates to councillor numbers to ensure better representation for growing communities. These revisions aim to ensure that parishes can operate effectively, remain aligned with the changing demographics in West Northamptonshire and ensure fair and effective representation for all communities involved. West Northamptonshire Council has received formal consent from the Local Government Boundary Commission for England regarding protected arrangements, allowing the following changes to be implemented: To improve the balance of representation and reflect population growth, the parish of Daventry will see adjustments to its ward boundaries. The boundaries between the parishes of Boughton and Kingsthorpe, Moulton and Pitsford, Dodford and Weedon Bec, Great Houghton and Little Houghton, Hackleton and Wootton, Roade and Stoke Bruerne, and Tiffield and Towcester have been adjusted to better reflect the communities they serve or new developments. In Overstone, Pitsford, Ravensthorpe, Thorpe Mandeville, West Hunsbury parishes, the number of councillors will change to improve local representation. "We are incredibly grateful to all the residents and organisations that participated in this Community Governance review. The feedback we received was vital in helping us make decisions that will benefit our communities. These changes are about ensuring that local governance remains fit for purpose as our parishes grow and evolve. “Several other proposals came forward which were hotly debated in the communities concerned. Throughout this process we have ensured that the wishes of residents came first, and where there wasn't sufficient support for some initial proposals they have been dropped and the status quo has prevailed.” Councillor Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Further information on the Community Governance Review, including detailed maps of the changes and the full Community Governance Order, will be published on the Council’s website in the coming weeks. For more information, please visit the Community Governance Review page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Parents are encouraged to get their school aged children vaccinated ahead of winter
October 28, 2024
Parents are encouraged to get their school aged children vaccinated ahead of winter
28 October 2024 Public Health West Northamptonshire are encouraging parents and guardians to ensure their school aged children take up the free flu jab this year, ahead of the winter months. Flu is a highly contagious infection which can be caught by anyone and can have serious health implications. As well as being an unpleasant illness, in some cases it can lead to more serious problems such as bronchitis, pneumonia, middle ear infection, sepsis, and can prove fatal. When infected with flu, young people pose a risk of transmission to anyone they come in to contact with. Some people are more at risk of developing complications if they catch the virus, including the elderly, very young and people with pre-existing health conditions. “In 2023-2024 52.2% of children from reception to year 6 and 63.5% from year 7 to year 11 in West Northamptonshire did not get vaccinated against flu, increasing the likeliness of them catching and spreading the flu infection. I urge parents to give consent and get their children vaccinated as soon as they are invited.” Dr Annapurna Sen, Consultant in Health Protection for WNC By getting vaccinated children are protected from catching the virus and can help to protect others. School aged children will be invited for their flu jab through one of the following routes: If your child attends school, they will be invited to attend a clinic held at their school Home schooled children and those who do not attend school will be invited to attend one of the school age immunisation service community clinics For parents or children who do not want their child to be vaccinated in either of the above settings, they can contact their GP directly and book a flu jab appointment “It is important that as parents we look after our children and protect our loved ones, especially over the colder months when we know illnesses spread more easily. I am appealing to all parents to ensure their children are vaccinated to help protect them from the virus and its complication, the flu vaccine is free to all children from reception to year 11.” Cllr Fiona Baker, cabinet member for Children, Families and Education For further information visit our Immunisation page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Tenant feedback sought on new tenancy policy
October 28, 2024
Tenant feedback sought on new tenancy policy
28 October 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is inviting tenants and residents to have their say on the Council’s draft Tenancy Policy, which outlines how tenancies will be managed under new Consumer Standards for Social Housing Landlords introduced by the Regulator of Social Housing in April 2024. The new rules, including the Tenancy Standard, require all Registered Providers of Social Housing to publish clear and accessible policies on managing tenancies. While WNC is not legally required to consult on the draft Tenancy Policy itself, there is a legal obligation to engage tenants on any changes to housing management, policy, or practice. This draft policy is important as it replaces the previous Northampton Borough Council Tenancy Policy (2019) and has been designed to reflect the Council’s recently adopted Tenancy Strategy. It also gives tenants increased rights to influence how their homes and services are managed, providing a platform for their voices to be heard before the policy is finalised. Developed in collaboration with Northamptonshire Partnership (NPH), who manage homes owned by WNC, the draft policy outlines the types of tenancies available for Council-managed homes. As a key part of WNC’s role as a landlord, the new policy will have an impact on current and future tenants. "We recognise how vital it is for our tenants to have a say in how their tenancies are managed. This consultation offers an important opportunity for residents to share their views on the new Tenancy Policy, ensuring it meets their needs and reflects their priorities. We encourage all interested parties to provide their feedback." Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing at West Northamptonshire Council Feedback is being sought from WNC tenants, local tenant and resident groups, registered providers, and other stakeholders. By participating in the consultation, residents will help shape the future of housing management in West Northamptonshire and ensure that the policy addresses the issues that matter most to them. To learn more about the draft Tenancy Policy and to submit your views, please visit the West Northamptonshire Council consultation hub before Wednesday 27 November. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Streets of Change film shares Northampton stories of homelessness and recovery with global audience
October 28, 2024
Streets of Change film shares Northampton stories of homelessness and recovery with global audience
28 October 2024 The Streets of Change film and virtual reality (VR) experience, created by One to One Development Trust in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), continues to make a powerful impact as it reaches international audiences. The film, which brings to life the realities of homelessness and recovery in Northampton is now available for global viewing on YouTube and since its debut, has engaged thousands of people across 10 events, both locally and internationally. The film has not only captivated local audiences in West Northamptonshire but has also been recognised on the world stage after recently being selected for prestigious festivals, including the Workers Unite Film Festival in New York and the Aesthetica Film Festival in York, England. In November, it will be featured at the 30th Anniversary of the International Network of Street Papers (INSP) in Glasgow, where representatives from 35 countries will have the chance to experience the film. “It’s incredibly powerful to see Streets of Change resonate not only within our local community but also on an international level. “This project shines a much-needed light on the human stories behind homelessness and recovery, fostering empathy and understanding across borders. We’re proud to support a film that is reaching global audiences, raising awareness, and helping to reshape perceptions of homelessness in communities around the world.” Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing at WNC. "It’s truly inspiring to see Streets of Change gaining recognition on the international stage at prestigious festivals like Aesthetica and Workers Unite and we’re thrilled to bring it to the upcoming INSP event in Glasgow. We are dedicated to bringing this project to new audiences and raising awareness of homelessness and poverty locally and globally. We look forward to further impactful projects like this as well as the upcoming screening of the film at the University of Northampton." Judi Alston, Streets of Change Director and CEO of One to One Development Trust "All too often, the real-life experience of homelessness is either overlooked or misunderstood. Streets of Change addresses this in an authentic and artistic way that will resonate with our global network of street paper organisations working to end poverty. We are proud to feature this important film in our news service." Mike Findlay-Agnew, Chief Executive of the International Network of Street Papers The film’s global reach is a significant milestone in raising awareness of homelessness, with local organisations like The Hope Centre in Northampton and the Tuesday Night Team using the VR experience to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding within communities. As Streets of Change continues to gain international recognition, its message is clear: homelessness and poverty are global challenges, and the film serves as a powerful tool to inspire change and foster empathy. Watch Streets of Change on YouTube . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Sepsis: get to know the risks, spot the signs, and act fast
October 25, 2024
Sepsis: get to know the risks, spot the signs, and act fast
25 October 2024 Residents across West Northamptonshire are being urged to understand the risks and spot the signs of sepsis so that they can take the right action and act fast to protect themselves and others. Sepsis happens when an infection you already have, triggers a chain reaction throughout your body. Infections that lead to sepsis most often start in the lung, urinary tract, skin, or gastrointestinal tract. Without timely treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection can lead to sepsis. “Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency; therefore, it is very important that people understand the critical role they play in infection prevention and sepsis recognition. Delay in treatment may lead to septic shock, causing a dramatic drop in blood pressure, damaging the lungs, kidneys and other vital organs which may lead to death” Dr Annapurna Sen, Consultant Health Protection at West Northamptonshire Council (WNC). Symptoms of sepsis can develop quickly and often resemble other common conditions, making it a challenge to diagnose. The acronym TIME can help you to assess, and act fast: Temperature – high temperature or extremely low temperature Infection – Be vigilant if you already have an infection of either lungs, kidneys, stomach/intestines, and skin or surgical wound infections. Mental decline – is the person confused, sleepy or difficult to wake? Extremely ill – does the person feel symptoms are intolerable with shortness of breath, palpitations, cold/clammy skin, and they experiencing severe pain or discomfort? “Recent reports highlight that local communities remain unaware of the risks and signs of sepsis. By raising awareness of how people can spot the signs and symptoms, and know how to act fast, if sepsis is suspected, it can help families across West Northamptonshire and beyond “I would urge everyone to familiarise themselves with the symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if they suspect sepsis. Timely treatment with antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and support for organ function is critical for saving lives”. Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health, and Regulatory Services at WNC Click here to find out more about sepsis and infections. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Operation to crack down on private hire drivers accepting passengers illegally
October 25, 2024
Operation to crack down on private hire drivers accepting passengers illegally
25 October 2024 An operation between West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Northamptonshire Police to crack down on private hire drivers illegally accepting passengers in Northampton without first taking a booking catches drivers not adhering to the rules. The operation, which took place on the evening of Friday, 11 October and caught 14 drivers who will now face a review of their private hire drivers licence, follows an increase in intelligence suggesting that drivers were illegally plying for hire and unlicensed vehicles were operating in Northampton town centre. Special Constables, Safer Roads Team officers and WNC staff acted as customers, approached private hire vehicles parked in areas around the town and asked the drivers if they were free. If they said they were, and the driver moved off after being asked to drive to a location outside the town, the licensing officers identified themselves. Private hire vehicles can only pick up passengers if the journey has been booked through a private hire operator. Drivers are acting illegally if they carry out the journey without it being pre-booked. All private hire drivers are trained when they first apply for a licence about the difference between hackney carriages which can lawfully be flagged down and private hire vehicles which must only carry out pre-booked fares. “Working in partnership with Northamptonshire Police we were able to identify drivers who were operating in an illegal matter. The Council takes these matters seriously and all those drivers caught will now face a review of their licence to consider the most appropriate course of action that should be taken against their private hire drivers licence.” WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services “Working alongside our Northamptonshire Safer Roads Alliance partners, our priority remains to keep people safe when using our roads. Private hire vehicles must be pre-booked and cannot pick up fares as this not only breaches their licence conditions but also invalidates their insurance. “As part of the operation we not only checked that private hire drivers were following all laws and regulations when carrying members of the public but also that they had the correct documentation to reduce the risk to vulnerable people who may fall prey to unlicensed drivers in the night-time economy.” PC Maureen Allsopp-Clarke of Northamptonshire Police Safer Roads Team Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Purchase of iconic Corn Exchange completed, paving the way for Greyfriars regeneration
October 24, 2024
Purchase of iconic Corn Exchange completed, paving the way for Greyfriars regeneration
24 October 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) completed the successful purchase of the Corn Exchange in Northampton, on Wednesday 23 October, marking a key milestone in its ambitious plans to revitalise Northampton town centre and transform the Greyfriars area. The Corn Exchange, a historic building that has stood empty for over a decade, will soon be brought back to life as part of a wider vision for a vibrant, multi-generational neighbourhood. Once a-thriving hub for cinema and entertainment before becoming the Chicago Rock Café, the Corn Exchange has long been a beloved part of the town’s history. The Council’s acquisition of the building signals a significant step forward in the transformation of Greyfriars, where WNC plans to create a new, connected neighbourhood featuring green spaces, entertainment areas, and improved transport routes. The Corn Exchange will serve as the cultural anchor of the Greyfriars redevelopment, reimagined as a venue for entertainment, leisure, and performance that will attract both daytime and evening visitors. "The Corn Exchange has been a part of Northampton’s rich heritage, and we are thrilled to take ownership of this iconic building as part of our broader vision for Greyfriars. By restoring it to its roots as a place for entertainment, we are safeguarding its history while creating new opportunities for cultural and economic growth. This project is not just about redeveloping a site—it’s about reconnecting our community with its town centre, breathing new life into a cherished space, and building a future that is vibrant and inclusive for all." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC The site will be an integral part of the Greyfriars masterplan, which has been developed through extensive public consultation with local residents and businesses. The 25-acre area is set to transform into a dynamic and inclusive neighbourhood, integrating the historic building into a space designed for the future. The Council is working closely with the English Cities Fund—a partnership between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse—to take the project to the next level of detail. WNC will now work with ECF to further evolve the masterplan, investigate the best uses for the building and explore funding opportunities for the delivery of the scheme. Together, the partnership will present an updated masterplan to the public and Council in spring next year for consideration and consultation. Following the public consultation, and approval from Council, the project will then begin the necessary next steps such as planning, to bring this scheme forward. The regeneration of the Corn Exchange also promises to improve connectivity within Northampton. Once isolated, the Greyfriars area will be seamlessly linked to the town centre, creating a direct route between the newly transformed Market Square and the Greyfriars site. This development will create a cohesive and accessible town centre, positioning the Corn Exchange as a focal point for both the local community and Northampton’s broader cultural landscape. WNC is committed to safeguarding the heritage of the Corn Exchange while ensuring it becomes a vibrant and active part of Northampton’s future. Further details on the timeline and development plans for the Corn Exchange and the wider Greyfriars area will be announced in the coming months. To keep up to date with regeneration across Northampton visit www.wearenorthampton.com Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Hundreds of West Northants students enjoy annual Young Citizens event
October 24, 2024
Hundreds of West Northants students enjoy annual Young Citizens event
24 October 2024 Primary school students from across West Northamptonshire have taken part in this year’s Young Citizen’s Scheme organised by the West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership. The event, held over two days, saw participation from nearly 700 Year 6 pupils who learned about key topics such as personal safety, fire and water safety, anti-social behaviour, and much more with the aims of proactively engaging children on important community safety issues and empowering them to become responsible and aware citizens. The interactive sessions, which included a mix of workshops, drama performances, and group presentations, covered a variety of subjects crucial for young people’s safety and wellbeing including Online Safety and Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE), crime prevention, fire safety, knife crime and gang crime, hate crime, rail safety, and substance misuse. The event’s engaging approach focused on leaving students with clear, lasting safety messages, helping them develop good safety skills, a better understanding of emergency services, and a considerate approach to others. "This event is a great example of the proactive work we are doing to ensure young people in West Northamptonshire have the knowledge and skills to stay safe and be responsible members of the community. The partnerships and dedication of everyone involved have created an experience that will have a lasting impact on these young students." Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at West Northamptonshire Council During lunch, Rushden Academy delivered their powerful play, "Add Me", performed by Year 11 students, which focused on the importance of staying safe online. One of the standout workshops on hate crime was delivered by the West Northamptonshire Youth Forum, in partnership with Northants Police. This workshop, developed by Youth Forum members, centred on discrimination and was inspired by their recent social media takeover day in August. “Thank you to the West Northamptonshire Youth Forum for your dedication and partnership in delivering this important hate crime workshop. Your efforts in raising awareness make a real difference in creating a safer and more inclusive community.” Chief Inspector Kim Jackson from Northamptonshire police The event is proudly supported by the Northamptonshire Serious Violence Prevention Partnership (NSVPP), as it aligns with the partnership's strategic goals of fostering awareness among young people. By promoting education and early intervention, the event contributes to the long-term vision of the Partnership, preventing serious violence and building safer communities for future generations. For more information on the Young Citizens event and the work of the West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership, please visit the Council's website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Find Remembrance events taking place across West Northants
October 22, 2024
Find Remembrance events taking place across West Northants
Northampton’s Remembrance event will take place on Sunday 10 November . The parade is set to start from the Market Square at 9.30am, then follow a route down The Drapery pausing for the Service of Remembrance at All Saints' Church at 10am. The service will include hymns and prayers, along with a collection for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal. Following the service, a wreath-laying ceremony will take place from 11am in the Town and County War Memorial garden behind the church on Wood Hill, with the playing of the Last Post and a two-minute silence observed at 11am. The memorial garden will remain open for the public to lay wreaths and pay their respects. At 11.45am the parade will re-assemble to march via Mercers Row, George Row and St Giles Square, past the Guildhall, to salute the Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, James Saunders Watson Esq and the Mayor of Northampton, before ending on Derngate. Find out more on the Northampton Town Council website or the Northampton Royal British Legion website.
Gritting fleet geared up for the winter months
October 23, 2024
Gritting fleet geared up for the winter months
23 October 2024 West Northamptonshire's fleet of gritters are being deployed this week to prepare roads for winter, as we enter the colder months. With temperatures across the area expected to drop towards the end of October, precautionary gritting has already begun. West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) highways partner Kier Transportation, which is part of Kier Group, is set to treat over 1,100 km of roads — equivalent to driving from West Northamptonshire to Venice. The Council has over 5,500 tonnes of salt stockpiled for use on roads and footpaths throughout the winter, with over 880 grit bins ready for use. Proactive steps have been taken to ensure roads remain safe during the winter months, with a fleet of 12 gritters on standby, ready to deploy as needed. “In partnership with Kier, we have taken the necessary steps to ensure our roads remain safe for our communities as we head into the winter months. “With colder weather approaching, this increases the potential for potholes and other defects. We will continue to work closely with Kier to resolve issues as quickly as possible and encourage all residents to report any road defects through our website, providing as much information as possible.” Cllr Phil Larratt, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport WNC is targeted in its approach – and has designed routes based on high-quality weather forecasting and real-time temperature readings, through weather stations and sensors along West Northamptonshire’s roads. “Preparing for winter is a year-round responsibility, and we are in a good position to ensure road conditions are kept safe. We have mobilised our gritting fleet and have crews on standby 24/7 during the winter period, allowing us to respond quickly to any changing weather conditions. “Once a road has received a gritting treatment, the salt requires activation from the movement of vehicles – so we urge drivers to continue to take extra care and stay vigilant.” Edith Shah, general manager at Kier Transportation Through route-based forecasting, roads will be treated if the temperatures are forecasted to drop below 0.5C. As stocks run low, people can also report bins that need refilling . Find out more about the precautionary and adverse gritting routes and other useful winter service information. LINK: report any road defects through our website Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Fire Service called to boat fire at Northampton Marina
October 24, 2024
Fire Service called to boat fire at Northampton Marina
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of a fire at the marina near Victoria Promenade in Northampton, shortly after 5am on Tuesday October 22. On arrival crews discovered a narrow boat that was well alight, and immediately identified nearby boats that the fire could potentially spread to. Electricity was isolated to the marina, and approximately 20 residents were evacuated to an office building at the Marina as a precaution. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used water jets to bring the fire under control and stop it from spreading to any neighbouring boats. Smoke did enter two neighbouring boats, but firefighters used fans to clear the smoke away. The occupants of the boat, and a dog, have been accounted for. Crews helped to treat one woman suffering from smoke inhalation, who was left in the care of EMAS paramedics. The narrow boat involved in the fire has been destroyed and has now sunk. Two adjacent boats sustained some light smoke damage. At the height of the incident, four fire engines were on scene. Crews liaised with the owners of the site, the Environment Agency, throughout – and residents who were evacuated were able to return to their boats later in the morning.
Celebrating International Control Room Week (October 21-27)
October 24, 2024
Celebrating International Control Room Week (October 21-27)
This International Control Room Week (October 21-27), Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is celebrating our Control Room staff and recognising their hard work responding to emergency calls. Our Control Room has 18 members of staff that are based at the Fire Control Room next to Daventry Fire Station. Headed by Fire Control Station Commander Hayleigh Marks Talabis, there are four for each of the four Watches – Red, Green, Blue and White. Hayleigh has been in the role for just under year after a decade working in the control room herself. She said: “In Control, we are the first and last people to deal with an incident. We are the first point of contact with the public, and throughout we log data, liaise with other emergency services and departments, as well as our staff on the ground.” When receiving a 999 call from a member of the public, one of the members of the Watch on duty will allocate appliances, officers and crews from more than 130 different incident types ranging from house fires to road traffic collisions, animal rescues and flooding. They will also gather information from the person who has called up and offer any lifesaving advice and guidance, all while remaining calm for those who may be in distress. Hayleigh also spoke of the speed in which initial calls are dealt with, saying: “We will pick up the phone to all kinds of incidents, decide on the incident type, offer survival guidance and mobilise the resources all within between 60 and 90 seconds. Sometimes callers are in situations of distress and high emotion, which can make it difficult to obtain accurate locations and details, but we will always get there.” As well as dealing with emergency calls, the Control Room team assist departments out of hours, will complete administrative work for the Service and will also occasionally take calls from other parts of the country. The Control Room team in Northamptonshire partners with Warwickshire so that one acts as back-up for the other if they have an overflow of calls. During the recent period of flooding, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service was very busy attending calls all over the county. The Control Room took more than 200 weather-related calls during this time and organised 80 call outs to people needing help. Reflecting on the impact the recent floods had on the control room, Hayleigh said: “Periods of high-volume calls like we had during the flooding push our resources to the limit, but my staff continued to work just as hard as they always have. They worked through breaks and overtime to continue helping people. “I was incredibly proud of them all. They carried on and took care of people and incidents as they always would, despite being stretched.”
