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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.Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture, and Leisure at WNC“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.”
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.Frank Beckley, Founder of Tiptoe Ventures located on Northampton Market Square, said:"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."
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.
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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
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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!”Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire CouncilThis 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."
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.Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Managing Director, Sarah MasseyWith 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!”
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.
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21 October 2024
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.Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure“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.”
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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.Cllr David Smith, WNC's Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities“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."
“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.
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