Thousands turn out to celebrate Northampton Market Square grand reopening
October 22, 2024
Thousands turn out to celebrate Northampton Market Square grand reopening
22 October 2024 The grand reopening of Northampton’s newly revitalised Market Square was a resounding success with an estimated 10,000 residents and visitors coming together over the weekend to celebrate the transformation of the historic community space. Held on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October, the event was packed with family-friendly activities, live performances, and cultural displays, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. The celebration was made possible thanks to a combined £65,000 from the event’s proud sponsors and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). From live music from local talent on the Main Stage including BBC Introducing and Northampton Music Festival plus headline performances from ABBA tribute band The Magic of ABBA and Britain’s Got Talent finalists Northants Sings Out, to circus workshops, balloon makers, and face painting in the Northampton Town Centre BID Family Zone, the celebrations brought the community together in a vibrant atmosphere. The Food and Drinks Zone was a particular highlight, with visitors enjoying a wide range of delicious local food and beverages from Northampton’s finest suppliers. Market traders were also on hand, showcasing their fresh produce, handmade crafts, and expert services, giving attendees the perfect opportunity to shop local and support small businesses. The event also featured a Discovery Zone, where attendees could explore Northampton’s rich history through heritage displays, models of the Market Square’s new water feature, and even a chance to take part in an archaeological dig led by Northampton Museum and Art Gallery. Visitors were able to immerse themselves in the town’s history while enjoying a film showcasing the rich heritage of the Market Square created by the Northampton Film Festival in partnership with Northampton Town Council. The dbfb Interactive Sports Zone offered an exciting range of interactive activities that celebrated West Northamptonshire’s sporting excellence, including the Saints Rugby Team with their trophy and a women and girls’ rugby activity ahead of next year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup. Attendees had the chance to get active and take part in hands-on experiences, including cycling with British Cycling, joining a Martial Arts class, and participating in various fun competitions. View photos from the event on the WNC website. "We were absolutely thrilled with the turnout for the grand reopening of Northampton’s Market Square. It was fantastic to see so many people come together to celebrate, enjoy the activities, and support local businesses while experiencing the revitalised space – particularly the new water fountain! This event really captured the spirit of our community and it’s been brilliant to see how the new square is already attracting increased footfall to the town centre. “The Market Square is just one of the major projects we’re working on to regenerate Northampton town centre, and we look forward to building upon this to benefit our wider towns across West Northamptonshire helping to create a vibrant and welcoming area for residents, businesses, and visitors.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture, and Leisure at WNC With its modern amenities, beautiful new seating, and interactive water feature, the refreshed Market Square is set to become the beating heart of Northampton’s town centre, providing a central space for markets, community events, and social gatherings moving forward. View the full list of services available on the WNC website . “We in the Artisan Collective pod had a fantastic weekend. There were lots of new people who decided to venture out to the new market and said they will be returning as their new place for cheese and all things local. Despite the weather [on Sunday] we had a brilliant weekend – it’s definitely an amazing event space!” Steve Reid, owner of the Northampton Cheese Company located on Northampton Market Square “Tiptoe Ventures is thrilled to announce its successful grand opening in Market Square, Northampton. The event attracted a vibrant crowd, bringing a refreshing variety of experiences and excitement to the square. "Tiptoe Ventures aims to enhance the local community by offering a unique mix of products and services that cater to diverse interests. From artisanal goods to innovative workshops, the new venture promises to be a hub of creativity and collaboration. "We are excited to be part of the Market Square community. Our goal is to create a space where people can come together, explore new ideas, and enjoy what Northampton has to offer." Frank Beckley, Founder of Tiptoe Ventures located on Northampton Market Square, said: The Council extends its gratitude to all the partners, businesses, and sponsors, including Veolia, ZONE Developments, Northampton BID, Northampton Town Council, SEGRO, Evolve, dbfb Communications, Danaher & Walsh Civil Engineering, Billing Aquadrome, CS2, Stageright and Chelsea Hire who played a crucial role in making the weekend’s celebrations such a huge success. As part of the ongoing efforts to enhance future events and the use of the space, West Northamptonshire Council is inviting attendees to share their feedback via the post-event survey. Your views will help shape the continued success of Northampton’s Market Square. To participate, please visit the WNC website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Find Remembrance events taking place across West Northamptonshire
October 22, 2024
Find Remembrance events taking place across West Northamptonshire
Daventry Town Council and the Royal British Legion invite the public to join them on Sunday 10 November for the annual Remembrance Day Parade and Service. The parade will step off at around 10:30am from outside Argos on Daventry High Street (60-66 High St, Daventry NN11 4HU). The parade will process along the High Street to the War Memorial via Abbey Street. Members of the public are invited to gather on the path opposite the War Memorial for a short service to include Roll of Honour, wreath-laying, the Last Post and 2-minute silence. The parade will then march to Holy Cross Church for a Remembrance Day service at 11:30am. There will also be a short service held on Armistice Day, Monday 11 November at 11am by the brick gazebo at the top of Sheaf Street, outside the Post Office. More information, including a service sheet for the event can found on the Daventry Town Council website.
Six matches to take place in West Northants as Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 match schedule confirmed
October 22, 2024
Six matches to take place in West Northants as Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 match schedule confirmed
22 October 2024 World Rugby has announced that six matches will take place at the cinch Stadium at Franklins Gardens in Northampton as the match schedule for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 is revealed, setting the stage for six weekends of compelling competition in what promises to be the largest celebration of women’s rugby. Brazil, who became the first team from South America to qualify for a Women’s Rugby World Cup earlier this year, will make their tournament debut against South Africa at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton on Sunday, 24 August 2025. The Pool stage matches at Franklin’s Gardens will also include: Sunday 24 August: Ireland v Japan (kick-off 12 noon) Sunday 24 August: South Africa v Brazil (kick-off 2.45pm) Saturday 30 August: England v Samoa (kick-off 5pm) Sunday 31 August: Ireland v Spain (kick-off 12 noon) Sunday 7 September: Italy v Brazil (kick-off 2pm) Sunday 7 September: France v South Africa (kick-off 4.45pm) The match schedule has been developed with team and fan experience at heart, with exciting matchups in each of the eight host locations, family friendly kick-off times and optimised team travel. Aligned with World Rugby standards, each team will also benefit from a minimum of six rest days between pool matches enabling the world’s top teams to prepare and perform at their best. View the full match schedule on the World Rugby website . "We are incredibly excited to be hosting the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 here in West Northamptonshire and to see six matches take place at Northampton’s Franklin's Gardens Stadium including four of the world’s top 10 ranking teams!” This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our area on the global stage, celebrate the excellence of women’s rugby, and welcome fans from around the world. Franklin's Gardens is an iconic venue, and we’re looking forward to seeing it filled with energy and excitement as we become a key part of this historic tournament. Hosting these matches will not only promote rugby and women’s sport but also provide a significant boost to our local economy, and we can’t wait to be a part of the action." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council Five double header fixtures will take place during the pool stages, generating a festival atmosphere in the host locations and creating a day-out for families and local communities. With child prices available at all matches including the opening and knock-out matches and a vast majority of kick-off times in the afternoon, Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 promises to be the family event of the year inspiring the next generation of players in England. The pool stage will culminate in a huge weekend of matches across four venues, with the two best teams on competition points in each pool qualifying for the quarter-finals and the knockout phase. “The confirmation of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 match schedule brings a wave of excitement as fans in the host nation and around the globe can now mark their calendars for this era-defining tournament. With thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments guaranteed across the length and breadth of the country, the stage is set for the world’s top teams to showcase the very best of women’s rugby. Whether you’re a rugby fan or a newcomer, join us and be part of this unstoppable energy and historic moment!” Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Managing Director, Sarah Massey With 95 per cent of the population in England within two hours of a match venue, fans will have an unprecedented opportunity to see rugby’s biggest stars in action, while host cities are getting ready to welcome international travelling fans with iconic and vibrant local experiences. With excitement building, fans will have the opportunity to apply for tickets for all matches from 11am (GMT) on Tuesday 5 November until 11am (GMT) on Tuesday 19 November. Ballots will be used for any price categories which are oversubscribed. Fans can register to be the first to hear about ticket news here. Prior to the two-week ticket application phase, Worldwide Partner Mastercard is offering its cardholders access to a 48-hour priority sale for all matches from 11am (GMT+1) today until 11am (GMT+1) on Thursday 24 October at tickets.rugbyworldcup.com. Only Mastercard payments will be accepted during this priority window. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Brackley to Northampton interim bus service improvements
October 21, 2024
Brackley to Northampton interim bus service improvements
21 October 2024 The bus service between Brackley and Northampton is set to be improved by increasing the frequency and stops to better service local communities along the route. The interim service that will provide new journey opportunities to Brackley, Hunsbury Meadows and Syresham, will go live on Monday, 4 November. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is working with Stagecoach Midlands who will be delivering the service, and the improvements are being funded by the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP+) fund. In 2025 there are plans to upgrade the 88 bus service with financial support from Silverstone Park. This will provide faster and more frequent journeys between Brackley, Silverstone, Towcester and Northampton, and the links to Hunsbury Meadows and Syresham will be maintained on the 87 and 88 respectively. “We are pleased to be working in partnership with Stagecoach to introduce this interim service that the local community has requested. We hope that this will provide more opportunity for people to travel around our area for both work and leisure. “This service is one of many that have been introduced and enhanced this year and with thanks to funding from the Department for Transport’s BSIP fund we are looking to improve services further by increasing journeys and making them more accessible for our rural and urban communities.” Cllr Phil Larratt, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport "This is a further example of how Stagecoach and West Northamptonshire Council have been working in partnership to deliver for the communities that we serve. We are excited to bring these improvements and new journey opportunities to the South-West of the county and are looking forward to welcoming more customers from Brackley, Syresham, Towcester, Hunsbury Meadows and Pineham Village on board." Mark Whitelocks, Managing Director of Stagecoach Midlands The Council is also exploring options for a service linking Brackley to Buckingham via Evenley with Buckinghamshire Council, with the aim to have a service in place in Spring 2025. More information on this will be available early next year. “Buses are an affordable and sustainable travel option and it’s fantastic to see that passengers across West Northamptonshire will benefit from more frequent buses between Brackley and Northampton. “Our Buses Bill will help West Northamptonshire Council give passengers modern, clean and efficient services they can truly rely on.” Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood Find out more via the Stagecoach Website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Reminder to celebrate your West Northants’ inspiring male role models
October 21, 2024
Reminder to celebrate your West Northants’ inspiring male role models
21 October 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is reminding residents to submit their nominations for the West Northamptonshire Male Role Model Awards 2024 before the deadline on Wednesday, 30 October. The awards aim to recognise and celebrate the men and boys who have made significant contributions to their communities, workplaces, and the lives of others. These awards are part of WNC’s initiative to raise awareness around men’s wellbeing and highlight those who serve as a positive force in their communities. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, outstanding achievements, or simply by being a source of inspiration, WNC wants to hear about the men who are making a difference. 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. Submit your nomination on the WNC website. "We know that many men across West Northamptonshire are making a difference, often without recognition. These awards give us an opportunity to celebrate their efforts, highlight the importance of men’s wellbeing, and share their inspirational stories. “If you know someone who deserves to be recognised, please submit your nomination today." Last year’s Special Recognition Award winner Tom Higginson, said: “Last year I had the huge privilege of being given a special recognition award for the help and support that I have given to the Afghan community that arrived in Flore in late summer 2021." Cllr David Smith, WNC's Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities “I did what I did because I cared deeply about them and wanted to help ensure they had the best possible start to their new life in the UK. It was lots of small things that made the difference such as providing new suits for some of the men for interviews and letting them cook traditional food at home. It was a real honour to receive the award particularly as I received it with two of our Afghan guests present on the night. It was for them as much as me.” Tom Higginson, last year’s Special Recognition Award winner Nominations close on Wednesday, 23 October, and finalists will be honoured at an awards ceremony on Thursday, 21 November at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery, coinciding with International Men's Day 2024. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
New development sites opened up thanks to more Government funding
October 21, 2024
New development sites opened up thanks to more Government funding
21 October 2024 The former bus depot in St James West Northamptonshire Council has been awarded a total of almost £2.6m from the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund. The funding will help bring several derelict sites across the area back into use, as part of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s One Public Estate programme. A former bus depot in St James, Northampton, will benefit from a £1,368,000 grant which will help remedy ground contamination and asbestos at the site which has been vacant for a decade. There will also be further work on the site to prepare it for a residential-led scheme, creating much needed housing in that area of town. Preparation at the former University of Northampton Avenue Campus site – including the construction of roads in the site and utility upgrades – will be possible thanks to a £1,031,500 award. This will also allow residential development. And the former Ecton Brook Care Home site will be demolished in preparation for a new affordable housing scheme, thanks to a £200,000 grant. “This funding recognises the potential of these sites and our prudent approach in buying them, and we’re grateful to the Government for this valuable contribution. “Finding areas for new housing can be challenging and brownfield sites are ultimately the most appropriate but salvaging them is often difficult due to the cost. “These three sites will provide in the region of 250 new homes for our residents, as part of our drive to meet growing residential demand.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
West Northants leisure centre nominated for Site of the Year
October 21, 2024
West Northants leisure centre nominated for Site of the Year
21 October 2024 Moulton Leisure Centre has been nominated for Site of the Year in Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions Awards. The award acknowledges the high standard of facilities and day-to-day colleague support provided to the athletes on the Sporting Champions scheme. Everyone Active runs more than 230 leisure and cultural centres across the country, including Daventry Leisure Centre and Moulton Leisure Centre, in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council. In addition, Daventry cheerleader Jemma Davies has been nominated for two prestigious awards including Regional Champion of the Year (East) and Social Media Champion of the Year. Jemma, 31, trains at Daventry Leisure Centre and won World Championship silver with Team England earlier this year. She has also been selected to compete at next year’s World Championships in Florida. "We are incredibly proud that Moulton Leisure Centre has been nominated for Site of the Year at the Sporting Champions Awards. West Northamptonshire is a place of sporting excellence, and high-quality leisure facilities like Moulton and Daventry play a crucial role in supporting not just our elite athletes, but the health and wellbeing of the entire community. A huge well done to Jemma and all the Sporting Champions for their nominations and wonderful achievements too!” Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture, and Leisure at WNC The awards ceremony is due to be held at Porchester Hall in Bayswater, London on Wednesday, October 30. The event will be hosted by Great Britain’s double world 110m hurdles champion and former world record holder Colin Jackson. The company’s Sporting Champions scheme is a sports talent development programme which supports 1,400 athletes. Now in its eighth year, the initiative has helped thousands of athletes to achieve their sporting potential by providing free access to Everyone Active’s leisure facilities nationwide. Sporting Champions athletes won an incredible 23 medals at this year’s Olympics and Paralympics – nine gold, six silver and eight bronze – while 14 athletes competed at their first Olympics or Paralympics in Paris. Award winners will include those who have had career successes or who have engaged with the Sporting Champions scheme and their local Everyone Active centre. Everyone Active will also celebrate those who have helped to inspire other up-and-coming sportsmen and women. The awards ceremony will be preceded by a mentoring workshop, led by the scheme’s team of Elite athletes. Maisie Summers-Newton – who trains at Moulton Leisure Centre – Richard Kilty and Lauren Steadman starred on the Paris 2024 stage, and they will be joined by Olympians Lutalo Muhammad and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey to share their insights and experiences and help guide the Sporting Champions athletes in their own careers. “We are really looking forward to celebrating the fantastic achievements of all the Sporting Champions athletes at Porchester Hall, including Jemma. “The scheme has been very successful in providing exceptional support to emerging talent and we are delighted to be showcasing this. “It’s fantastic to see how the scheme has expanded over the years, now providing more than 1,400 athletes nationwide with access to top-quality training facilities and support. “As a leisure provider working in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council, we feel it is important to cater for all sections of the community, and we hope to continue making a real difference to our athletes’ success.” Jamie Brightwell, Everyone Active’s contract manager Find out more about the Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme , or follow @easportingchamps on Instagram. For further information visit Everyone Active . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Crews deal with large industrial fire in Corby
October 19, 2024
Crews deal with large industrial fire in Corby
UPDATE AS OF 13.00 ON 18/10/2024 Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service was called shortly after midnight today (October 18) to reports of a fire at an industrial premises on Geddington Road in Corby. On arrival crews discovered a large fire in a warehouse on the site and Northamptonshire Police closed the road both ways to ensure public safety. Firefighters used aerial appliances and hose reel jets to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further. They also monitored a number of gas canisters in the building to prevent further risk. National Grid are in attendance and have isolated electricity to the site, which is expected to remain in place until further notice. Northamptonshire Police are speaking to affected businesses to provide updates and any assistance if required. Crews will now remain at the scene to monitor hotspot fires and dampen down. Geddington Road and Ore Lane have now both been reopened to allow access residents and other businesses. We would like to thank nearby residents and businesses for their ongoing understanding and patience while we deal with this incident.
Official opening of an active travel route to encourage walking and cycling in Northampton
October 18, 2024
Official opening of an active travel route to encourage walking and cycling in Northampton
18 October 2024 A scheme that offers more than a kilometre of traffic-free routes for use by walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users in the south of Northampton Town Centre has officially opened. The 1,300-metre route provides an accessible path through Delapré Park to link Far Cotton with Brackmills and offers people the chance to use more sustainable methods of travel and a better connection to local amenities. Funded by Active Travel England, the Delapre Active Travel route will encourage walking, wheeling, and cycling whilst providing a missing link between these areas and forms part of the Northampton Active Quarter. As part of the project a bike shelter has been installed, general hedge maintenance has been carried out to improve the appearance and the drainage system has been redirected to reduce the risk of flooding. Wayfinding signage and seating will be installed soon. "It's fantastic that the works are now finished, and this accessible route is open for everyone to use and enjoy for work and leisure. The project, delivered by our Highways partner Kier Transportation and funded by Active Travel England, has been made possible through strong collaboration with local organisations and the community. This new route will improve access to local amenities, reduce carbon emissions, and encourage more people to get active.” Cllr Phil Larratt, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport This comes as work begins next week on the first phase of the Abington Active Travel scheme which aims to improve connectivity and accessibility in the Abington Park area, joining Rushmere Road to Wellingborough Road. “This project has been a brilliant example of the University, local community, Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust, and the Council working together to improve our parks. As part of the University’s research, residents could raise concerns about the accessibility of the footpaths at Delapré Park. The Council and the Trust used this evidence in their grant application to Active Travel England, which has now resulted in the new paths being installed, alongside wayfinding and seating. “We will continue to evaluate the impact of the new footpaths until June 2025 so residents will have the opportunity to share their feedback from February that year, allowing them time to experience the new footpaths.” Dr Declan Ryan, from University of Northampton “These new routes are transformative for the community, offering not only a beautiful and accessible connection through Delapré Park but also opening up vital links between Far Cotton and Brackmills. By encouraging walking, cycling, and wheeling, we’re improving access to local employment, education, and green spaces while supporting healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. This project is about much more than just infrastructure—it’s about enhancing opportunities for everyone to engage with their environment, connect with the wider community, and thrive." Richard Clinton, Chief Executive of Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Views being sought on parking and anti-social behaviour at Northampton Racecourse
October 16, 2024
Views being sought on parking and anti-social behaviour at Northampton Racecourse
16 October 2024 People are being encouraged to give their views on parking and anti-social behaviour at Northampton Racecourse to help West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) put new plans in place to address the issues. The Council is seeking information from residents as it considers a number of proposals to address ongoing issues at the Racecourse car park, which includes instances of anti-social and nuisance behaviour and parking being taken up by people who are not visiting the site. The Racecourse, which is about a mile from the town centre, is a popular local sport and community destination, boasting a number of sports pitches (including changing facilities) and playgrounds. WNC is seeking residents and businesses to give their feedback on a number of options they are exploring to address the issues at the Racecourse, including: The possibility of introducing a residents parking scheme for local households and their visitors to help better manage and ease parking pressure and demand in and around the Racecourse Potentially introducing a car park charging structure for both daytime, evening, and night-time use – a short stay car park from 8am to 6pm and available for overnight parking at a charge. It is hoped the proposals would enable those who visit the park for recreational use enough time to do their activities and allow nearby residents overnight parking whilst also dissuading those currently using the car park for other unrelated purposes – helping to free up parking for people visiting local businesses. Introducing more CCTV cameras to help deter anti-social behaviour at the park. As a result of the Council’s 2023/24 budget consultation, car parking charges were not introduced at The Racecourse, however it was indicated this would be reviewed in the future as the Council progressed work with residents to address issues at the site. People can give their views on the current Racecourse issues by completing a short survey on the Council’s website. Should feedback generally support a residents’ parking scheme, further consultation would take place with residents to determine how it might operate. “Northampton Racecourse is a popular recreational space enjoyed by many residents but we are aware of ongoing issues at the car park, including reports of anti-social behaviour and people using it for other reasons than to visit the park. “We are looking at a number of ways that could help address this, including the possibility of introducing new parking charge structure to deter people who aren’t local or using the Racecourse from parking there. It’s also clear that we need to resolve parking issues for people living nearby and we’re keen to hear their thoughts on the possibility of introducing a residents parking scheme at the site. We previously looked at Racecourse parking and potential charges as part of our budget consultation two years ago, however at that time it was clear from the feedback of residents and businesses we needed the options put forward weren’t the right fit at the time. “We’ve now reviewed and developed some initial proposals which we think will address the parking and anti-social behaviour issues and we’re keen to hear from residents, local businesses, community groups on these.” Cllr Phil Larratt, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport The survey closes on 24 November and people can share their views on WNC’s Consultation Hub. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council explores workforce savings initiative
October 15, 2024
Council explores workforce savings initiative
15 October 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is currently engaging its workforce in a new savings initiative to help address its ongoing financial challenges whilst continuing to protect essential services for residents. Like many councils across the country, WNC is dealing with increasing demand for statutory services and rising operational costs, which continue to place significant pressure on its budgets for both this year and 2025/26. The Council is currently progressing a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving the efficiency of the organisation whilst continuing to reduce costs, including a focus on how teams across the council are currently structured to provide services. Within this review are potential opportunities for WNC employees to take voluntary redundancy, flexible retirement and reduction in working hours, should they wish to do so. This week staff were briefed and given further information on how to express an interest in these options, which would be progressed based on business needs to ensure the Council continues to maintain the effective delivery of services to communities. “Like other local authorities, we continue to face financial challenges due to increasing demand for statutory services, alongside rising operational and contract costs and we are exploring a range of options to address these pressures. “As part of our ongoing efforts to achieve a balanced budget, we have decided to open a process where colleagues can express an interest in options such as voluntary redundancy, flexible retirement, or reduced working hours. This is part of our wider programme, which focuses on improving the internal efficiency of operations while ensuring we continue to deliver essential services to our residents. “This is very much an exploratory process, and no decisions will be made without thorough consideration of the impact on services and the community. We are committed to protecting vital services, and this step forms part of a wider effort to manage our resources responsibly and sustainably. “Staff have been briefed on the options available and we are providing them with comprehensive guidance, information and support.” Cllr Mike Hallam, Cabinet Member for HR and Corporate Services at West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Grant scheme applications now open for community organisations to provide crisis support for residents
October 15, 2024
Grant scheme applications now open for community organisations to provide crisis support for residents
15 October 2024 Several grant schemes are now available for registered charities, not-for-profit and Voluntary Community and Social Enterprises (VCSE) organisations in West Northamptonshire, or who are prepared to operate within West Northants, to apply for funding to support vulnerable households most in need with the cost of living. Using funds from the sixth tranche of the Household Support Fund for West Northants, £955,000 has been allocated for grant funding to support those in financial hardship, with funding being available until the end of March 2025. To ensure funding can support as many residents as needed, three grant schemes are available for organisations to apply for. These include: £545,000 available for projects or services supporting the Food Aid Network £225,000 available for projects or services supporting vulnerable households struggling to afford energy bills and energy saving essentials. £185,000 available for projects or services supporting vulnerable households struggling to afford household and wider essentials. All applications must demonstrate they can offer services that cater for immediate needs as well as providing support that has a long-term sustainable impact. Closing date for this funding is 5pm on Wednesday 6 November 2024 . Further information and the full criteria for applications can be found on the community grants page and in the Council’s Community Funding Grants Framework . For an application form and guidance please email [email protected] . Find more information about the Household Support Fund (HSF) . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Household Support Fund to Aid Vulnerable Households in West Northamptonshire This Winter
October 10, 2024
Household Support Fund to Aid Vulnerable Households in West Northamptonshire This Winter
10 October 2024 Residents facing financial hardship will receive additional support this winter from the latest round of the Household Support Fund. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has received over £2.4 million from the Government scheme which will be distributed through a range of initiatives aimed at assisting low-income families and individuals in need, offering crucial support during the winter months and through to the end of March 2025. Around 50% of the funding will go directly to supporting 13,000 families across the region through meal vouchers, which will cover school holidays, and an application for vouchers towards winter coats for children. Additionally, more than £900,000 will be allocated to trusted voluntary and community organisations, such as community larders and organisations offering energy saving support to bolster their services and provide vital resources to those who need them most. The remaining funds will be channelled into tailored support, from debt and money advice, energy saving advice and practical energy saving measures to practical household support. "This funding will make a tangible difference to the lives of many families and individuals across West Northamptonshire during these challenging times. By working closely with our local partners and voluntary organisations, we are committed to ensuring that every pound is used to offer the most practical support possible, helping people to keep warm, well-fed, and supported through the winter. Our priority is to reach those in greatest need, including pensioners, and to provide help in ways that make the biggest impact." Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at West Northamptonshire Council The Household Support Fund is part of a wider effort to support vulnerable households as energy prices and food costs continue to rise. WNC’s distribution plan will focus on helping families and individuals access basic essentials, while also providing access to longer-term financial and practical advice. All funding is provided along with wrap around support schemes to help households to access longer-term assistance with financial wellbeing. For more information, or to find out how to access support, please visit the Household Support Fund website pages. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Sarah Hall appointed as Director of Governance and Monitoring Officer at West Northamptonshire Council
October 10, 2024
Sarah Hall appointed as Director of Governance and Monitoring Officer at West Northamptonshire Council
10 October 2024 West Northamptonshire Council announces the appointment of Sarah Hall as its new Director of Governance and Monitoring Officer. With over two decades of experience in local government, Sarah brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record in leadership, service transformation, and legal services management to the role. Sarah has previously served as Monitoring Officer at Mansfield District Council and has successfully led various high-performing teams across procurement, audit, elections, democratic services, health and safety and legal services. Sarah has been key in creating two new in-house legal teams, both at Mansfield and West Northamptonshire Council, delivering more efficient services tailored to meet local needs. Sarah’s passion for learning and development has been at the core of her work, promoting the growth of council officers and celebrating their successes. A strong advocate for equality, diversity, and inclusion, Sarah has actively worked to ensure that councils reflect the communities they serve, promoting positive change across all areas. "I am delighted to take on the Director of Governance and Monitoring Officer role at such an exciting time for West Northamptonshire Council. I look forward to building on the strong governance framework already in place and driving forward some key strategic projects, including the development of our new mortuary and crematorium, and further digitising our records and data management processes. I am passionate about creating opportunities for our teams to grow and thrive, and I am eager to continue supporting the talented officers here in achieving their ambitions." Sarah Hall "We are thrilled to have Sarah on board as our Director of Governance and Monitoring Officer. Her extensive experience, commitment to public service, and passion for developing people and services will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our governance and deliver for the people of West Northamptonshire. Sarah’s leadership will help us push forward with key projects and ensure we operate efficiently, transparently, and in the best interests of our residents." Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive of West Northamptonshire Council In addition to her new role at West Northamptonshire Council, Sarah is a Non-Executive Director of Solace and a Board Member of EMLawshare, the UK’s largest legal consortium. She is also part of the organising committee of the new Solace East Midlands Branch, further reflecting her commitment to advancing the governance and legal framework across the region. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
West Northamptonshire is joining forces with other local authorities to ask ‘why do you drop litter?’
October 11, 2024
West Northamptonshire is joining forces with other local authorities to ask ‘why do you drop litter?’
11 October 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is proud to be working with other local authorities on a campaign to reduce littering on the A5 and across our area. The campaign aims to educate road users on how they can report litter dropped from a vehicle when they witness an offence and make those thinking of littering aware they could be liable for up to a £500 fine if they choose to do so. We’re asking why people drop litter – do they not care about the countryside, do they think others should clean up their mess, or are they an idiot? Dropping litter from any vehicle, such as a car, van, lorry or scooter, is an offence and can result in a fixed penalty notice (FPN) being issued to the person dropping the litter by our Environmental Crime team. Anyone can report littering offences online or via the West Northamptonshire Council app, available to download via the app store. Signage will be displayed along the A5, as well as at petrol stations and across social media channels to highlight that littering anywhere is an offence. “Looking after our environment is the responsibility of all, and we are committed to doing what we can to keep West Northants clean and green. We’re asking people to think about why they drop litter, in the hope that they will reconsider their thoughtless actions and use bins or take their waste with them.” Cllr Rebecca Breese, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste “Dropping litter anywhere is an offence and may result in offenders receiving a fixed penalty notice of up to £500. Carelessly discarding rubbish has a negative impact on our environment and the taxpayer pays for clean-up costs. We welcome the support of our communities in bringing people who do so to justice.” Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
One week to go until the grand opening celebration of Northampton’s revitalised Market Square
October 11, 2024
One week to go until the grand opening celebration of Northampton’s revitalised Market Square
11 October 2024 The countdown is on! In just one week, Northampton will celebrate the highly anticipated grand opening of the newly revitalised Market Square on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October. Hosted by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) in partnership with Northampton Forward, Northampton BID and Northampton Town Council, this weekend event promises to bring together the community for a two-day festival of family fun, live entertainment, local food and drink, and cultural experiences. The Market Square, a historic centrepiece of Northampton, has undergone a stunning transformation to create a vibrant, accessible, and inclusive space for everyone to enjoy. The grand opening event will feature a wide range of activities, performances, and market traders, showcasing the best of Northampton’s local talent, businesses, and heritage. Highlights of the event include: Main Stage Music Zone: Enjoy live music from local and regional artists, including the ABBA tribute band The Magic of ABBA and Britain’s Got Talent finalists Northants Sings Out, alongside acts from BBC Introducing and the Northampton Music Festival. View the full line up on the WNC website . Discover Northamptonshire Zone: Explore the rich history and heritage of Northampton and Northamptonshire, find out more about our cultural and visitor attractions and meet some of our amazing community groups and charities. Learn all about archaeological digs with Northampton Museum and Art Gallery and reminisce about times gone by with photos of the market square through the years. Plan your next day out with Discover Northamptonshire plus it’s your chance to meet their new mascot the red kite. We need your creative skills to give him a name, visit the stand to have your say! Drop by the Performing Room pop up to understand how this award-winning community group delivers music-based projects to young people. Meet a therapy dog from Pets as Therapy and talk to their volunteers about how the specially trained dogs support people across the community. Plus, much more! Northampton BID Family Zone: A space packed with activities for children and families, including magic shows, circus skills workshops, face painting, balloon making, build and craft stations, colouring in activities and a treasure hunt activity sheet. They’ll also be a quiet corner with a mini library and baby changing facilities. dbfb Interactive Sports Zone: Get active with interactive displays and activities showcasing West Northamptonshire’s sporting excellence. The Sports Zone will offer guests the chance to get on a Bike with British Cycling, join a Martial Arts class, and take part in a variety of fun competitions. In addition, Everyone Active will be on hand with a rowing machine challenge and people can shoot some hoops with Northampton Basketball Club, have a kick around with Northampton Town Football Club (NTFC), and admire a supercar from Silverstone! Zone sponsor dbfb will also be on hand to showcase how the latest technology is supporting sport, health, wellbeing, and local communities, and professional boxer and former world champion Chantelle Cameron will be making a guest appearance. Sands United FC will also be there to help create awareness of baby loss and how important sport is for our mental health. Local Food and Drink Zone: Indulge in mouth-watering local street food and drinks, with a variety of vendors offering some of Northampton’s best culinary delights including pizza, American BBQ, tacos, jerk chicken, and a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. See the full offering the WNC website . "We are just one week away from unveiling Northampton’s new Market Square, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate this historic moment with our community. The grand opening event will be a fantastic opportunity to bring people together, showcase local talent, and celebrate our town’s rich heritage. “We invite everyone to join us for a weekend of fun, food, and festivities as we mark the beginning of a new chapter for Northampton Market Square with many amazing activities for everyone to enjoy." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council In addition to the entertainment, local businesses and market traders will be offering fresh, locally produced goods, handmade crafts, and a range of expert services, providing visitors with a chance to support small businesses and shop local. This event is proudly sponsored by Veolia, ZONE Developments, Northampton BID, SEGRO, Evolve, Discover Northamptonshire, dbfb Communications, Danaher & Walsh (Civil Engineering) Ltd, Billing Aquadrome, and CS2. Their support has been instrumental in making this grand celebration possible. Don’t miss out on this incredible weekend! Mark your calendars and be part of the grand opening of Northampton Market Square on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October. “Veolia is proud of Northampton and is thrilled to be sponsoring the Market Square celebrations. This amazing space at the heart of the community offers so much to the people of Northampton and Veolia is delighted to be part of it. “As well as helping residents with their waste and recycling while keeping Northampton's streets clean, Veolia supports local not-for-profit organisations, community groups, and individuals that protect and preserve resources in their local area through the Sustainability Fund. Veolia also offers local schools the opportunity to develop a small orchard of fruit trees through their Veolia School Orchards project, not only giving young people a chance to experience the benefits of working with nature but helping to improve local biodiversity. “Biodiversity is one of the pillars of ecological transformation and that's one of the reasons Veolia is distributing wildflower seeds at the Market Square event, giving everyone who visits a chance to enhance biodiversity in their local area.” Andrew Reidy, General Manager at Veolia “Only one week to go until The Music Of ABBA takes the stage! Grab your Dancing Queens and come join us for the party of the year as we bring you the hits that you know and love.” James Taylor, Magic of Abba Tribute For more information and event details, visit the Reopening of Northampton Market Square webpage. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Landmark summit with a focus on climate change
October 10, 2024
Landmark summit with a focus on climate change
10 October 2024 The first West Northamptonshire Area Climate Summit saw members of West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), Northampton Town Council (NTC) and other town and parish councils from across the area discuss the climate challenge and how they can work together to make a difference locally. The event, which is hoped to be the first of a five-year programme, held on Wednesday, 9 October at Delapré Abbey, was attended by over 50 representatives and focussed on developing and supporting initiatives to tackle climate change. Organised by WNC and NTC, with support from NCALC and other parish councils and community groups, topics discussed included: Food consumption and waste Biodiversity Communicating climate change These key topics not only centred around reducing our carbon footprint but also improving the wellbeing of our residents and creating healthier, more vibrant communities. “It was wonderful to see so many people representing their local communities and coming together to focus on the critical issue of climate change. The summit was an opportunity to find out more about sustainability initiatives, share ideas and network with others. We all have a role to play, from individual households to local authorities and this landmark event highlights our commitment as a Council to building a cleaner, healthier and more resilient future for our residents.” Cllr Rebecca Breese, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste ‘It has been mine and one of the town council’s main objectives to collaborate with WNC and parish councils in the area to see what we can do collectively to make a difference in our fight against climate change. We aim to now build on this Summit and organise further events on various topics plus a resources database to support both local councils and residents who want to work together to reduce the worst effects of climate change and build resilience to those extreme weather events that are now probably inevitable’. Cllr Andrew Stevens Chair of Northampton Town Council’s Environment Committee Find out more about Sustainability at West Northamptonshire Council . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Help shape local transport in West Northamptonshire
October 11, 2024
Help shape local transport in West Northamptonshire
11 October 2024 With less than a week left, people are being encouraged to share their views on a Local Transport Plan being developed by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC). The plan has been developed with key stakeholders and details a range of proposals for transport over the next 20 years, with the aim that by 2045 the Council will have worked with communities and partners to: Make public transport more attractive and accessible Make active travel such as walking or wheeling a first choice for short trips Reduce dependency on private cars Make our transport system safer, cleaner, and more inclusive Improve transport infrastructure and transport services to make them more resilient. "We are keen for residents, businesses, community groups, landowners, and other stakeholders to have their say on whether they agree with the proposals in the plan. “People rely on public transport for both work and leisure and it is essential that we prioritise the right things. We’re working closely with partners to ensure that our ambition for transport across the area is achieved, whilst also considering our impact on the environment.” Cllr Phil Larratt, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport The consultation runs until 17 October. People can have their say on our consultation hub. All responses will then be analysed and considered by the Council in developing the plan further. Once finalised, the Local Transport Plan will be presented to WNC’s Cabinet early 2025 with the final plan to be published following that meeting. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Fly-tipper hit with heavy fine following prosecution
October 09, 2024
Fly-tipper hit with heavy fine following prosecution
09 October 2024 A woman who continually placed her waste out for collection on days other than the authorised collection day has been ordered to pay £780. Discarding waste on the street not on an authorised collection day is classed as fly-tipping. Between April 2023 and July 2024 Miss Lavine Williams of Overstone Road, Northampton continually did so, despite numerous warnings which were ignored. This resulted in a Community Protection Notice being served in September 2023. Miss Williams continued to ignore the Notice and was issued with fixed penalty notices. As Miss Williams failed to pay or make any representation to West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), she was taken to court on 30 July 2024, and pleaded not guilty. The trial was heard on 24 September, when Miss Williams was found guilty on all four counts of breaching her Community Protection Notice. She was fined £200, ordered to pay costs of £500 and a victim surcharge of £80. Our officers work hard alongside our waste collection partners to keep our areas clean and green and when fly-tipping or littering occur, we will take action against offenders in line with our enforcement policy. “We will not tolerate fly-tipping or littering in our communities – there is no excuse for it. We are committed to taking action against offenders and tackling waste crimes, and we also welcome and value the support of residents in helping keep our areas clean and safe.” Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services To check when your authorised collection day is and how to dispose of your household waste correctly, please visit our waste and recycling webpages . People can report fly-tipping on our website, along with any information which can help to pinpoint the offenders. To find out more visit our cleaner communities page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
New strategy sets out plans to improve housing for tenants in West Northants
October 09, 2024
New strategy sets out plans to improve housing for tenants in West Northants
09 October 2024 A new Tenancy Strategy aimed at ensuring fair, sustainable, and effective management of social housing across West Northamptonshire has been approved by West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet at their meeting yesterday (8 October). The West Northamptonshire Tenancy Strategy (2024-2029) sets out clear guidelines for registered housing providers (RPs) operating within the area, ensuring that housing policies support long-term community stability and meet the growing demand for affordable housing. This strategy replaces the previous policies from the former legacy areas of Daventry, South Northamptonshire, and Northampton, and aligns with key Council objectives, such as the Corporate Plan, the Housing Strategy, and the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy. Key proposals in the strategy include the introduction of lifetime tenancies, enabling new tenants to ensure long-term housing security and encouraging stable and sustainable communities; the use of fixed-term tenancies in exceptional circumstances to limit disruption to community cohesion; and the delivery of more social rent, particularly in the development of new homes to address poverty and improve the affordability of housing. The strategy will also focus on homeless prevention and tenancy sustainment, ensuring vulnerable residents receive the necessary support needed to avoid homelessness. The strategy also outlines how the Council will work closely with RPs to make sure they meet local housing needs. via the Housing Register and through new affordable housing delivery. It will also support the Council’s wider objectives to reduce the need for temporary accommodation and alleviate homelessness while ensuring that tenants live in safe, affordable homes. "We are committed to ensuring that our residents have access to secure, affordable housing, and this new Tenancy Strategy is a key step in making that happen. “By focusing on long-term tenancies and supporting our most vulnerable residents, we are not just providing homes but also building stronger, more resilient communities. This strategy will help ensure that social housing in West Northants is used in a way that benefits both tenants and the wider community, making West Northamptonshire a better place to live for everyone." Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing The Tenancy Strategy was developed following a six-week consultation period, during which the Council engaged with private registered providers, housing tenants, private landlords, and voluntary housing organisations. 79% of respondents agreed with the key proposals in the strategy, which is designed to tackle the current housing challenges while ensuring stability for the residents of West Northamptonshire. The Council remains committed to working with registered housing providers to ensure this strategy is effectively implemented and delivers real benefits for residents. Find more information about the new Tenancy Strategy . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Get your two or three-year-olds protected with the free flu nasal spray
October 08, 2024
Get your two or three-year-olds protected with the free flu nasal spray
08 October 2024 Parents and guardians across West Northamptonshire are being urged to get their child vaccinated with the free flu nasal spray. The call from the Public Health team at West Northamptonshire Council comes as the Government prioritises flu vaccinations for all children. Toddlers, are amongst those groups who could have serious health implications from catching flu, including the need to be hospitalised. In 2023-2024 59% of children aged two to three, in West Northamptonshire, did not receive the vaccine, meaning a higher increase of children this age were at risk to catching flu. The West Northamptonshire Public Health Team are calling to parents and guardians to get their children booked in with their GP as soon as possible, to ensure they are protected against the contagious infection. “The flu vaccine for children is usually given as a quick and painless spray up the nose and will not cause your child to have the flu. As flu viruses change annually, a new nasal spray vaccine needs to be given each year to protect the child. If your child is unable to have the nasal spray, an alternative option can be offered. “More than half of children aged two and three years in West Northamptonshire were not vaccinated last year. I strongly encourage all parents and guardians to get their child/children vaccinated against the flu, it is an important vaccination that will protect them, as well as stop the spread of the illness to vulnerable family members and friends.” Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at WNC Parents will receive an invite from their child's GP inviting them to take up the opportunity of a flu vaccine. It is important to ensure you take the time to get your child vaccinate them ahead of the colder months. For further information, visit our Immunisation page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Funding provided to support Northampton job seekers back to work
October 07, 2024
Funding provided to support Northampton job seekers back to work
07 October 2024 People in Northampton who have previously been unable to work due to mental ill health are to receive support to ease them back into employment. The announcement coincides with World Mental Health Day, on Thursday, October 10, which this year is about prioritising mental health in the workplace. Workbridge, the vocational education arm of complex mental health charity St Andrew’s Healthcare, has been awarded a £60,000 grant from West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) as part of a wider initiative aimed at enhancing local skills and fostering positive change within the community. This funding, provided through central Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), will support Workbridge’s efforts to deliver a wellbeing support and essential skills programme. The scheme will empower individuals, promote skills development, and contribute to long-term community improvement in West Northamptonshire. Those who sign up for the five-week programme are supported by skilled tutors, helping them to realise their potential. They will be given the opportunity to learn new skills, understand more about resilience and gain confidence which is hoped will assist them in gaining employment. “For more than 40 years, Workbridge has been providing a bridge for people to find work. We’ve found that very often people want to work, but there can be a number of barriers, which they need to overcome first before they can do that. But our new initiative is going to work with these people, to find out what those challenges are and, working together, we’re going to help tackle them. “We're proud to help people living with mental illness, autism, learning disability or brain injury get the chance to build life, vocational and employment skills. The council’s funding will ensure we can help more people to thrive. We now have the opportunity to widen our reach and support those in our local community who need a bit of support and time for their emotional wellbeing.” Jenny Lane, Workbridge Education Manager Referrals to the Workbridge vocational programme will be made via the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Wellbeing Launchpad through Social prescription. However, self-referrals will be accepted if the person meets the criteria. “It’s great to see that support is being provided to get our job seekers, who have become ill with poor mental health, back into the work place. But, we all have a responsibility to ensure things are put in place to protect mental health at work. “Life is busy for everyone, particularly for those who work. Whatever you do for a living, a lot of people will experience some form of stress at work. But, it’s important to realise when that small amount of stress is causing emotional distress. It can feel like it has taken over and this can start to become part of a bigger problem.” Dr Inga Stewart, a consultant psychologist at St Andrew’s According to Mental Health UK, 20 per cent of employees took leave last year because of stress. Burn-out rates are on the rise and in 2022, poor mental health was the fifth most common reason given for sickness absence, accounting for 7.9 per cent of occurrences. “There’s no doubt about it, mental ill health numbers are on the up. More needs to be done to support people in the work place to prevent work-related mental health conditions, but I also think it’s ok for us to normalise saying no. “We need to protect and promote mental health at work. We should be empowering our staff and colleagues to put their mental health first, before anything else. Organisations need to be ready to recognise and respond to emotional distress. We need to have access to the right training, support and adaptations so we can look out for ourselves and those around us.” Inga added Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the new programme aims to drive economic growth by fostering a resilient workforce. “Our investment of £1.4 million in skills projects, including community organisations through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a vital step in boosting the local economy of West Northamptonshire. By equipping our workforce with essential skills and supporting innovative projects we are laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth and prosperity in our area. “This funding will not only help individuals and businesses thrive but will also strengthen the resilience and inclusivity of our entire community. We are confident that these initiatives will make a meaningful difference in enhancing people’s lives by improving local skills and providing new opportunities for local people.” Councillor Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Anyone who would like to find out more information should contact [email protected] . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council successful in defending appeal against major housing offences
October 07, 2024
Council successful in defending appeal against major housing offences
07 October 2024 West Northamptonshire Council's (WNC) Private Sector Housing Team has successfully defended an appeal in Northampton Crown Court in relation to a significant case involving unlicensed houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). The original prosecution, which took place in December 2022 at Northampton Magistrates Court, saw two defendants fined £275,000 and £35,000 respectively for breaches under the Housing Act 2004. Both defendants had appealed their sentences to the Crown Court, with the hearing taking place on 20 September 2024. Mr Recorder A Jack, who presided over the appeal, dismissed the case and upheld the Council's stance. In his judgment, he emphasised that this was a “criminal enterprise involving houses in multiple occupation” and condemned the dangerous fire safety violations involved, stating they were both 'illegal and dangerous, posing a risk to the lives of tenants and neighbours." He described the case as an “extremely serious instance of illegal enterprise.” Upon resentencing, Mr Recorder Jack increased the fines significantly, raising the original £275,000 penalty to £329,524 and the £35,000 penalty to £73,524. Costs were also awarded to the Council, and the defendants have been given one month to pay the fines. The case, which began in 2019, demanded considerable resources and collaboration, involving properties that were unlicensed and posed serious safety risks, putting tenants' health and wellbeing in direct danger. The team’s intelligence-driven enforcement strategy targeted areas where intelligence identified significant risks. This successful outcome serves as a strong reminder that West Northamptonshire Council will not hesitate to take firm action against those who operate outside the law and endanger the safety of tenants and work is ongoing to ensure the quality of all housing across West Northamptonshire meets the required standard. “This case underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents in West Northamptonshire. The outcome demonstrates that we will take firm action against those who neglect their responsibilities and put tenants at risk. “I’m incredibly proud of the Private Sector Housing Team’s dedication and their successful efforts in tackling such serious breaches. Our priority is to create safe, secure homes for all residents in our area, and we will continue to use every resource available to achieve that." Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing at WNC Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Thanks to everyone who helped during recent flooding
October 03, 2024
Thanks to everyone who helped during recent flooding
03 October 2024 Northampton Washlands Organisations involved in responding to the recent flooding across Northamptonshire are thanking everyone who stepped in to help. The county saw three times the average monthly rainfall - the highest September rainfall since records began with almost 15cm of rain compared with an average of around 6cm. Most of this fell between Saturday 21 and Thursday 26 September. As a result, residential and business properties were flooded, as were some schools and several caravan parks including Billing Aquadrome and Cogenhoe Mill Holiday Park and Yarwell Mill Caravan Park. Watch a video on this: Representatives from Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service, the Environment Agency and West and North Northamptonshire councils talk about the joint response to recent flooding in the county. “Flooding has a devastating impact on those affected – we encourage property owners and businesses to sign up for the free flood warning service which will alert them to take action. “Visit the Gov.uk website and search ‘flood’ where communities can also find out how to become more resilient, what to do before, during and after a flood and view the current Flood Warnings and river levels.” Ben Thornely, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager for the Environment Agency Following evacuation from some of these properties voluntary organisations, particularly British Red Cross, 4x4 Response, Re:ACT and Rapid Response Team, stepped in to support. “The volunteers have been amazing, helping us staff a reception centre for those who were displaced and making sure everyone was well looked after. “I would also like to thank our amazing staff and partners who worked around the clock to ensure support was available for our communities when they needed it most.” Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council “We saw an incredible amount of rainfall hit our county in a very short space of time which had a significant impact on some of our communities. “The incredible response from volunteers, staff and partners to help deal with situation was amazing and I’d like to thank everyone who helped.” Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council Organisations from across the Northamptonshire Local Resilience Forum (LRF) came together to deal with the issues. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service led the initial approach, with support from West and North Northamptonshire Councils, Northamptonshire Police, the Environment Agency and the Met Office, Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board, the East Midlands Ambulance Service, and Meadow Bay Villages which owns Billing Aquadrome. The fire service, along with Northamptonshire Search and Rescue, helped get more than 70 people across the county to safety during the worst of the weather. “Last week was an incredibly busy one for us as a Fire Service, but we worked closely with partner agencies to make sure we had sufficient resources in place to deal with a large number of flood related incidents. “I want to pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of our firefighters, fire staff and control room, as well as volunteer colleagues at Northants Search and Rescue, for their response so far. “We would encourage members of the public to stay safe and continue to follow safety advice on social media.” Area Commander Mick Berry, Head of Response for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue “The last week has shown again how well we work together in responding to this type of flooding, and I want to thank those people who have followed all the advice that’s been shared. “I would also like to thank the people who have been part of the response, including Northamptonshire Search and Rescue who have helped to keep people safe in such difficult circumstances.” Northamptonshire Police Chief Superintendent Chris Hillery Residents across Northamptonshire are urged to sign up for flood alerts . Further useful information is also available through West Northamptonshire Council’s flooding and flood risk management pages as well as on North Northamptonshire Council’s website . Further useful advice is also available on the Government website for those seeking to prepare for possible flooding , and for landowners who have watercourses running through their property . Volunteer contributions are always invaluable during a crisis and links to more details about how to help can be found below: Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Northampton Market Square grand opening event promises weekend of family fun, food and festivities
October 04, 2024
Northampton Market Square grand opening event promises weekend of family fun, food and festivities
04 October 2024 The much-anticipated grand opening event to celebrate Northampton’s revitalised Market Square will take place on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October, offering a weekend packed with family-friendly activities and live entertainment as well as opportunities to sample local food and drink, discover Northamptonshire’s rich heritage and history, and explore local businesses and traders. Hosted by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) in partnership with Northampton Forward, Northampton BID, and Northampton Town Council (NTC), this exciting event marks the transformation of the historic Market Square into a vibrant, inclusive space for the entire community to enjoy. Attendees can look forward to a range of zones, each offering something unique for all ages and making this a true celebration of Northampton’s rich heritage, culture, businesses, and local talent. Main Stage Music Zone At the heart of the event is the Main Stage, featuring an exciting lineup of local and regional artists. Highlights include headline performances from ABBA tribute band The Magic of ABBA and Britain’s Got Talent finalists Northants Sings Out, complemented by live music curated by BBC Introducing and Northampton Music Festival. This stage promises to deliver energy and entertainment throughout the weekend. Discover Northamptonshire Zone We have lots to boast about across West Northants and this exciting zone will be filled with pride of place, people and potential, set to showcase our vibrant communities, culture and heritage. Visitors can explore: Models from the Northampton Market Square’s fountain development A pop-up stall from 78 Derngate NTC Heritage Boards and Snapshots in Time The Northampton Museum and Art Gallery’s (NMAG) Handling Collection and Archaeological Dig A heritage film screening and chance to try out musical instruments with Performing Room Northampton BID Family Zone Big, bright, vibrant hours of fun in abundance for big kids and tiny tots plus their caregivers. From circus workshops to craft activities, baby changing facilities to a chill out space plus so much more. Families can enjoy: An illusions show Circus workshops Balloon makers Face painting Book corner featuring treasures from local libraries Plus lots more! Local Food and Drink Zone Food glorious food! Don't miss the ultimate feast of flavours with mouthwatering local street food and refreshing drinks. A must for all foodies, local suppliers will showcase some of the best culinary delights Northampton has to offer, including: Pizza from Pizzaroo American BBQ from the Smoke Pit Taco Truck from Tacos el pap Jerk Chicken from Fud Cuisine Drinks bar from V&B Interactive Sports Zone Get involved and be a true champion! Showcasing West Northamptonshire's iconic sporting excellence with a range of activities for all the family – keep your eyes peeled for further details soon! This event is proudly sponsored by Veolia, ZONE Developments, Northampton BID, SEGRO, Evolve, dbfb Communications, Danaher & Walsh, Billing Aquadrome, and Northampton BID. Their support has been instrumental in making this grand celebration possible. “ZONE is excited to be sponsoring the Northampton Market Square Opening event on 19 and 20 October as part of our commitment to supporting local communities and fostering vibrant environments where students and residents can thrive. “As an organisation dedicated to providing luxurious accommodation as well as valuable resources and opportunities for students, we believe that a revitalised market square enhances Northampton's offering, making it an even more appealing place to study, work, and live. We look forward to engaging with the community and celebrating the reopening alongside traders and visitors.” Neil Thakkar, Director at ZONE Developments Throughout the weekend, visitors will have the chance to explore the offerings of Northampton’s local businesses and market traders. From fresh, locally produced goods to handmade crafts, the market will be brimming with opportunities to shop local and discover unique products and expert services such as bicycle repairs, key cutting, floristry, and much more. “This event is more than just a celebration of the physical transformation of Northampton Market Square marking the completion of the first of several major regeneration works in the area - it’s a showcase of our local talent, businesses, and rich cultural heritage. “The new Market Square is a welcoming, inclusive space that will serve as the heart of our community for generations to come. We’re excited to bring together families, traders, artists, and sports enthusiasts for a weekend of fun, food, and festivities, highlighting everything Northampton has to offer. This is a true celebration of community spirit, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone across West Northamptonshire and beyond. We will continue to do everything we can to showcase West Northamptonshire as a must-visit destination and the perfect place to work, live, visit and thrive.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council Find out more about the event on the WNC website and keep an eye on WNC’s social media pages for further announcements. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Helping our residents to stop smoking with free support
October 03, 2024
Helping our residents to stop smoking with free support
03 October 2024 The start of October marks Stoptober, a national campaign which encourages people to quit smoking for good. Smoking remains the biggest behavioural cause of preventable death, with 64,000 deaths a year and quitting is one of the best things a smoker can do for their health. If you quit for 28 days, you’re five times more likely to quit for good. That is why West Northamptonshire Council will be hosting events out in the local community to encourage people across the area to join thousands of others who are committing to quitting this October. People across West Northamptonshire can access free support through the Council’s Stop Smoking Service. There is a wide-range of support including a 12-week course with sessions either on the telephone or face-face, as well additional support with e-cigarettes and nicotine replacement therapy which can be delivered straight your door. If you’d like to speak to someone about support this Stoptober join one of the drop in sessions at: Friday 4 October 9am – 4pm at Weston Favell shopping centre, outside Costa Tuesday 8 October 9am – 4pm at Grosvenor Shopping centre, outside River Island on the ground floor Thursday 10 October 9am – 4pm at Northampton General Hospital at the South Entrance outside Marks & Spencer “When you stop smoking good things can start to happen, within days or weeks you have more energy, and your senses of taste and smell improve. Not only this, but quitting could save the average smoker £2,000 per year. Quitting this autumn could ease financial pressures and you could see significant improvements to physical and mental health. “If you’ve quit before, or are looking to save money and improve your wellbeing – I’d encourage you to reach out to our stop smoking service to find out more about the free support we can offer to help you quit for good.” Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services To find out more information please visit our stop smoking page or you can get in touch with the service today on 0300 126 5700 . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Health, safety and wellbeing in the workplace an important topic at forum
October 02, 2024
Health, safety and wellbeing in the workplace an important topic at forum
02 October 2024 Business owners across West Northants came together to discuss health, safety and wellbeing within the workplace at a forum last week. The event, which took place on Friday, 27 September at The Hub, Dirft Drive in Crick, was an opportunity for new and established businesses to listen to a series of speakers and network with others. Topics covered included workplace wellbeing toolkits, diversity and inclusion and safety risks and solutions. Information was also available on services provided by WNC’s Business Development Teams including food hygiene, pest control and opportunities for co-ordinated partnerships with local authorities. Organised by West Northants Council (WNC) and Warrens of Dirft, business advice, support and funding opportunities were also on the agenda from WNC’s Inward Investment and Business Growth Team. “It was fantastic to hear that so many business owners attended the event and took the opportunity to network with others across the area. The forum provided a space to listen to industry leaders and find out more about the information and support available from the Council and its partners. We hope that people found it useful and we’re looking forward to putting on similar events in the future.” Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Celebrating the contribution of older people in our communities
October 03, 2024
Celebrating the contribution of older people in our communities
03 October 2024 Following on from the success of the Healthy Active Ageing event held in April 2024, West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Northamptonshire Sport are launching a Healthy Active Ageing Network for people across Northamptonshire. The Healthy Active Ageing Network are core group of stakeholders who have a professional role and/or interest in promoting the health and wellbeing of older people, and especially in reducing any health inequalities that they might experience. The network contributes to the shared ambition of Move Northamptonshire (A Framework For Active Lifestyles In Northamptonshire), and to the ‘Live Your Best Life’ Strategy - specifically ambition 3 ‘Opportunity to be fit, well and independent’. The launch of the network coincides with the celebration of International Day of Older People, taking place on 1 October in recognition of the contribution older people make to our local communities. WNC and the Healthy Active Ageing network will be working with Professor Sir Muir Gray to develop a local programme aimed at promoting healthy ageing in our community. Sir Muir Gray is a physician, academic, and health system innovator, who has held senior positions in the NHS, and has overseen national health screening and NHS RightCare programmes. This initiative will enable us to share national and international best practice across our local networks and coordinate our efforts to make Northamptonshire a great place to live and be active. "We all know that older people are an amazing asset to our local communities in West Northamptonshire. They often contribute their skills, experience and expertise in a variety of ways, sometimes in paid work or through volunteering, being active community members, caring for others, making and creating, and having full, active lives. We really appreciate their contribute to our communities and want to support and celebrate this." Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services WNC WNC and the Healthy Active Ageing network are encouraging older people to “Be Active - physically, cognitively, and socially" and will be inviting them to share their stories about what healthy active ageing means to them. Join us in celebrating and supporting our older population to live healthier, more active lives! For more information on how to submit your stories and future events, please follow the West Northants Council and Northamptonshire Sport social media channels and websites for more information. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Works to start this month on a scheme to promote active travel in the Abington Park area of Northampton
October 01, 2024
Works to start this month on a scheme to promote active travel in the Abington Park area of Northampton
01 October 2024 Construction works will start this month on the Abington Active Travel route to improve walking and cycling facilities in the area. Our Highways Partner Kier Transportation will start construction on Monday 21 October at the junction of the A5095 Park Avenue South / Rushmere Road / Billing Road. This construction phase comes as the Delapré Active Travel scheme , a 1,300-metre accessible route through Delapré Park to link Far Cotton with Brackmills, nears completion. The scheme will encourage walking, wheeling and cycling whilst providing a missing link between those areas and more information will follow on this soon. The Active Travel Fund is one of several funding streams set up by the Government for walking and cycling schemes, helping to promote healthy travel, reduce CO2 emissions, and grow the economy. The Abington scheme, which is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Active Travel Tranche 2, will improve connectivity and accessibility, joining Rushmere Road to Wellingborough Road. These works may cause some delays as temporary traffic management will be in place to ensure safe working conditions. Some short periods of road closures may also be necessary. This information will be communicated and engagement with local residents, schools, community groups and stakeholders will be taking place in the coming weeks, ahead of works starting. Following public consultation in 2022 and 2023 and completion of this first phase of works, plans will be being finalised in the new year for the next phase, which will improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists at the King Edward Road junction and network capacity by Abington Park. “I am pleased that work on this project to make walking and cycling journeys in the area safer and more pleasant for our residents will commence shortly. The first phase junction of the overall scheme will provide much needed pedestrian and cycle crossing facilities where none currently exist, making the junction safer for all, especially for all the children and young people attending nearby schools who regularly cross it. “We acknowledge that temporary traffic measures and road closures may cause delays for some road users and will be engaging with the local community to ensure that they are kept up to date as works progress on this first phase of the scheme.” Cllr Phil Larratt, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport “We look forward to starting works on this project, to support and encourage active travel in the region. While the works will cause some short-term disruption, we will ensure residents and road users are kept informed. The scheme will have a positive impact in the community for years to come, and we’re pleased to play our part in delivering this infrastructure on behalf of West Northamptonshire Council and supporting its vision for the future.” Peter Ingram, contract director for Kier Transportation To keep up to date on the scheme as it progresses, visit our Active Travel page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
South Midlands devolution bid on the cards
October 01, 2024
South Midlands devolution bid on the cards
01 October 2024 North and West Northamptonshire Councils have partnered with four other authorities in the South Midlands on an expression of interest to Government toward devolution. Government announced in July that devolution would be a central strand for boosting economic growth inviting local leaders to identify regional partnerships which could benefit from enhanced powers in areas such as transport, housing, skills and employment. Councils in Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes and North and West Northamptonshire have successfully worked together for many years as part of the Central Area Growth Board, more recently becoming the South Midlands Authorities (SMA). They have worked jointly on a submission to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). As well as enhanced powers, a devolution deal could also leverage in millions of pounds of future investment into the area. Following on from the expression of interest, government will produce a framework which will provide more detail on how and when devolution could become a reality and what the specific benefits could be for the SMA. “Working with our neighbours demonstrates to Government that we have the will and the means to manage greater resources more locally. “During the first three years of our two new councils, we have demonstrated time and again that we can work together for the benefit of our residents. “This latest step offers us the opportunity to extend that direct partnership link with our neighbours to the south." Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council “This is an exciting step forward on working collaboratively with neighbouring unitary councils on how we can create the conditions to bring increased prosperity to our region. “This is a very exciting time and the move towards devolution fits perfectly with our Big 50 aspirations to create a proactive, proud and prosperous area for all of our residents.” Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council Both North and West Northamptonshire Councils, along with the other four SMA authorities, have already approved the establishment of a Joint Committee governance model for the area as part of their South Midlands Authorities management of the former Local Enterprise Partnership functions. The new governance model replaces the current Central Area Growth Board and in particular its decision-making powers. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Serious Violence Prevention Partnership invests over £100,000  to launch the Sideline Project
September 30, 2024
Serious Violence Prevention Partnership invests over £100,000 to launch the Sideline Project
30 September 2024 Northamptonshire Serious Violence Prevention Partnership (NSVPP) has awarded £116,430 to Athletic Elite , a basketball coaching and development organisation, to launch the Sideline Project. The Sideline Project uses basketball and sports coaching to improve the physical and emotional wellbeing of young people across Northamptonshire. The project focuses on those young people who are identified as vulnerable to risk, delivering tailored sessions about physical health, confidence, resilience and emotional well-being. It aims to empower young people to make healthier choices, and create safe places for them to belong. The project will create six-week programmes for secondary schools in priority areas, evening basketball and mentoring sessions for students with attendance problems and/or those referred by the police. These will support young people between the ages of seven and 19. Alongside these programmes the Sideline Project will support the upskilling of basketball coaches in crime prevention. The priority areas have been identified using the data collected as part of the NSVPP Serious Violence Duty Strategy. They are: Northampton, Kettering, Wellingborough and Corby. This partnership approach ensures that primary interventions, like the Sideline project, are specifically designed to address serious violence in targeted areas. It is a part of the NSVPP’s plans to implement a public health approach to violence prevention, gaining an understanding of the causes of violence to develop evidence-based interventions which focus on both reduction and prevention. “Collaborating with Northamptonshire Police and delivering the Sideline Project allows us at Athletic Elite to provide social, emotional and physical development opportunities around the county that work towards positive futures for all. We are honoured to be able to work with the children and young people of Northamptonshire.” Andre Arissol, founder of Athletic Elite “I welcome the funding granted to Athletic Elite, who work tirelessly with young people to help them navigate life in a positive way. “We know some children have a difficult time growing up which can lead to poor decision making and a future life involved in crime. We’re working closely with colleagues such as Athletic Elite to identify those children most at risk and provide support such as the Sideline Project to help steer them away from criminal activity. “This project is part of a wider programme of work that’s taking place to tackle serious violence across the county, which includes taking robust action against those people who commit crimes as well as disrupting the activities of criminal gangs. “Support and advice for anyone who has concerns about a young person is available on our website, northants.police.uk.” Detective Superintendent Andy Glenn, who leads Northamptonshire Police’s response to serious violence Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Work to address DEFRA feedback on future air quality actions for West Northants
September 30, 2024
Work to address DEFRA feedback on future air quality actions for West Northants
30 September 2024 A plan of key actions to improve air quality across West Northamptonshire is set to progress once approval of the plans is given by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has recently submitted an updated version of the Draft Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) to DEFRA as part of our work to improve air quality within our existing Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) and to support removing two of these AQMAs where significant improvements have already been seen. It follows a review of the draft by DEFRA earlier this year which highlighted some further work, including a local technical study, that needed to be carried out ahead of publishing the final version. WNC has now completed the required work and has resubmitted the updated plan for approval. The Council gathered a wide range of feedback from residents, businesses, partners and other key stakeholders on the draft AQAP, receiving over 1,000 responses to the public consultation to help shape the approach. WNC monitors air quality in several locations across the area in line with current national guidance. This ensures that the data is reliable and can be used in making informed decisions to support improving air quality for the health and wellbeing of our residents. “We know that improving air quality is of paramount importance to those who work and live in West Northants, and although levels within our area generally fall within Government limits, we know there is work to be done to improve them as we work towards cleaner greener communities for everyone. “This feedback from DEFRA has allowed us to strengthen the AQAP and ensures that we are focusing our efforts in the best way possible in line with expectations and requirements as we work towards reducing pollution in West Northants.” Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services We will continue to keep residents and stakeholders updated on the work we are doing to monitor and manage air quality and the final AQAP will be published later this year. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Family zone will show off the magic of the Market Square
September 30, 2024
Family zone will show off the magic of the Market Square
30 September 2024 A circus workshop, balloon makers, illusionists and face painters will be entertaining families as part of the Market Square’s big opening weekend. Funded by Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID), the acts will form part of the Family Zone at the event on the weekend of 19 and 20 October. Little ones will also be able to enjoy a chill-out zone and quiet space with reading books and a fun trail to complete. “We can’t wait to welcome families back to the new look Market Square and we are thrilled to be supporting the Family Zone on opening weekend. “There will be loads of fun activities for little ones to enjoy and we would encourage families to come along and see the new space for themselves while visiting the traders and retailers around the Market Square and the wider town centre.” Mark Mullen, operations manager at Northampton BID The two-day event promises to be a vibrant display of community spirit, culture and live entertainment with ABBA tribute act The Magic of ABBA and Britain’s Got Talent 2024 finalists Northants Sings Out announced as the headline acts on the main stage. The main stage will also showcase top local talent on both days with a line-up of artists and DJs curated by BBC Introducing and Northampton Music Festival. Throughout the weekend there will be dedicated areas charting the history of the market and the wider town, a food market featuring products from local artisan suppliers and a celebration of local sporting stars. “The revitalisation of the Market Square is a huge milestone for Northampton, and this grand opening weekend reflects the heart of our community and collaboration with our partners, as well as the valued support from the BID throughout the project. “The Family Zone will offer something for everyone, making it a perfect time for families to come together and enjoy the new space, while also supporting local businesses. We’re excited to see how this transformed area will bring renewed energy to the town centre.” Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
‘Lifeline’ transport service set to expand thanks to funding
September 30, 2024
‘Lifeline’ transport service set to expand thanks to funding
Community Funding Grants 30 September 2024 A community transport service which provides a lifeline to its users is expanding its fleet thanks to funding from West Northamptonshire Council (WNC). Towcester-based Ability was awarded a £477,181 grant by West Northamptonshire Council, out of the Government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) and UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). The community transport provider has used the money to buy four new minibuses, increasing the size of its fleet to 14 vehicles and allowing the service to reach even more people and places across the West Northamptonshire area. Find out more in our video: Find out more about Ability community transport provider The not-for-profit Community Interest Company has so far taken delivery of two Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, and officially launched them at an event at the Council’s offices at The Forum in Towcester this week. The two new vehicles will soon be joined by two Mercedes Cityliners. It’s all a far cry from Ability’s humble beginnings in 2018, when Directors Lynn and Nigel Hinch raised money for a single minibus with the aim of helping to reduce isolation and loneliness for those without access to public transport, or who might otherwise struggle to get out and about. Today the organisation operates a wide range of on-demand bus services across West Northamptonshire, linking villages and towns via regular routes as well as taking people on shopping trips and outings, and even offering door-to-door transport for those who need it. Ability’s impact on the communities it serves was recently celebrated by BBC Radio Northampton, who awarded the service the Great Neighbour Award in its Make a Difference Awards 2024. I think people consider us more than a bus service. We take people from A to B of course, but it’s also about the friendships people build while they’re on those journeys. Our drivers are so friendly and patient, and they become part of the passengers’ lives. We have regular shopping trips, and the people on those trips will often get their shopping done as quickly as possible so they can catch up over a coffee afterwards! The more we have expanded, the more need for our services we’ve discovered. We give freedom to people who would otherwise feel trapped. To receive this funding is a real lifesaver for us and the communities we serve – the more support we have the more places we can reach and the more services we can provide to those who need it. Lynn Hinch, Director of Ability Ability is one of seven community transport operators to receive money from a £951,000 pot set up by West Northamptonshire Council thanks to the REPF and UKSPF funds. In Ability’s case, the majority came from REPF. Brackley Volunteer Car Scheme, Cogenhoe & Whiston Parish Council’s Village Hopper service, the Comm Minibus, Daventry Area Community Transport, Northampton Door to Door and Towcester Area Door to Door all also benefited from a share of the funds. Ability provides a fantastic service that makes a genuine difference to the lives of people right across West Northamptonshire. It’s wonderful to be able to support them and other community transport operators across the area through the REPF and UKSPF schemes, and I look forward to seeing positive difference this funding will make to our communities. Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is delivering significant economic benefits for West Northamptonshire and by using this funding to invest in essential community transport services, we are not only enhancing connectivity across our area but also ensuring that these vital services are accessible to everyone. This funding is helping to bridge gaps, reduce isolation, and provide reliable transportation options for all residents. The expansion of services like Ability demonstrates our commitment to building stronger, more connected communities, and supporting the economic growth and well-being of our area. Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & Leisure Find out more about REPF and UKSPF funding More information about Ability CIC Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Update from Fire Service regarding flooding in Northamptonshire
September 28, 2024
Update from Fire Service regarding flooding in Northamptonshire
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has continued to provide support to residents affected by flooding in the county over the last 24 hours. The Met Office issued an amber weather alert for rain from 6pm yesterday until 6am this morning (September 27). Since 8am yesterday, the Fire Service has deployed resources to eight weather related incidents. These included assisting in helping evacuate a caravan park in Yarwell, where 35 people were assisted to safety from rising flood waters at 7.30pm last night. And earlier in the day, firefighters and Swiftwater Rescue Technicians rescued two people and two dogs from a boat at Islip Mill at 10am. The Fire Service continues to work with our multi-agency partners to identify any areas of risk and ensure that appropriate resources are in place to help protect the public. A number of flood warnings and alerts remain in place across the county, and these can be viewed here: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/ Please continue to follow safety messages on social media feeds from emergency services, West and North Northamptonshire Councils, Northamptonshire Search and Rescue, Northamptonshire Police, the Met Office and the Environment Agency. We would also strongly encourage people to only travel if necessary and avoid driving into floodwater. Please follow these safety tips: Do not ignore road closure signs. Never attempt to cross or drive through floodwater if you don’t know how deep the water is – just two feet of water will float a car. Never try to swim through fast flowing water or floodwater – you may get swept away or be injured by an object in the water. Don’t assume fords are safe to cross just because the road is not closed. Always look at the river level gauge and use your common sense.
Joint agency update on flooding – September 26
September 28, 2024
Joint agency update on flooding – September 26
Agencies are continuing to support Billing Aquadrome’s management with their evacuation plan whilst it remains temporarily closed due to flooding and with further flood warnings in place. Around 28 people and 5 pets stayed at the rest centre overnight and were provided with emergency bedding, toiletries and hot food and drink and supported by community volunteers from the British Red Cross and Re:Act and WNC staff. A further 21 people and their pets left the centre last night having made arrangements to stay with family and friends. West Northamptonshire Council is assessing everyone remaining at the site for their temporary accommodation needs so that further arrangements can be made until it is safe for them to return to the site. All agencies including the Fire Service, Police and Environment Agency are continually assessing the conditions at the site and the ongoing weather however with more rainfall expected, a flood warning remains in place for the site. Having ordered the evacuation of the site, the park’s management is working with electricians, plumbers and other contractors with a view to ensuring preparations are made to move people back once the flooding risks have passed and it is safe to do so. With more heavy rain expected over the next couple of days, residents are urged to continue to take extra care, as six flood warnings and 10 flood alerts remain in place across West Northamptonshire. Water levels across the area remain very high, with flood warnings currently in place on the River Nene at Billing and Cogenhoe to Great Doddington, as well as the River Tove at Towcester and Cosgrove and low lying areas close to the River Great Ouse and River Ouzel at Newport Pagnell. People should plan ahead their journeys as well as continuing to keep an eye on flood alerts and warnings in place . In the event of an emergency where someone is in danger, they should dial 999 or 112. Further information and guidance on flooding, and how to report it, can be found here .
Joint agency flooding update – September 26
September 28, 2024
Joint agency flooding update – September 26
JOINT AGENCY UPDATE REGARDING FLOODING IN NORTHAMPTONSHIRE – 26/09/2024 20:00 Agencies across Northamptonshire are working together to ensure a joint response is in place to protect residents as more severe weather is expected overnight. The county is expected to have significant rainfall overnight with the Met Office issuing an amber warning for heavy rain across central parts of England, including Northamptonshire, this evening (September 26) until 6am tomorrow. The additional rainfall is expected to increase the risk of flooding in areas where water levels are already high. Flood warnings and flood alerts are in place across Northamptonshire, and people can continue to keep an eye on flood warnings that are currently in place here: https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/ Agencies including Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service, Northamptonshire Police, the Environment Agency and West and North Northamptonshire councils have been co-ordinating throughout the week to ensure that appropriate response plans are in place to deal with flood risks. Partners are ensuring that appropriate resources are in place with councils’ highways teams on standby to support emergency services with any flooding incidents. All people evacuated from Billing Aquadrome that were staying at the rest centre at Lings Forum Leisure Centre have now been provided with alternative temporary accommodation by West Northamptonshire Council. Residents countywide are being urged to follow safety advice, stay aware of roads that may be flooded and keep listening to alerts and advice from emergency services, the local authorities and the Environment Agency. Further advice can be found at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/browse/environment-countryside/flooding-extreme-weather Businesses who think they may be affected can follow this checklist from the Environment Agency to best prepare in the event of a flood. Residents are also urged to avoid any unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain, and should consider the following: Do not ignore road closure signs. Never attempt to cross or drive through floodwater if you don’t know how deep the water is – just two feet of water will float a car. Never try to swim through fast flowing water or floodwater – you may get swept away or be injured by an object in the water. Don’t assume fords are safe to cross just because the road is not closed. Always look at the river level gauge and use your common sense. Further information and guidance on flooding, and how to report it, can be found below. West Northamptonshire – https://www.westnorthants.gov.uk/its-emergency/report-flood North Northamptonshire – https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/flooding
Fire Service assist people and dogs during boat rescue
September 28, 2024
Fire Service assist people and dogs during boat rescue
It’s been a busy week for our crews, and yesterday we helped to rescue two people and two dogs who were in difficulty at Islip Mill. Crews were called just before 10am and on arrival found a narrowboat stuck on the mooring. Firefighters, including Swiftwater Rescue Technicians, used a raft to rescue them from the boat and help them on to dry land. Before heading back to their stations, the crew were asked for a picture with two very relieved pooches.
Partnership approach as flood management work continues to move forward
September 27, 2024
Partnership approach as flood management work continues to move forward
27 September 2024 Partners are working together to seek sustainable, long-term solutions for tackling flooding issues in West Northamptonshire as the area continues to see more frequent and severe weather events. The River Nene, Dallington Brook and Billing Brook, which are managed by the Environment Agency, continue to see the greatest impact from storms and heavy rainfall, with West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) leading on supporting residents and addressing flooding from smaller watercourses and rainfall. All agencies face significant challenges around the impact of repeated flooding at Billing Aquadrome, given it is part of the flood plain, which protects houses and businesses in the area. A multi-agency task group established after the previous incident in February to look at more long-term solutions for the site has met regularly and identified potential measures. This work has included developing a memorandum of understanding between the park owners Meadow Bay Villages and the Council. The owners are developing plans, working with the council and the Environment Agency, to identify ways of reducing the impact of flooding at the Aquadrome. WNC is prioritising flood management work, with a range of schemes and projects progressing, including: Updating the area’s Flood Risk Management Strategy which reflects the current position. Securing £6.2 million for the award-winning Resilience & Innovation in Northamptonshire (RAIN) project , which is developing tools and funding local projects to help reduce flood risk to properties not covered by major flood defence works. A series of local interventions to reduce specific problems in areas such as at Deanshanger and Green Lane, Northampton. Securing £400k of further funds from the Environment Agency for local measures, such as at a school where the playground will be replaced with permeable material to reduce run-off. Extreme rainfall also causes significant challenges to the roads network maintained by WNC, with the rapid, high-volume rain putting pressure on the drainage system. Whilst even a clean gully can only take so much water, the Council has a robust gully maintenance programme which has seen around 20,000 drains cleared in the past six months alone. In addition, highways teams clear those in the most flood impacted areas more frequently, to ensure the greatest protection possible. “It’s clear that we are receiving more frequent instances of extreme weather which is affecting our residents and businesses and all agencies need to work together to prioritise how we address this. “This recent stint of heavy rainfall further demonstrates the importance of the work we’re doing around flood management across West Northamptonshire. “Finding long-term and sustainable solutions to this is extremely challenging and difficult but we are committed to working together towards achieving this.” Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Joint agency flooding update
September 26, 2024
Joint agency flooding update
26 September 2024 The county is expected to have significant rainfall overnight with the Met Office issuing an amber warning for heavy rain across central parts of England, including Northamptonshire, this evening (September 26) until 6am tomorrow. The additional rainfall is expected to increase the risk of flooding in areas where water levels are already high. Flood warnings and flood alerts are in place across Northamptonshire, and people can continue to keep an eye on flood warnings that are currently in place: Agencies including Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, Northamptonshire Police, the Environment Agency and West and North Northamptonshire councils have been co-ordinating throughout the week to ensure that appropriate response plans are in place to deal with flood risks. Partners are ensuring that appropriate resources are in place with councils’ highways teams on standby to support emergency services with any flooding incidents. All people evacuated from Billing Aquadrome that were staying at the rest centre at Lings Forum Leisure Centre have now been provided with alternative temporary accommodation by West Northamptonshire Council. Residents countywide are being urged to follow safety advice, stay aware of roads that may be flooded and keep listening to alerts and advice from emergency services, the local authorities and the Environment Agency. Find further advice about flooding on the GOV.UK website . Businesses who think they may be affected can follow this checklist from the Environment Agency to best prepare in the event of a flood. Residents are also urged to avoid any unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain, and should consider the following: Do not ignore road closure signs. Never attempt to cross or drive through floodwater if you don’t know how deep the water is - just two feet of water will float a car. Never try to swim through fast flowing water or floodwater – you may get swept away or be injured by an object in the water. Don’t assume fords are safe to cross just because the road is not closed. Always look at the river level gauge and use your common sense. Find further information and guidance on flooding, and how to report it: Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council and Schools Collaborate to Shape Future of Educational Services
September 27, 2024
Council and Schools Collaborate to Shape Future of Educational Services
27 September 2024 Local schools joined West Northamptonshire Council to join forces to improve educational services and support for early years, children and young people in West Northamptonshire. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) recently hosted a collaborative education workshop, bringing together headteachers and educators from schools across the area, as well as colleagues from health, the Council and key partners, to help shape the future of early help and SEND educational services. The event, held on Thursday, 26 September, was designed to ensure that services for early years, children and young people are developed with input from those on the front lines of education, who are often the first place where a struggling family or child needing extra help might first be spotted. The workshop, organised in partnership with the West Northants Education Partnership Board and the SEND and AP Partnership Board, emphasised the importance of co-production in designing early help and SEND services that meet the needs of both educators and students. Discussions focused on the forward plan for educational services, particularly in response to the outcomes of the recent Local Area SEND and AP OFSTED/CQC Inspection. Participants explored ways to enhance and streamline support services for children, ensuring that every young person in the region has access to high-quality education. Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families, and Education at WNC, opened the event and highlighted the key role that collaboration plays in shaping effective educational services. “By working together with schools and education providers, we can ensure that the services we offer are tailored to the real needs of both teachers and students. Workshops like this are essential for building partnerships that put the best interests of our children and young people at the heart of everything we do." Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families, and Education at WNC Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive of West Northamptonshire Council, stressed the importance of collaboration between schools and the council. The event served as a real platform for exploring plans and discussing ideas, with the shared goal of enhancing the educational experiences of children across West Northamptonshire through partnership, innovation, and co-design. We hope to do further conferences on a range of themes to be agreed with our Education Partnership Board. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Joint agency flooding update
September 26, 2024
Joint agency flooding update
26 September 2024 Agencies are continuing to support Billing Aquadrome’s management with their evacuation plan whilst it remains temporarily closed due to flooding and with further flood warnings in place. Around 28 people and 5 pets stayed at the rest centre overnight and were provided with emergency bedding, toiletries and hot food and drink and supported by community volunteers from the British Red Cross and Re:Act and WNC staff. A further 21 people and their pets left the centre last night having made arrangements to stay with family and friends. West Northamptonshire Council is assessing everyone remaining at the site for their temporary accommodation needs so that further arrangements can be made until it is safe for them to return to the site. All agencies including the Fire Service, Police and Environment Agency are continually assessing the conditions at the site and the ongoing weather however with more rainfall expected, a flood warning remains in place for the site. Having ordered the evacuation of the site, the park’s management is working with electricians, plumbers and other contractors with a view to ensuring preparations are made to move people back once the flooding risks have passed and it is safe to do so. With more heavy rain expected over the next couple of days, residents are urged to continue to take extra care, as six flood warnings and 10 flood alerts remain in place across West Northamptonshire. Water levels across the area remain very high, with flood warnings currently in place on the River Nene at Billing and Cogenhoe to Great Doddington, as well as the River Tove at Towcester and Cosgrove and low lying areas close to the River Great Ouse and River Ouzel at Newport Pagnell. People should plan ahead their journeys as well as continuing to keep an eye on flood alerts and warnings in place . In the event of an emergency where someone is in danger, they should dial 999 or 112. Further information and guidance on flooding and to report it visit Report a flood | West Northamptonshire Council (westnorthants.gov.uk) Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Joint Agency Update on flooding at Billing Aquadrome
September 26, 2024
Joint Agency Update on flooding at Billing Aquadrome
UPDATE 25 September 08:45 This is a brief update about the operation that took place at Billing Aquadrome last night. Agencies worked together until around midnight (Tuesday/Wednesday) to support the management of Billing Aquadrome with the evacuation of people from the park. Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Northamptonshire Search and Rescue supported the park’s management with the full evacuation of the site, and we understand a very limited number of people remain there. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Northamptonshire Search and Rescue fielded Specialist Water Rescue Teams in full PPE and used 4×4 vehicles to help 43 people away from areas that were affected by the rising flood water. West Northamptonshire Council carried out welfare checks on any vulnerable people at the site and supported Billing’s evacuation plans by providing an overnight rest centre and emergency bedding at Lings Forum Leisure Centre for 52 people and 22 dogs displaced by the flooding. Local community volunteers from Red Cross and Re:Act are supporting people at the centre who have been provided with hot food and drink. Support from the Fire Service on site finished at around midnight but we will be returning this morning to continue to support the site and its management. All the agencies in the co-ordinating group, including all the health partners, both West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire Councils and the Environment Agency continue to work on a joint response to the situation and the wider impact of the flooding in Northamptonshire. People across the county are asked to continue to follow the safety advice on our social media feeds, following the Environment Agency for flood alerts. You can find advice on what to do during a flood at GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Firefighters rescue people from boats on River Nene
September 26, 2024
Firefighters rescue people from boats on River Nene
Firefighters from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service have continued their work at the River Nene in Northampton to help boats in difficulty. Crews were first called at 6:23am this morning (24th September) to South Bridge after reports that the river had burst its banks. On arrival, firefighters found that the river had breached the side of the bank and liaised with boat owners to offer safety advice. After speaking to firefighters, three occupants were assisted from their boats on to dry land. One boat had sunk at the location yesterday, with no one reported to be on board. Shortly afterwards, at 7:13am, crews were re-located to Old Towcester Road where they found two boats becoming submerged by fast moving water. Crews, including Swiftwater Rescue Technicians, used rafts to rescue two people and a dog from the boats, before leading them to safety. All crews had left the area and returned to their stations, shortly after 8:45am.
Fire Service continue to deal with flooding as residents reminded to follow safety advice
September 26, 2024
Fire Service continue to deal with flooding as residents reminded to follow safety advice
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service received 160 calls yesterday (September 24) with over a hundred being weather related. 33 needed a response from the Fire Service and the other 72 were given advice over the phone or did not require attendance. We are continuing to urge members of the public to follow safety advice, and many areas of the county have been affected by flooding. You can find up-to-date warnings and information at GOV.UK (check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk) . On Monday, between 11am and 7am, crews attended over 30 flood-related incidents across the county. Many of these incidents only required advice, however some required further intervention. These included: Isolating utilities and clearing drains at a flooded Kingsthorpe Shopping Centre Pumping water away at Harlestone Road, Northampton Assisting staff with an evacuation at the Park Campus of University of Northampton Unblocking drains at Glebe Road, Deanshanger Pumping away water and monitoring the ground in Carrs Way, Harpole Assisting at floodings at Duston Road in Upper Harlestone, Upton Close in Woodford Halse and Prestpury Road in Northampton Flooding at properties on Rose Hall Lane in Middleton Cheney and Glassthorpe Lane in Harpole A fire underground, believed to be caused by water damage in Beech Grove, Northampton Assisted neighbouring Fire Service with a person trapped in a vehicle due to flooding in Biddlesden Attended report of a boat in difficulty on the River Nene at South Bridge Road, Northampton Isolating electrics at properties on Holyrood Walk in Corby and Balmoral Road in Northampton due to flood damage There were 7 incidents of water damage causing false alarms Despite the weather calming today, there is still a lot of standing water and flooding on the road. Please take care while driving, there may be hazards under water that aren’t visible. Please continue to follow warnings and safety advice given by the Fire Service and other local agencies.
Headline acts revealed ahead of Northampton’s revitalised Market Square grand reopening
September 24, 2024
Headline acts revealed ahead of Northampton’s revitalised Market Square grand reopening
24 September 2024 West Northamptonshire is gearing up for an unforgettable weekend as the newly revitalised and reimagined Northampton Market Square prepares to reopen with a spectacular celebration on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October. The two-day event promises to be a vibrant display of community spirit, culture, and live entertainment that residents and visitors won’t want to miss, with ABBA tribute the Magic of ABBA and Britain’s Got Talent 2024 finalists Northants Sings Out announced as the headline acts. BBC Introducing and Northampton Music Festival will also provide music and entertainment throughout both days, bringing some of the best emerging talent from across the country to the main stage, creating an energetic and festival atmosphere. "It is a huge honour to be part of such a historical moment in time for Northampton. Having been raised and educated here, I've watched the transformation of the Market Square in awe. “It was a pleasure to take the name Northampton onto the national stage during our time on this year’s Britain's Got Talent and it's now a pleasure to represent just some of the musical greatness we have in Northampton as we headline the closing of what I know will be a wonderful weekend celebrating the place we live, work and love so much." Gareth Fuller, Founder and Choir Director of Northants Sings Out Hosted by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and supported by Northampton Forward, Northampton BID and Northampton Town Council, the grand opening will mark the transformation of the town’s historic Market Square into a thriving hub for the whole community. The space, revitalised as part of a major regeneration project funded by the Government’s Towns Fund, is set to become a landmark that will serve as the beating heart of Northampton for generations to come. But the celebration doesn’t stop with live music! Attendees can look forward to a host of family-friendly activities, from creative musical performances and cultural displays to historic exhibitions and mouth-watering food and drink from local vendors, all spaced out in a variety of accessible Zone areas. People will also have the chance to explore a diverse range of offerings from local businesses and market traders; from fresh, locally produced goods to handmade crafts and expert services like bicycle repairs, key cutting, floristry, and more, the market will showcase the best of Northampton’s small businesses and will provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to support local traders and discover unique products. Starting with the phased return of traders on 20 September, the newly transformed Market Square will become a bustling marketplace with high-quality stalls, enhanced lighting, new seating, and an impressive interactive water feature. The space is designed to be inclusive and accessible, offering a welcoming environment for all. “We are extremely excited to be celebrating the grand opening of Northampton’s newly revitalised Market Square, a project that truly embodies the spirit of our community. “The regeneration of the Market Square is not just about celebrating the past, but about creating a bright future for Northampton. The project aims to boost the local economy, support small businesses, and provide a vibrant venue for events, markets, and community gatherings. “This opening event marks a new chapter for the town, and we look forward to seeing the square become a central hub where residents and visitors can come together to enjoy everything Northampton has to offer. We invite everyone to join us for a fantastic weekend of fun, entertainment, and celebration." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC Mark your calendars and come along for a weekend of fun, flavour, and festivities as we celebrate the reimagined Northampton Market Square. This is a not-to-be-missed event that will leave a lasting legacy for the town. For more information on the grand opening and the event schedule, please visit the Reopening of Northampton Market Square . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Latest update on severe weather from West Northamptonshire Council
September 24, 2024
Latest update on severe weather from West Northamptonshire Council
24 September 2024 Residents are urged to continue to take extra care today as flood warnings and road closures remain in place across West Northamptonshire following the extreme weather. Although the intense rainfall has eased off overnight, water levels across the area remain very high, with flood warnings still in place at Dallington, Grendon Brook, Wootton Brook and Cogenhoe Mill. People should plan ahead their journeys as well as continuing to keep an eye on flood alerts and warnings in place. In the event of an emergency where someone is in danger, they should dial 999 or 112. Further information and guidance on flooding and to report it visit visit Report a flood | West Northamptonshire Council (westnorthants.gov.uk) The stormy conditions have put extreme pressure on the road network, causing localised flooding and overwhelming ditches and brooks due to the rapid and intense rainfall not able to drain away fast enough across the system. Highways response teams for Kier and West Northamptonshire Council have been out and about supporting emergency services, having attended 185 incidents since Saturday, 149 of which were flooding related with the remainder a mix of emergencies, such as fallen trees and dislodged/broken manhole covers. “Although the rainfall has eased off overnight, the high levels of rivers, reservoirs and water outlets across the area remain extremely high and could still be breached, so we would urge everyone to continue to take extra care. “We are working closely with the fire service, police, environment agency and other partners on responding to the ongoing weather events and continue to closely monitor the situation.” “It’s clear that this extreme rainfall has caused significant challenges for our roads network, with the rapid, sheer volume of rain that has fallen in the past three days putting pressure on the drainage system. “Although we work hard to ensure drains and gullies are well maintained – emptying around 20,000 gullies across West Northants in the past six months alone – the intensity of severe weather events like this will unfortunately lead to some roads flooding. “Our response teams have been working round the clock to attend reports across the area, supporting the fire service and police to ensure residents are safe during these extreme weather conditions.” Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
National partner identified to deliver regeneration of Greyfriars, Northampton
September 25, 2024
National partner identified to deliver regeneration of Greyfriars, Northampton
25 September 2024 West Northamptonshire Council is set to partner with national placemaker, ECF – a joint venture between Legal & General, Homes England, and Muse – to deliver the regeneration of Greyfriars in Northampton Town Centre. ECF works with local authorities across the country to deliver high-quality schemes which provide diverse facilities for local communities. The agreement would enable the partnership to explore and shape planning, delivery, and funding for the largest brownfield regeneration opportunity within West Northamptonshire. Once established, the proposal would be subject to further approvals from both ECF and the Council, expected to be in summer 2025. Greyfriars includes the former Greyfriars Bus Station, which was demolished in 2015, as well as the Mayorhold and Victoria Street Car Parks, Corn Exchange, Belgrave House, and East and West Island totalling over 14 acres. The vision, which has been developed by West Northamptonshire Council and Studio Egret West with support from Homes England, seeks to re-imagine several derelict buildings with exciting new uses. The Corn Exchange could form an arts and culture hub, whilst Belgrave House provides opportunities for an innovative workplace and business incubator. The regeneration could also include a new outdoor Amphitheatre to anchor landmark new public spaces. New homes would support a vibrant new neighbourhood, alongside shops, cafes, and restaurants as part of a dynamic new place. New residents and visitors are expected to spend an additional £21m in Northampton which will help drive the economy of the entire town centre., with as many as 7,000 full time equivalent jobs created during construction, generating £1 billion in economic value. “Transformational change is already underway across Northampton town centre with the redevelopment of the Market Square, and rejuvenation of Abington and Fish Street. “As well as development plans on brownfield land at Four Waterside and Marefair which demonstrates the Council’s ambition but also commitment to delivering better public spaces. This partnership is an exciting step forward in our vision to regenerate the Greyfriars site into a vibrant neighbourhood which is set to amplify this part of town and turn this into a reality. “ECF obtain a wide breadth of skills and knowledge which they will be bringing to West Northamptonshire as part of a long-term relationship to bring forward a viable and sustainable scheme.” Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure “West Northamptonshire Council has developed an ambitious and exciting vision for Greyfriars, as part of a bold approach to the wider regeneration of Northampton Town Centre. “Working in partnership with the local authority, ECF will support the development of a delivery model which aligns with the Greyfriars vision and supports long-term regeneration. “Greyfriars has the potential to drive significant social and economic value and working together we can unlock the opportunity. Having expanded in size to £400m, ECF stands ready to collaborate with ambitious partners to deliver transformative regeneration.” Sir Michael Lyons, Chair at ECF To find out more about the regeneration taking place across Northampton visit we are Northampton . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Special screening of Streets of Change film to mark World Homeless Day
September 24, 2024
Special screening of Streets of Change film to mark World Homeless Day
24 September 2024 In recognition of World Homeless Day on 10 October, Northampton Filmhouse will host a special screening of Streets of Change, a powerful documentary film that highlights the lived experiences of homelessness and recovery in Northampton. The free 90-minute event will take place at 6pm and aims to raise awareness of homelessness by following people’s journey from sleeping on the streets to recovery and signposting to the support available for those who find themselves in a housing crisis. Film makers One to One Development Trust worked closely with West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Outreach Team to create the film, documenting their work supporting people who are homeless, sleeping rough or struggling with addiction and shedding light on the individuals and partners who work tirelessly to bring about positive change. In addition to the documentary film, the One to One Development Trust have also produced an immersive Virtual Reality (VR) experience to give an insight into what it is like to be alone and homeless on the street at night. The Virtual Reality scene uses poetry and artwork created by people who are homeless to bring together an evocative experience that can be used in education and for awareness-raising. The film has gained significant acclaim and will also be showcased at prestigious international film festivals, including the New York Workers Unite Film Festival ; a 20-day event dedicated to films that celebrate global labour solidarity and justice, while the VR experience will feature at Aesthetica Short Film Festival (ASFF) in York, England; one of the UK’s leading platforms for independent films. “We made "Streets of Change" to illuminate the often-overlooked stories of people who are homeless, challenging the stigmas and stereotypes that surround them. “By highlighting the resilience of people who have been, or who currently are, homeless and maybe going through addiction and recovery, we aim to spark important conversations, inspire empathy, and drive community action. It was also important to us to tell the stories of the outreach workers who are trying to make a positive difference every day.” Judi Alston, Film Director of One to One Development Trust "The Streets of Change documentary provides a moving and essential perspective on the issue of homelessness, and we hope it will inspire audiences to reflect on the importance of support, solidarity, and action in tackling this pressing challenge. “We are very excited to see the film gain international recognition at festivals to further amplify its critical message and showcase the great work of our housing teams and partners in West Northamptonshire to a global audience." Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing at WNC In addition to the 30-minute screening, attendees at Northampton Filmhouse will have the opportunity to participate in a post-film discussion, exploring ways in which the community can come together to combat homelessness and support those affected. For more information on the screening and to book tickets, visit the Northampton Filmhouse . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Joint Agency Update on flooding at Billing Aquadrome
September 25, 2024
Joint Agency Update on flooding at Billing Aquadrome
25 September 2024 This is a brief update about the operation that took place at Billing Aquadrome last night. Agencies worked together until around midnight (Tuesday/Wednesday) to support the management of Billing Aquadrome with the evacuation of people from the park. Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Northamptonshire Search and Rescue supported the park’s management with the full evacuation of the site, and we understand a very limited number of people remain there. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Northamptonshire Search and Rescue fielded Specialist Water Rescue Teams in full PPE and used 4x4 vehicles to help 43 people away from areas that were affected by the rising flood water. West Northamptonshire Council carried out welfare checks on any vulnerable people at the site and supported Billing’s evacuation plans by providing an overnight rest centre and emergency bedding at Lings Forum Leisure Centre for 52 people and 22 dogs displaced by the flooding. Local community volunteers from Red Cross and Re:Act are supporting people at the centre who have been provided with hot food and drink. Support from the Fire Service on site finished at around midnight but we will be returning this morning to continue to support the site and its management. All the agencies in the co-ordinating group, including all the health partners, both West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire Councils and the Environment Agency continue to work on a joint response to the situation and the wider impact of the flooding in Northamptonshire. People across the county are asked to continue to follow the safety advice on our social media feeds, following the Environment Agency for flood alerts. Find advice on what to do during a flood . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Joint agency update – flooding at Billing Aquadrome
September 24, 2024
Joint agency update – flooding at Billing Aquadrome
24 September 2024 Agencies are working together tonight to support the management of Billing Aquadrome, which is evacuating the park due to flooding at the site. Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, and teams of professionals from West Northamptonshire Council are co-ordinating their response at the site, where they are in support of the Aquadrome’s management who are putting their evacuation plan in place. Northamptonshire Search and Rescue is working with the Fire Service and ready to respond if needed. West Northamptonshire Council teams are carrying out welfare checks on any vulnerable people at the site and are on standby to support. All these agencies are working in a co-ordinated response based in the Fire Service Joint Command Unit at Billing Aquadrome. Throughout the evening, a wider co-ordinating group including all the health partners and the Environment Agency have been monitoring the situation at Billing and the wider situation in the county so that they are ready to respond. Billing Aquadrome management has sounded the evacuation sirens for the site, and people staying there are asked to leave. All the agencies will continue to remain at the Aquadrome throughout the evening and while the emergency response is needed. They will also continue to ensure that appropriate resources are in place to deal with any other flooding incidents in the county this evening. While today has been dry, conditions are still difficult on many roads with standing water and localised flooding. People across the county are asked to continue to follow the safety advice on our social media feeds, following the Environment Agency for flood alerts. You can find advice on what to do during a flood at GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Joint Agency Update on flooding at Billing Aquadrome
September 25, 2024
Joint Agency Update on flooding at Billing Aquadrome
25 September 2024 Agencies worked together until around midnight (Tuesday/Wednesday) to support the management of Billing Aquadrome with the evacuation of people from the park. Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Northamptonshire Search and Rescue supported the park’s management with the full evacuation of the site, and we understand a very limited number of people remain there. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Northamptonshire Search and Rescue fielded Specialist Water Rescue Teams in full PPE and used 4x4 vehicles to help 43 people away from areas that were affected by the rising flood water. West Northamptonshire Council carried out welfare checks on any vulnerable people at the site and supported Billing’s evacuation plans by providing an overnight rest centre and emergency bedding at Lings Forum Leisure Centre for 52 people and 22 dogs displaced by the flooding. Local community volunteers from Red Cross and Re:Act are supporting people at the centre who have been provided with hot food and drink. Support from the Fire Service on site finished at around midnight but we will be returning this morning to continue to support the site and its management. All the agencies in the co-ordinating group, including all the health partners, both West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire Councils and the Environment Agency continue to work on a joint response to the situation and the wider impact of the flooding in Northamptonshire. People across the county are asked to continue to follow the safety advice on our social media feeds, following the Environment Agency for flood alerts. You can find advice on what to do during a flood at GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Wantage Park: online pre-planning consultation is now open
September 25, 2024
Wantage Park: online pre-planning consultation is now open
25 September 2024 Residents, businesses, and community groups are invited to take part in an online pre-planning consultation for the proposed Wantage Park crematorium and celebration facility. The online engagement launched today, Wednesday 25 September and will run through until Wednesday 16 October. Visit our Wantage Park pages to review the plans and then head to our consultation portal to share your views before a planning application is submitted for the scheme in November. The project plans are available for public viewing at Moulton Community Library from Wednesday, 25 September until Wednesday, 2 October. “This consultation is the start of a conversation which will give you an opportunity to share your feedback at an early stage and help shape the future of this facility. The feedback gathered from this pre-planning consultation will play a key role in shaping the final plans and I urge everyone to get involved. "Your input is important as we aim to ensure this is a facility - that not only provides much-needed facilities but also provides community facilities and preserves green space. We are committed to listening, adapting, and working together to make this project a success for all of West Northamptonshire.” Councillor Mike Hallam, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and HR Earlier this month the Council set out plans for a state-of-the-art and sustainable new facility on land at Wantage Farm, in the Round Spinney area of Northampton. The facility will feature sustainable design elements, including energy-efficient electric cremators, heat recovery systems, and green roofs, all aimed at supporting local biodiversity and contributing to a greener Northampton. The development of Wantage Park will also bring numerous benefits to the local community. The surrounding land will be transformed into recreational spaces, including walking paths and green areas, encouraging outdoor activities and community well-being. Careful planning will ensure minimal visual, traffic, and noise impacts. Infrastructure improvements, such as a new independent access road, enhanced public footpaths, and boundary screening, will further support the local area. In addition to providing essential services, the construction and operation of Wantage Park will create jobs and support local businesses. Wantage Park will offer a range of features designed to meet the diverse needs of our community, including level access across the site, accessible parking, adaptable lighting for neurodiverse individuals, and multi-functional spaces for community use. The proposed design will be inclusive, accommodating various faiths and providing spaces that respect the privacy and dignity of all users. Find out more about Wantage Park on the West Northamptonshire Council website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Serious Violence Partnership awards £68,642 to Expand Parents under Pressure program
September 23, 2024
Serious Violence Partnership awards £68,642 to Expand Parents under Pressure program
23 September 2024 Northamptonshire Serious Violence Prevention Partnership (NSVPP), has awarded £68,642 to Family Support Link, supporting the expansion of the Northamptonshire Parents under Pressure program (PuP). The NSVPP first supported the program in 2023 and this new award extends the program to support additional families with complex needs, including parental substance abuse and children either currently engaged with child protection or those who are at imminent risk of going into care. It focuses on working with the parents to develop emotional regulation skills, confidence and be emotionally supportive so they can support their children in developing their own self-regulation. The expansion of the programme will target early intervention within families that have high risk factors for becoming involved in serious violence. This project is a part of the NSVPP’s proactive public health approach to serious violence, aiming to not just tackling the problem but preventing its occurrence. It will help protect children and young people from experiencing adverse childhood experiences while building resilience and other protective factors. Addressing these challenges reduces the potential for children to become involved in a life of crime, violence and drugs. “We are thrilled to be awarded the funding to grow and develop our Parents under Pressure programme. We work with families who have often been supported time and again, in ways that have never quite worked for them. “By taking a positive approach, looking at the strengths within the parents and family we help them take back control of their lives and have hope for the future. We’ve seen first-hand the impact of this project and are hugely excited that we are now able to expand it.” Kate Peake, Chief Executive Officer for Family Support Link “Giving effective support services to young people is so important when it comes to preventing them from becoming involved in serious violence or criminal behaviour. “We need to understand the root causes behind this kind of behaviour so that we can come up with solutions to tackle it, and this is one of my key priorities since becoming the Commissioner in May. “By equipping parents with the skills they need so that they can help their own children, I have no doubt the Parents Under Pressure program is going to be hugely influential in helping to divert young people across the county away from a life of crime and improving their quality of life, and I am delighted to be able to support the work they do.” Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
One-stop shops to be introduced for carers in Northamptonshire
September 24, 2024
One-stop shops to be introduced for carers in Northamptonshire
24 September 2024 Carers across Northamptonshire can now attend one-stop shops hosted in locations across county to receive practical advice and support. This comes following engagement with carers delivered by North and West Northamptonshire Councils to ensure they can access the information they need. One-Stop Shops are where carers can go for information, signposting to other services and receive support, both from Council staff and each other. The One-Stop Shops will be provided in each Local Area Partnership (LAP) in both West and North Northamptonshire council areas. A LAP is a geographical area based on council wards. WNC and NNC have worked with the Integrated Care Board and using the Accelerating Reform Fund to enable this project to come forward. Northamptonshire Carers have been commissioned to provide the One-Stop Shops on behalf of the Councils and ICB. A carer is defined as a person that provides unpaid support to a partner, family member, friend or neighbour who is ill or disabled and could not manage without this help. This is distinct from a care worker, that is paid to support people. “We fully recognise the invaluable contribution of our carers, and we are delighted to have worked with them to ensure that we’re able to provide services which meet their needs. By working collaboratively with carers, we can provide services within their local communities which provide them with the skills and resources they need balance their caring responsibilities and their wellbeing.” Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health, and Regulatory Services at WNC To find out more about locations taking place in your local community visit: Events | Northamptonshire Carers Association (northamptonshire-carers.org) Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
People urged to take extra care as weather warnings remain in place across West Northants
September 23, 2024
People urged to take extra care as weather warnings remain in place across West Northants
23 September 2024 Residents across West Northamptonshire are urged to continue to take extra care as additional heavy rainfall is expected across the area for the remainder of today. Over the weekend the area saw extreme rainfall causing surface flooding across the area, with yellow weather warnings for heavy rain in place until later tonight. Residents can keep updated via the Met Office . Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council said: “We are currently working with our partners including police and fire to respond to the ongoing weather situation and supporting with incidents of localised flooding. With heavy rainfall expected to continue throughout today we are closely monitoring the situation to ensure we can support residents through this changing situation. “We would urge everyone to take extra care and keep an eye on the police, fire service and our social media feeds for updates and visit our flooding advice pages for further information and support.” Residents can report flooding via our website, and in the event of an emergency where someone is in danger, people should dial 999 or 112. People can stay informed about the latest flood alerts and warnings on the Government website and are advised to be cautious, especially if out and about on the roads. To help keep everyone safe, here are some safety tips from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service: Keep an eye on weather reports for flooding in your area. Do not travel in heavy rain unless absolutely necessary Do not ignore road closed signs Never attempt to cross or drive through floodwater if you don’t know how deep the water is - just two feet of water will float a car Never try to swim through fast flowing water or floodwater – you may get swept away or be injured by an object in the water Don’t assume fords are safe to cross just because the road is not closed - always look at the river level gauge and use your common sense Floodwater may be contaminated, never allow children or pets to go near or play in floodwater Prepare a flood kit in case your home floods or you are trapped in a vehicle for any period. This should contain a change of clothing, wellies, waterproofs and blankets as well as a torch, charged mobile, medication and a first aid kit and a list of useful numbers, including flood alert lines. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Wantage Park: Public invited to review plans and share views
September 24, 2024
Wantage Park: Public invited to review plans and share views
24 September 2024 Residents and businesses are being encouraged to have their say on proposals for a new crematorium ahead of planning being sought for the scheme. The pre-planning consultation for Wantage Park crematorium and wake facility will start with an in-person session at Moulton Community Centre on Wednesday, 25 September from 5pm to 8pm, where residents can view the project plans, ask questions, and provide feedback before a planning application is submitted for the scheme in November. For those unable to attend the in-person session, the project plans will remain available for public viewing at Moulton Community Library from 25 September until Wednesday, 2 October. Additionally, an online consultation will start on 25 September ensuring everyone will have a chance to share their views. “This consultation is the start of a conversation which will give you an opportunity to share your feedback at an early stage and help shape the future of this facility. The feedback gathered from this pre-planning consultation will play a key role in shaping the final plans and I urge everyone to get involved. "Your input is important as we aim to ensure this is a facility - that is not only much-needed but also provides community facilities and preserves green space. We are committed to listening, adapting, and working together to make this project a success for all of West Northamptonshire.” Councillor Mike Hallam, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and HR at West Northamptonshire Council Earlier this month the Council set out plans for a state-of-the-art and sustainable new facility on land at Wantage Farm, in the Round Spinney area of Northampton. The facility will feature sustainable design elements, including energy-efficient electric cremators, heat recovery systems, and green roofs, all aimed at supporting local biodiversity and contributing to a greener Northampton. The development of Wantage Park will also bring benefits to the local community. The surrounding land will be transformed into recreational spaces, including walking paths and green areas, encouraging outdoor activities and community well-being. Careful planning will ensure minimal visual, traffic, and noise impacts. Infrastructure improvements, such as a new independent access road, enhanced public footpaths, and boundary screening, will further support the local area. In addition to providing essential services, the construction and operation of Wantage Park will create jobs and support local businesses. Wantage Park will offer a range of features designed to meet the diverse needs of our community, including level access across the site, accessible parking, adaptable lighting for neurodiverse individuals, and multi-functional spaces for community use. The proposed design will be inclusive, accommodating various faiths and providing spaces that respect the privacy and dignity of all users. Find out more about Wantage Park . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Vaccination gives protection for pregnant women and their unborn child
September 23, 2024
Vaccination gives protection for pregnant women and their unborn child
23 September 2024 Pregnant women across West Northamptonshire are being encouraged to take up the free flu vaccine offer ahead of the winter months. Pregnant women, and their unborn child, are at a higher risk of complications and more severe conditions such as pneumonia, as the immune system naturally weakens during pregnancy. Flu can also affect the growth of their baby, which could lead to still birth. There is a higher risk of pregnant women being admitted to hospital due to flu than the general population. In 2023-2024 64% of pregnant women, in West Northamptonshire did not get vaccinated against flu, increasing the likeliness of them catching the seasonal flu infection. This year, West Northamptonshire Public Health are encouraging pregnant women to get vaccinated as soon as they can. We are starting to see an increase in respiratory infections within the community and with the colder weather there will be more mixing and movement indoors, which will lead to an increase in the spread of all viruses, including flu. It is, therefore, important that those who are pregnant get vaccinated as soon as possible. “Getting the flu vaccination not only protects you, but also your unborn baby and can prevent serious health problems to both mother and child. Those who are pregnant have a higher chance of developing complications if they get flu in all stages of pregnancy. Please do speak to your midwife or GP about how you can get your flu vaccination.” Clare Flower, Head of Midwifery from Northampton General Hospital “I encourage all pregnant women to have their flu vaccine to help protect themselves and their unborn child from flu this winter. The flu vaccine is safe to be given at any stage of their pregnancy, from the first few weeks right up to the due date. I urge pregnant women to prioritise vaccination and get in touch with your midwife or GP to book.” Dr Annapurna Sen, Consultant in Health Protection for West Northamptonshire Council It is also encouraged that women take up other vaccinations offered whilst they are pregnant, including Whooping Cough (Pertussis), so they and their unborn child are protected against vaccine preventative infections. For further information, visit the West Northamptonshire Council Immunisation page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Residents urged to follow advice during storm and flooding
September 24, 2024
Residents urged to follow advice during storm and flooding
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service received 81 calls over the weekend (September 21 and 22) regarding weather related incidents. Twenty-eight of these needed the Fire Service to attend and the 53 other cases have been able to receive advice over the phone. The county is currently under an Amber weather alert for rain until 9pm and Yellow Alert until midnight tonight and so, with the adverse weather continuing, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is asking the public to be aware of roads that may be flooded and to keep listening to alerts and advice given by the Service and local authorities. You can find advice on what to do during a flood at GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) There are already reports of difficult driving conditions on many roads in the county, with reports of abandoned cars in Easton Maudit and Grendon. On Saturday (September 21), crews attended four weather-related incidents all in the North of the county. These included, flood water entered properties in Wilby, Earls Barton and Wollaston, with crews isolating electrics at the respective properties and giving advice to home owners. They also attended a house that had been struck by lightning in Desborough. Fours crews and an aerial appliance attended at the height of the incident and quickly got to work to stop the fire spreading. One crew remained on the scene until just after 11pm to dampen down any remaining hotspots. On Sunday, the bad weather on Sunday morning (September 22) was mostly in and around Northampton, with crews being called to 12 flooded related incidents in the town between 8am and 10am. Other incidents we attended included: The crew from Wellingborough and the water rescue unit from Mereway attended the village of Grendon, where crews assisted residents whose properties were flooded, and rescued two people from the water. Moulton crew pumped out 50,000 litres of flood water in the open at Kingscroft Court. Attended to assist with a car stuck in flood water on the A5199 in Guilsborough shortly before 10am. Shortly before 1pm, crews from Wellingborough and Moulton were called to Washbrook Road in Rushden, where lightning had struck the chimney of a domestic property. The lightning strike caused the structure to become dangerous, and crews used the aerial appliance to remove loose bricks from the top of the chimney. Just after 7pm crews from Earls Barton, Mereway and the water rescue unit at Wellingborough attended the village of Easton Maudit as a number of houses have been affected by flood water. Crews attended the care home and neighbouring properties to check the welfare of occupants, and all were well. Wellingborough was called to deal with another lightning strike, this time affecting a home in Hollowell Street in Wollaston. There was no evidence of a fire and advice was given to the occupants. Just after 8pm, two people were walked out of flood water by firefighters on Easton Way in Grendon. The on-call crew from Irthlingborough pumped large amounts of water out of North Street in Raunds. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people to take care and follow the below advice: Keep an eye on weather reports for flooding in your area. Do not travel in heavy rain unless absolutely necessary. Do not ignore road closed signs Never attempt to cross or drive through floodwater if you don’t know how deep the water is. Just two feet of water will float a car. Never try to swim through fast flowing water or floodwater – you may get swept away or be injured by an object in the water. Don’t assume fords are safe to cross just because the road is not closed. Always look at the river level gauge and use your common sense. Floodwater may be contaminated. Never allow children or pets to go near or play in floodwater. Prepare a flood kit in case your home floods or you are trapped in a vehicle for any period. This should contain a change of clothing, wellies, waterproofs and blankets as well as a torch, charged mobile, medication and a first aid kit and a list of useful numbers, including flood alert lines. Area Manager Neil Sadler said: “I want to urge members of the public to take care when driving and consider whether they could reschedule their journey. There may be abandoned cars on the road and hazards under the water that aren’t visible. “We ask people to keep listening to forecasts and follow the safety messages and advice shared by the Fire Service and other partners during this time.”
Action plan set to improve social housing services in West Northants
September 23, 2024
Action plan set to improve social housing services in West Northants
23 September 2024 An action plan is underway to improve performance of services for social housing tenants in West Northamptonshire. West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) social housing provider Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH) is embarking on an improvement plan to address performance issues with the support of the Local Authority after recently falling short on targets. It follows significant changes to how the social housing sector is regulated nationally, with WNC responsible for ensuring stringent new standards and legislation are met to improve safety and support tenants. WNC are also required to ensure the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) is kept informed on performance and any potential breaches of standards, regular communication is maintained with RSH where appropriate. NPH was set up by WNC (formerly Northampton Borough Council) in 2015 for an initial period of 15 years and is responsible for providing essential landlord services including delivering new housing developments, investing in existing stock, tenancy support, housing management, and repairs and maintenance. Given the current levels of underperformance and the increased requirements for the Council to ensure compliance with regulatory standards, WNC have commissioned an independent assessment of landlord services’ current levels of compliance, carried out by Jarteign Housing Associates. The assessments has begun looking at current performance, policy, practice and assurance frameworks and will provide an independent view on compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements. Following completion of the independent assessment, WNC will present the findings and recommendations report alongside an associated action plan to Cabinet later this year. Additionally, a Housing Compliance working group chaired by WNC’s Director of Communities and Opportunities is meeting weekly to review progress on key workstreams. “NPH’s recent performance update to members showed they are falling short of targets, however work is already underway to address this and the Council is closely monitoring the situation. “We have made it clear to the NPH Board that this is not acceptable and it is critical that an improvement plan must be implemented to fix this. The Council will continue to monitor NPH’s progress to ensure we receive assurance as a landlord and Registered Provider that our housing stock is being managed efficiently in line with ours and our tenants’ expectations, and in accordance with relevant legislation and regulation. “We are working closely with partners to outline a clear timeline of actions which will improve housing performance and ensure tenants in all areas receive the best service possible. We endeavour to provide improved transparency around these actions and the improvement plan will be shared in due course. We are working closely with the regulator to ensure we meet the required standards as soon as possible.” Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Week of action to create a cleaner Northampton town centre
September 23, 2024
Week of action to create a cleaner Northampton town centre
23 September 2024 Neighbourhood wardens from West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) have been visiting businesses in Northampton town centre in support of a new policy to keep the area clean and tidy. It’s part of a week of action to help local traders comply with the new Northampton Town Centre Environmental Policy, which sets out how commercial waste should be stored and handled. Visitors to the town centre may have seen the bright orange stickers on some bins helping identify the bin owners. These stickers form part of wider guidance and information being offered to business owners so that they can understand what the policy means for them and what they must do to comply. During the week of action that took place from 9 to 13 September, neighbourhood wardens visited over 400 businesses and placed over 1200 stickers on commercial bins. Feedback received from businesses was positive and in support of the new policy. “As part of the regeneration of Northampton town centre we want to make sure that it is a safe and clean environment for those visiting for leisure and work. All organisations have a responsibility to ensure any waste produced from their activities is handled, stored and disposed of in the correct way.” Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services “The new policy is in place to improve everyone’s experience when visiting Northampton Town Centre and create a more pleasant and safer environment by dealing with unsightly bin storage. Our neighbourhood wardens have been visiting businesses owners to help them understand the policy and what actions they need to take to comply.” Cllr Rebecca Breese, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste The area covered extends to the inner ring road, bounded by Mounts, Campbell Square, Broad Street, Horse Market, St Peter’s Way, Victoria Promenade, Cheyne Walk and York Road. If successful, this pilot scheme may be extended to other areas of West Northamptonshire. The full policy can be viewed here . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Event showcases West Northamptonshire as top business destination
September 23, 2024
Event showcases West Northamptonshire as top business destination
23 September 2024 West Northamptonshire Council’s Economic Growth & Inward Investment Team highlighted the region’s prime position for business investment and support during the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce’s annual business exhibition at Franklin’s Gardens on Thursday, 19 September. Joined by the South Midlands Growth Hub and Northamptonshire Business and Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC) , officers were on hand to engage with exhibitors and visitors, discussing a wide range of opportunities available to both established and start-up businesses in West Northamptonshire. Attendees explored investment prospects, business support services, and funding options designed to help local companies grow and thrive. As part of the event, visitors were invited to enter a raffle to win a luxury hamper of local produce, generously donated by local businesses including Amazon in Daventry, Creations of the Heart (Towcester), Towcester Mill Brewery, and Northampton-based Mooch, Vintage Guru, D&B Communications, and Cardew & Co. The lucky winner selected was Serena Merrison from High Voltage Systems & Services (HVSS) in Kettering. Cllr Daniel Lister, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & Leisure said: "The Chamber’s Business Exhibition is always a fantastic opportunity to connect with hundreds of local businesses and share the free support and funding we can offer as a local authority. “West Northamptonshire is an ideal location for investment and business growth, and we want to ensure businesses of all sizes, at all stages of development, receive the support they need to thrive. From access to funding streams to advice on upskilling staff, finding premises, or filling vacancies, we offer a wide range of services to help our local businesses succeed. “Economic prosperity is key to improving the lives of everyone in West Northamptonshire, and we are committed to working collaboratively with partners and stakeholders to achieve this." Finalists for this year’s Chamber Business Awards were also announced at the event with 8 West Northamptonshire businesses shortlisted for the two Council sponsored awards, including Proaction Martial Arts, Wallace Hind Selection Ltd, HES Sales Limited and The NX Group who were shortlisted for West Northamptonshire Business of the Year Award, and Agilico, Sedgebrook Hall, HN Communications and Great Central Plastics Ltd who were shortlisted for the West Northamptonshire Sustainability Award. The winners will be announced at the Chamber Awards on 22 nd November. For more information on the exhibition and finalists, visit the Northamptonshire Chamber website . To access a wide range of free business support, including help with sourcing funding, finding commercial premises, and more, visit the West Northamptonshire Council website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Peace vigil to celebrate Northampton’s community spirit and cohesion
September 23, 2024
Peace vigil to celebrate Northampton’s community spirit and cohesion
23 September 2024 A peace vigil to celebrate Northampton’s community spirit and cohesion is set to take place at the All Saints Church Courtyard on Friday 27 September, at 7pm. The vigil will open with remarks from Cllr James Hill, Chair of the West Northants Diverse Communities Forum, followed by words from West Northamptonshire Council’s Leader Cllr Adam Brown, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities Cllr David Smith, and Vice-Chairman Cllr Alison Eastwood. Also in attendance will be Lucy Rigby MP, Member of Parliament for Northampton North, Northampton Inter Faith Forum Deputy Ken Howlet, Northamptonshire Police Chief Constable, Ashley Tuckley, and Northants Police Fire and Crime Commissioner, Danielle Stone. Local spoken word poet and knife crime campaigner, Quinton Green, whose work and performances have been used by police forces, schools, and councils as part of youth awareness initiatives across the UK, will also be performing. The evening will conclude with a prayer and blessing led by Father Oliver Coss. “The peace vigil is an opportunity for the people of Northampton to come together to reflect on the strength of our community and the values that bind us together. “As Northampton we can show our commitment to building a more cohesive and harmonious society. Please join us on the evening of Friday 27 September, to celebrate our shared community spirit and reaffirm our dedication to creating a place where every individual feels valued and accepted." Cllr David Smith The Council is finalising its Community Cohesion Action Plan, with new community cohesion officers working to establish connections across the area. The mission is to build resilient and unified communities where all feel valued and accepted. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Visitors encouraged to share experience following festival of history and heritage
September 23, 2024
Visitors encouraged to share experience following festival of history and heritage
23 September 2024 This year’s Heritage Open Days festival in West Northamptonshire has been hailed as a success with thousands of residents and visitors enjoying free access to some of the county’s most iconic historic and cultural sites. The festival, which ran from 6 to 15 September, showcased the rich heritage of the area through a variety of open buildings, guided tours, talks, and family-friendly activities. From stately homes and museums to hidden gems and historic churches, there was something for everyone to discover. Highlights of this year’s festival included the debut of Silverstone Museum, Northampton Transport Heritage buses, fun town centre quiz trails in Northampton, Daventry, Towcester, and Brackley, and captivating performances and exhibitions across West Northamptonshire. The event was made even more special by the enthusiasm and support of local volunteers, businesses, and community groups, who helped bring the heritage of West Northants to life. As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the Heritage Open Days festival experience, West Northamptonshire Council is inviting residents and visitors to share their thoughts by participating in a Visitor Experience Survey . All feedback will help to improve future events and ensure that the Heritage Open Days festival continues to be a highlight of the year. "It was fantastic to see so many people taking part in this year’s Heritage Open Days festival, which truly celebrated the history and culture of our wonderful area. The event provides an opportunity for people of all ages to explore our local heritage and historic landmarks while enjoying the free events on offer. “We want to thank everyone who took part – from the venues and our dedicated volunteers to the residents and visitors who came to explore and celebrate the unique heritage of West Northamptonshire We welcome everyone to share their feedback so that we can continue to deliver this popular event and make next year’s festival even better!” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & Leisure at WNC The survey is open to everyone who attended Heritage Open Days and can be accessed via our consultation hub before Monday 21 October. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council Director and Monitoring Officer announces retirement
September 18, 2024
Council Director and Monitoring Officer announces retirement
18 September 2024 West Northamptonshire Council’s Director of Legal and Governance and Monitoring Officer (MO) Catherine Whitehead has been praised for her commitment to shaping the new unitary authority after announcing her retirement. Ms Whitehead played an instrumental role in setting up the Council on 1 April 2021 as part of the county’s major local government reorganisation, and has since been dedicated to embedding effective legal, democratic and governance arrangements across the organisation. Her decision to retire from the organisation for personal reasons at the end of this month has provided the Council with an opportunity to make financial savings by removing the Director of Legal and Governance post. Following Ms Whitehead’s departure, new arrangements would be made for the statutory role of Monitoring Officer, with the current Deputy Director of Legal and Governance Sarah Hall being appointed on an interim basis. The proposals will be considered by WNC’s members at their Full Council meeting on 26 September. “Catherine has been central to the successes of our Council, having ensured our organisation was ‘safe and legal’ from Day One, then continuing to work hard to develop our governance, democratic and legal services effectively. She has been an integral part of our leadership team and our work to build a positive culture and embed good practice across our organisation and will be greatly missed. “With the appointment of Sarah Hall as Interim Monitoring Officer, we know that the statutory legal duties of our authority will continue to be in safe and experienced hands and maintained at the highest standards.” Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive of West Northamptonshire Council Ms Whitehead recently gained national recognition being awarded Legal Professional of the Year by Lawyers in Local Government, leaves WNC having worked in local authorities for 40 years, first starting her career at the Greater London Council in 1984. “I would like to thank Catherine for all her dedication and commitment to our Council over the past four years. Her performance has been exemplary and her legal background, technical and managerial experience and capability has played no small part in our Council’s achievements to date. Although we will be sad to see her leave, we are also happy for her that she is fulfilling her wish for retirement to pursue new experiences.” Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council West Northamptonshire Council’s Full Council meeting takes place in the Guildhall from 5pm on Thursday, 26 September – view the agenda here . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Park's new mountain bikes provide greater opportunities to try cycling
September 19, 2024
Park's new mountain bikes provide greater opportunities to try cycling
Parks, sports and leisure 19 September 2024 Twenty new mountain bikes have been donated to Northampton Bike Park by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC). The bikes, together with a set of 20 helmets, will allow more people the opportunity to try mountain biking without the commitment of buying a bike. They have been gifted to the Park as part of the Council’s partnership with British Cycling – a two-year initiative funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF) with the aim of encouraging more people to ride and making cycling more accessible for everyone. The partnership recently saw West Northamptonshire successfully host a stage of the men’s Tour of Britain race when one of the competitors was Tom Pidcock, who won Olympic gold for Team GB in the men's cross-country mountain bike race in Paris over the summer. Communities across West Northamptonshire came out to show their support for the Tour recently, and were hopefully bitten by the cycling bug. We’re delighted to be able to gift these bikes to provide an opportunity for people who may not have previously been able to use the park to come along and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer. Cycling is good for health and wellbeing, as well as supporting the environment and being great fun for people of all ages. I encourage everyone to get down to Northampton Mountain Bike Park and experience this fantastic leisure facility. Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & Leisure Opened in September 2022, Northampton Bike Park is a joint project between WNC and Northamptonshire Sport and features a multi-user green trail, off-road mountain bike trails of varying difficulties, plus climb sections and a skills area. Situated on the site of the old Delapre golf course, the Park is well connected to the local cycle network, town centre and neighbouring housing areas, including the Norbital, National Cycle Route 6, and is accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Cycling is a great way to be active and the donation of the bikes is a step forward in helping even more people to enjoy the bike park and the trails. We run a programme of courses for beginners to the sport, being able to offer a bike as part of the package opens the opportunity to try Mountain Biking without the commitment of buying a bike. The donation also means we can invite local schools and community groups to come and try the facilities in pre-arranged visits. Martin Barnwell, Strategic Director, Operations, at NSport Find out more on the Northampton Bike Park website Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Discover what treasures you can uncover at Northampton’s Market, reimagined
September 20, 2024
Discover what treasures you can uncover at Northampton’s Market, reimagined
20 September 2024 Northampton Market is now open at the town’s historic market square as it returned today (20 September), following the area undergoing extensive regeneration to provide a renewed space for residents, businesses, and traders. The town is home to one of the longest running outdoor markets in Europe and the reopening of the market from 20 September is a significant milestone in the transformation of the town, and forms part of the phased opening of the regeneration scheme. The wider rejuvenated market square will open to the public on 19 October with family-friendly festivities taking place on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October. Watch: Cllr Dan Lister at the re-opening of the Market: Traders return to Northampton Market Square As part of the extensive refurbishment traders have access to bespoke, fixed stalls as well as pop up stalls. These modern fixed stalls that benefit from electricity water and lighting, have been customised to meet the needs of traders and provide a safe and secure place to sell their goods. A whole host of products and services can be discovered at Northampton’s historic market square including fresh flowers and plants, fruit and vegetables, a butcher, digital print services, ethically sourced Ghanaian crafts and a delicatessen offering locally made produce. This is complemented with services such as a key cutting and watch repairs, bicycle repair and small electricals sales and repairs. If you are looking to treat yourself there will be a nail salon or you can sample some of the delicious takeaway foods on offer. Watch: Council Leader Cllr Adam Brown at the reopening of the Market: Council Leader Adam Brown at the reopening of the Market Once the wider project fully opens from 19 October it will be enhanced by the new shoe-inspired water feature, a dedicated events space and improved landscaping which will create a welcoming environment. “We are delighted to have welcomed traders and local business owners back to our historic market square. Visitors to the market can see first-hand the diverse mix of stalls and traders and discover the wide-range of goods and services on offer – come and prepare to be surprised. We are always keen to hear from local entrepreneurs who are looking to take the first step and showcase their business at Northampton’s market, so please do reach out if you’ve got an idea you’d like to discuss. “Following the opening of the market, we look forward to inviting the community to come and join us for the official opening weekend on 19 and 20 October. With a wide range of zones for everyone to enjoy, including live music, local food and heritage to celebrate the history of our town, there will be something on offer for all the family. I’d encourage residents to save the date and keep their eye out for more information coming soon.” Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC If you have a great business or business idea and want to become part of Northampton’s rich heritage – get in touch to register your interest by contacting [email protected] . National developer, STACK, is also set to transform the vacant Market Walk shopping centre which sits on the Market Square into a vibrant new leisure, entertainment, and social community hub. This will be a vital part of expanding the night-time economy and amplifying the many reasons to visit the town. Find out more about Northampton market . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Vulcan Works shortlisted for a hattrick of esteemed local business awards
September 19, 2024
Vulcan Works shortlisted for a hattrick of esteemed local business awards
19 September 2024 Vulcan Works which offers unique office space, business support, hotdesking and coworking opportunities at the heart of Northampton's Cultural Quarter has already won a flurry of awards since it launched last year. Now it has been named as a finalist in three separate categories of the prestigious Northamptonshire Business Excellence Awards 2024 , which celebrate the very best of the county’s business community. Vulcan Works is up for the Land and Development Award, which recognises projects that have had a significant impact on the Northamptonshire landscape, community or economy and where consideration for the environment and innovative thinking have combined to have a positive impact. The centre is also shortlisted for Community Project of the Year, which puts a spotlight on projects which have had a remarkable impact on the local community, and for Venue of the Year, which praises innovation, success and a unique offering. Since Vulcan Works opened in spring 2023, the dedicated team have supported numerous fledgling businesses and startups in the digital and creative industries, not just with office, workshop and coworking spaces, but through organising networking events and offering nurturing business growth support. They have also partnered with Barclays and NatWest, as well as local business support organisations like Growth Hub, Careers Hub, The Marketing Meet Up, Northampton BID, NNBN and Digital Northants to offer practical business support, networking and workshops. “The Vulcan Works is a fantastic example of regeneration we’re delivering as Northampton. This space has been transformed for a vacant building to a thriving business community. To have this work recognised by being shortlisted in three categories at the NBEA awards is fantastic. We look forward to celebrating all the winners and shortlists at the awards in a few weeks’ time.” Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for not just one but three awards. The recognition is very much appreciated by the entire team, who work tirelessly to provide this unique and much needed offering to the local business community. “We are immensely proud of all that we have achieved in such a short space of time and of all the businesses we have helped to support. The centre is already a thriving creative community, and this is just the beginning! “We look forward to the awards ceremony in November and wish all the finalists the very best of luck.” Centre Manager at Vulcan Works, Garrick Hurter The Northamptonshire Business Excellence Awards will be held on Thursday 7 November at Northamptonshire County Cricket Ground in Abingdon Avenue, Northampton. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Residents invited to explore Northamptonshire’s rich history as part of unique exhibition
September 20, 2024
Residents invited to explore Northamptonshire’s rich history as part of unique exhibition
20 September 2024 Residents are invited to get involved in the curation of a new major exhibition exploring and celebrating Northamptonshire’s rich past at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG). A History of Northamptonshire in 100 Objects is set to open in September 2025 and will cover an extensive period; from when life first appeared on Earth millions of years ago, up to the present day. The exhibition will be the culmination of West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) three-year Arts Council England-funded Histories of Northamptonshire project which involves collaborating closely with individuals, groups, and communities across the county to celebrate and share Northamptonshire’s heritage. The exhibition will highlight 100 objects selected by guest curators and the museum, providing a wide-ranging exploration of the people, places, events, and items that have shaped the county’s identity. NMAG is seeking Guest Curators to help choose the objects and stories that will be featured in the exhibition and work alongside the museum team to research, present, and tell the story behind each object, with their contributions not only forming part of the exhibition but also featuring in an accompanying book, website, app, and podcast series. “This is an exciting opportunity for guest curators from across Northamptonshire to get involved and help create this exhibition which will highlight our county’s rich history and heritage. We want to involve local individuals, groups, and communities in the selection and storytelling process to create a truly inclusive and representative celebration of our fantastic area. “This project not only highlights the significant events and figures that have shaped our identity but also fosters a deeper connection between our residents and their shared history. We look forward to seeing the diverse perspectives and stories that will emerge from this collaborative effort.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & Leisure at WNC Guest Curators can be individuals, groups, or societies proposing an object for inclusion. No prior historical knowledge or expertise is required, and the objects can represent any period of Northamptonshire's history, from ancient times to the present day. If you are interested in becoming a guest curator, selecting an object, and telling its story for the exhibition, or if you'd like to learn more about the many exciting elements of the Histories of Northamptonshire project, visit the museum’s website or email [email protected] for more information. The deadline for guest curator submissions is 7 October 2024. Submission forms can be requested via email or completed via the online form . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Last chance for free energy-saving upgrades for eligible West Northants homeowners
September 19, 2024
Last chance for free energy-saving upgrades for eligible West Northants homeowners
19 September 2024 Residents who have an annual base income of less than £36,000 could be missing out on free energy-saving updates to heat their homes and save money. Those eligible have until the end of September to register for the Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) to ensure any approved works are installed before the scheme ends, which could include insulation, solar panels, low carbon heating systems and more. The retrofitting scheme is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and managed by the Greater South East Net Zero Hub (GSENZH) and West Northamptonshire Council (WNC). “This crucial funding gives low-income households the opportunity to make their homes more energy-efficient, helping them cut costs and tackle fuel poverty. I would urge people to check if they are eligible and apply ahead of the end of September to save on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.” Cllr Rebecca Breese, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste To be eligible for free upgrades, households must have a combined annual income of less than £36,000 (including benefits) or live in a specific postcode area, their properties must not be heated through mains gas, and they should be considered hard-to-heat homes. “Retrofitting homes is an essential step in decarbonising our communities. “The free measures available for eligible homes will help keep residents warm, healthy and cut their bills. Please check your eligibility and apply before it’s too late.” Graeme Heron, Energy Efficiency Programme Lead at GSENZH An initial survey will determine which energy-saving measures could be suitable for each property. Work is completed on a first-come, first-served basis and homeowners should apply by the end of September to allow for works to be completed before the end of the scheme in March 2025. Homeowners may be able to register their interest after September but doing so as soon as possible is the best way to ensure there is enough time to receive upgrades before the end of the scheme. To check if you’re eligible and apply, visit www.hugapply.co.uk or call delivery partners Agility Eco on 0800 107 8883. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
It’s time to apply for your child’s school place for September 2025
September 18, 2024
It’s time to apply for your child’s school place for September 2025
18 September 2024 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 2025 intake. Parents and carers can apply for a place in reception if their child will be four years old on or before 31 August 2025. The closing date for applications for places in reception (and year 3 at junior school) is 15 January 2025 at midnight . The closing date for applications for Year 7 places is 31 October 2024 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 – 3 March 2025 for secondary places and 16 April 2025 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 . “It is a big decision choosing the preferred school places for your children, whether it is for reception, year 3 or year 7 – all just as important but equally exciting for your child / children in the next step of their education journey. “If you are unsure of how the process works, or are not sure where to start please do look at the information available on our website.” Cllr Fiona Baker, WNC’s Cabinet member for children, families and education 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. Find out more about applying for a school place in West Northamptonshire and to submit an application . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
HMICFRS report highlights good work – but improvement needed in some areas
September 19, 2024
HMICFRS report highlights good work – but improvement needed in some areas
Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson has thanked Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) for their report, published today (Wednesday 18 September), which praised the “clear commitment of staff and leaders to improve” – but said that the Service needs to push on with planned improvements more quickly. Nikki said that she was pleased with the progress Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has made, both in the way it keeps people safe and in the way it supports firefighters and staff. She said that plans are in place to tackle the areas highlighted by HMICFRS that need to be better. The HMICFRS inspection took place between March and April this year. The Inspectors said that “there are some good foundations in place and sound financial planning” – and that it is important that NFRS now moves ahead with those plans. The Inspectors found that NFRS is good at protecting people through fire regulations, using the full range of enforcement powers and working with businesses to protect the public. The Service was praised for the way it responds to major and multi-agency incidents and works with partners. The Inspectors singled out the work of the Joint Operations Team, a unique collaboration between Fire and Police to ensure both services can operate effectively together to keep the public safe. Financial and business planning were also very highly rated, with the Inspectors highlighting the ‘notable practice’ in how the joint Procurement Team is delivering efficiencies, and how the joint Digital team is working to support future change, as areas of best practice for other Services to follow. However, the Inspectors said that there is still work needed to ensure firefighters and staff across the Service do more to prevent fires and other risks. They also said that improvements are still needed in people and culture, making sure that leaders and staff do all they can to promote the right values and to improve diversity. Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson said: “One of my absolute priorities since I joined Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is to ensure our staff feel safe, valued, respected and equal. I am disappointed that we haven’t made enough progress in creating an inclusive culture. “HMICFRS acknowledges we have a great programme, called Serving with Pride, which is making a difference to our culture. We have put training in place for managers at all levels to strengthen their skills, so they play their part in making this Service a better place to work. We have independent, confidential lines to report inappropriate behaviour and we are more transparent in the way we deal with misconduct, to give staff confidence to come forward. “Cultural change is a long journey, and I will provide the leadership this Service needs to carry on with our improvement plans.” Nikki said that she was pleased that Inspectors recognised the work done to keep the people of Northamptonshire safe. She added: “This report recognises our commitment to public safety. Our response times are better now than they have been at any time in the last three years, and good financial management and planning mean more firefighters and appliances are available to help when they are needed. We continually monitor and review our attendance times. For example, in the last quarter, we reached highest risk incidents involving a fire in nine minutes and 30 seconds on average. “Our workforce plan means we know when we need to recruit full-time firefighters, so we are always able to crew our fire engines. Like every Service in the country, we focus on the availability of our on-call firefighters every day and we always need more, so I encourage anyone who lives close to their local station to consider joining us. “I want to thank all our firefighters and staff for what they do. I know they will work hard to make the improvements needed to become a truly outstanding Fire and Rescue Service.” Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone added: “The commitment of Northamptonshire’s firefighters and staff has endlessly impressed me: they keep the county safe from a full range of risks and I am pleased the HMICFRS have recognised the excellent work they do. “I expect to see even more emphasis on work to create a better culture – everyone must feel safe and included. “I will support the Chief Fire Officer and her leadership team to give the Service the stability it needs to push on with the improvements that I expect to see as I put together my first public safety plan for Northamptonshire. The skills of our firefighters and staff will be at the heart of that plan to make the public feel safer in their communities and help protect them from risk. “I will also keep on fighting for better funding for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service to support us as we work towards providing an even better service to the public.” The full report can be viewed here :
Farmers urged to be vigilant to avoid hay bale and field fires
September 19, 2024
Farmers urged to be vigilant to avoid hay bale and field fires
Farmers across Northamptonshire are being urged to be vigilant and take steps to reduce the risk of fire. Due to recent dry conditions, foliage and shrubbery are very dry and it doesn’t take long for a fire to spread and become significant. Despite the number of both deliberate and accidental fires decreasing since last year, the Service is still being called to a significant number of hay bale and field fires, as well as fly-tipping and bonfires. Farmers and small holding landowners, when harvesting, should keep bale stacks out of sight where possible and at least 10 metres apart, and keep bales away from roadsides and not stacked under electricity cables. Farmers are being asked to consider the risk of fire occurring and what dangers this may present and take efforts to remove or reduce any fire hazards to keep themselves and their property safe. When choosing where to stack bales: Select a site away from any potential fire hazards and sources of ignition, and not near buildings If there is public access to the field via a footpath etc, consider providing signage to warn people to keep away Do not build stacks over underground services such as gas pipes or water mains and fire hydrants Do not work or build a stack under or within 10 metres of overhead power lines They should also take the following fire precautions: Multiple stacks should be sited at least 10 metres away from each other and any nearby buildings to prevent fire spread and to allow safe manoeuvring between them. However, you may wish to consult your insurance company and local authority for advice Avoid siting stacks near public access and roads, as these are vulnerable to fires from discarded cigarettes, littered glass, and deliberate arson Keep bale elevator engines free of straw and other debris to avoid causing a fire Do not allow smoking near stacks Andy Evans, of the joint Arson Task Force, said: “We are asking that farmers and rural landowners take care and reduce further risk of these fires. Due to the dryness of the surrounding land, fires involving hay bales can spread out of control quickly, so it is vital that we work together to reduce the risk of them starting at all.” Farmers that are concerned about fire setting on their land should contact the Arson Task Force by emailing arsontaskforce@northants.pnn.police.uk A risk intelligence visit may be undertaken with the potential of increasing measures to prevent further attacks. We are asking landowners to be vigilant around their farms as well as surrounding rural and wooded areas. Please report any suspicious activity to the Police 101 or Crimestoppers. When in the event of an actual fire, dial 999 immediately.
Plans to invest over £9.5 million in housing set to move forward
September 18, 2024
Plans to invest over £9.5 million in housing set to move forward
18 September 2024 Plans to invest over £9.5million on building new homes that will tackle pressures on the local housing market and an increased demand for temporary accommodation are set to move forward. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has successfully secured £4.089 million from the third round of the Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF), which it will spend alongside £5.488 million of capital funding to deliver over 30 properties over the next two years. The properties will provide immediate support for homeless families needing temporary accommodation or resettlement while contributing to the Council’s general housing stock in the medium to long term, ensuring that these assets continue to serve the community for years to come. The Council previously delivered the full targets for rounds one and two of the LAHF funding, acquiring 40 properties between 2023 and 2024 with a grant underspend of approximately £850,000. "This funding represents a significant investment in the future of our community. By expanding our stock of quality temporary and resettlement housing, we are not only addressing the immediate needs of vulnerable families but also ensuring that these assets contribute to the long-term sustainability of our local housing market. “This initiative is a key part of our strategy to support those in need, reduce the financial burden on the Council and our reliance on expensive nightly let accommodation, and provide a stable foundation for residents to build their lives by providing sustainable housing solutions which will support the Council’s housing and homelessness responsibilities for the remainder of the properties’ lifetime.” Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing at West Northamptonshire Council A report to move forward with the LAHF funding was discussed by councillors at WNC’S Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 17 September and will now go on for further consideration at Full Council on Thursday, 26 September. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Northamptonshire Seeks Dynamic Leader for Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) Chair
September 18, 2024
Northamptonshire Seeks Dynamic Leader for Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) Chair
18 September 2024 Local partners are excited to announce the launch of a recruitment campaign to appoint a Chair to drive forward the establishment and delivery of a Northamptonshire LVEP. This pivotal role offers a unique opportunity for an experienced and passionate leader to drive forward the region's tourism strategy and enhance the local visitor economy. The LVEP Chair will play a key role in positioning Northamptonshire as a top destination for both domestic and international visitors. By bringing together local businesses, government entities, and community groups, the Chair will lead efforts to showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant events. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in tourism, hospitality, or a related field, with proven leadership experience. They will be tasked with developing and implementing strategic initiatives that will attract more visitors to the area, support local businesses, and contribute to the sustainable growth of Northamptonshire’s economy. “This county boasts some of the best attractions in the world and we intend to work collaboratively to ensure that everyone knows that Northamptonshire is a must visit destination! Plus, we will work collaboratively to support and nurture our local attractions and stakeholders, to create more jobs and to attract more inward investment into this industry across Northamptonshire” Cllr Daniel Lister, West Northamptonshire Council Cabinet Member for Local Economy “We are looking for a visionary leader who can unite stakeholders across the region and champion Northamptonshire as a must-visit destination “The LVEP Chair will be instrumental in shaping the future of our local visitor economy, ensuring it thrives for years to come” Cllr Helen Howell, North Northamptonshire Council Deputy Leader Responsibilities of the LVEP Chair will include: Overseeing the implementation of the comprehensive Northamptonshire Tourism Strategy Collaborating with local and national stakeholders to promote Northamptonshire's attractions Enhancing marketing efforts to raise the region’s profile Supporting local businesses in maximizing the benefits of tourism Ensuring sustainable growth of the visitor economy through innovative practices This position represents an exciting challenge for a dynamic leader eager to make a significant impact on Northamptonshire’s future. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with a diverse range of partners, including tourism boards, local councils, cultural organisations, VCSE’s and businesses, to create a thriving visitor economy that benefits everyone in the region. Applications for the LVEP Chair position are now open, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply by 5pm, on Tuesday 24 September. For more information on the role and how to apply, please visit Discover Northamptonshire or contact [email protected] Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Market returns to Northampton's historic Market Square This Friday
September 18, 2024
Market returns to Northampton's historic Market Square This Friday
18 September 2024 Come and see the delights on offer at Northampton's market, reimagined this Friday as traders new and old return to the historic square. From hosting royalty to horse fairs and live markets, the market square has been home to markets of all varieties for centuries. This Friday (20 September) it is set to enter a new chapter as the traders return to their new fixed permanent stalls and high-quality pop-up stalls. Here are some of the traders which will be offering their services at the market, be sure to head to market square to find out more: HT Fruit & Veg Tony Jones Florist Ltd Phone Accessories M&G Butchers L J B Rutherfords Dennis Gifts Ltd MK Bags Beach Hut Nails Studio Northampton Cheese Company Ltd T/A Artisan Collective NN Northampton Film Festival Ltd t/a The Creative Place Tiptoe Ventures Funkys Ciros Place Fryin' Brian Vakani Bikes Northampton D.Sullivan Jewellery Quickshop Tony's Book Samosa Corner MK Cosmopolitan Crystal jewellery Unigen Terrys Football Memorabilia Sweetie Collection Market Hub Azkoos Home Accessories There will be a range of different traders at the market each day, so please visit the market to see first-hand the goods and services on offer that day. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Nominate your West Northants Male Role Models
September 17, 2024
Nominate your West Northants Male Role Models
17 September 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is calling on residents to nominate the men and boys who have made significant contributions to their communities as part of the West Northamptonshire Male Role Model Awards 2024. These awards are designed to raise awareness around men’s wellbeing and to celebrate those who inspire others and have a positive impact on the lives of people in their communities or workplaces. The Council is seeking nominations for men and boys who have been inspirational in the broadest sense. Whether they have supported their community, achieved remarkable goals, or positively influenced the lives of others, WNC wants to hear their stories. Nominations open on Monday, 23 September, and close on Wednesday, 23 October. The finalists will be celebrated at an awards ceremony on Thursday, 21 November, coinciding with International Men's Day 2024, at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery. “We are excited to launch the Male Role Model Awards 2024, which not only highlight the important contributions of men and boys in our communities but also promote a positive conversation around men’s wellbeing. “International Men's Day is a key opportunity to recognise and celebrate the men who are making a difference, and we look forward to hearing about the inspiring stories from across West Northamptonshire.” Cllr David Smith, WNC's Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities International Men's Day (IMD) is celebrated globally, focusing on themes such as enhancing the wellbeing of men and boys, promoting positive discussions about masculinity, and raising awareness of charities that support men’s health and wellbeing. For more information about the WNC Male Role Model Awards 2024 and to make a nomination, please visit Male Role Model of the Year 2024 . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
24-hour mental health text message service launched in Northamptonshire
September 18, 2024
24-hour mental health text message service launched in Northamptonshire
18 September 2024 Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) along with North and West Northamptonshire Councils have partnered with charity Mental Health Innovations to offer free, confidential and 24/7 mental health support to those across the county through the charity’s text messaging support service Shout. The partnership has been funded through North and West Northamptonshire Public Health services and ICB to provide this innovative digital offer for anyone in Northamptonshire to enable them to access 24-hour mental health support, 365 days a year from their mobile phone. The service launched on Monday 2 September and people in the county can text the word ‘IMATTER’ to 85258 to be connected to a trained Shout Volunteer. The service is open around the clock and can help with issues such as anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression and suicidal thoughts. The conversation, which takes place entirely by text message, aims to help the texter reach a calmer place with a plan to move forward. It will also signpost them to further support available locally. “Providing mental health services which meet the needs of our communities is vitally important, that is why we’re proud to be a part of this partnership and launch the SHOUT text messaging service in Northamptonshire. By providing digital solutions which people of all ages can access from their mobile phone, we hope to increase the number of people accessing services and receiving the support they need.” Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at WNC “I am pleased that we are working with Shout to give free access to their text support service. This makes our local crisis support more accessible for everyone, especially important now when many people are struggling mentally due to the cost-of-living crisis. By partnering with Shout on this service, we can offer residents free mental health support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, when people need it the most.” Councillor Gill Mercer, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing “Ensuring local people who need it can receive timely access to mental health support is one of our key priorities. The SHOUT service compliments the services we already have available across our county that support health and wellbeing. The service is open around the clock and can help with issues such as anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression and suicidal thoughts so I would urge anyone experiencing difficulties with their mental health to consider using this service.” Dr Janine Elson, Chief Medical Officer, Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board Shout is a free, confidential and anonymous service, designed to provide people with in-the-moment support. Texting Shout does not appear on phone bills and all messages are confidential unless there is concern about someone’s safety. Shout is available and free in the United Kingdom. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Progress made on sustainability efforts with bronze iiE accreditation
September 16, 2024
Progress made on sustainability efforts with bronze iiE accreditation
16 September 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has continued to make progress in its sustainability journey by retaining a national environmental accreditation. WNC is pleased to have retained the Bronze Award accreditation with the Investors in the Environment scheme (iiE) following an independent audit, showing its commitment to reducing its environmental impact. iiE is a national environmental accreditation scheme designed to help organisations save time and money, reduce their impact on the environment, and get recognition for their progress. The Council has worked to improve on the foundations put in place through achieving the bronze award last year for the first time, with it being less than four years since the authority was formed. Over the past 12 months, WNC has continued to make strides towards meeting its sustainability objectives, including: Publishing its first Sustainability Report, setting out priorities against the UN Sustainable Development Goals Focussing on embedding sustainable thinking into all job roles, projects and policies rather than it being looked at as an addition to or adaptation Continuing to grow a sustainability staff network and councillors net zero action group to guide, influence and involve communities, colleagues and partners Refreshing the online Sustainable West Northamptonshire information hub and social media channels to promote, share and encourage good practice Actively supporting staff with additional training, including members of the Sustainability Team undergoing a Pathways to Net Zero course Consulting the public on a draft electric vehicle infrastructure strategy that will be published in early 2025 to support the increase in EVs Participating in the national No Mow May campaign for the first time, leaving areas of green spaces to grow naturally in a bid to increase biodiversity. “I am delighted that we have retained our iiE Bronze Accreditation. This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to cutting emissions and meeting the target of net zero across West Northants by 2045. “We are dedicated to making changes that will have a positive impact on the environment and the lives of our residents, to make a difference today and in the future. We are taking steps in the right direction and are keen to continue building on the work that has already been done. “There are simple ways in which everyone can help to tackle the climate challenge in their everyday lives and probably do without thinking about and one very important way of doing so is working together.” Cllr Rebecca Breese, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste and Recycling Find out more about Sustainability in West Northants. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Calling all local organisations: Join us in celebrating the reopening of Northampton Market Square
September 13, 2024
Calling all local organisations: Join us in celebrating the reopening of Northampton Market Square
13 September 2024 Local organisations, businesses, charities and community groups across West Northamptonshire are invited to be part of the upcoming grand reopening of Northampton’s historic Market Square on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October. This special event is more than just a celebration of the completion of regeneration works - it’s an opportunity to showcase the incredible community spirit that makes Northampton such a unique place to live, work, visit, and thrive. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) are looking for enthusiastic local organisations to get involved in various ways to make this event a true reflection of the community talent, generosity, and collaborative spirit we have here in our area. Some of the ways organisations can get involved include: Performing at the event: If you are part of a dance club, children’s group, or any performing arts organisation, we’d love to see your talents on display. Whether it’s a dance performance, a musical act, or a creative display, this is your chance to entertain and inspire the crowds. Promoting your charity: This event is an excellent platform for local charities to share their mission with the public. Whether it’s a running club doing a lap around town, a karate demonstration, or a talk on supporting vulnerable people, we want to help you connect with those who may be inspired to get involved. Donating to the event: We are seeking donations of local produce or items to be raffled off in hampers, with proceeds going to the Chairman’s Charities. This is a fantastic way to showcase your products and support a good cause. Sponsoring a hamper: Help us make a difference in the lives of local residents by sponsoring a hamper filled with household items, Christmas essentials, or other thoughtful gifts. A range of sponsorship options are available and your generosity will be acknowledged throughout the event. Screen advertising: Promote your brand or service to thousands of attendees by sponsoring a video advertisement on the big screen at the event and reach a wide audience while supporting the community celebration. The thousands of people attending across both days are the perfect audience! "The reopening of Northampton’s Market Square is a significant milestone, not only marking the completion of the first of several major regeneration works in the area, but as the beginning of a new chapter for our town and county. “We are eager to collaborate with local organisations to make this event a true celebration of community spirit. This is an opportunity for everyone to come together, showcase their talents, and contribute to the future of West Northants. “Let’s all make this a memorable event that benefits everyone and reflects the best of what West Northamptonshire has to offer." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure WNC If your organisation would like to get involved, please contact [email protected] by Friday 27 September to express your interest and discuss tailored sponsorship packages. Together, we can create an unforgettable event that celebrates the heart of our community and the bright future ahead for West Northamptonshire. For more information about the event, please visit the WNC website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?