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15 May 2025

Northampton town centre’s ‘gold standard’ evening and night-time economy has been honoured with a top international award for the sixth year in a row.
It was confirmed yesterday that Northampton has retained the prestigious Purple Flag award which celebrates places that create thriving, vibrant night-time economies that are safe for visitors, workers and residents.
Across the globe only 90 locations – including world-renowned tourist destinations – have been awarded the Purple Flag which is similar to the Blue Flag scheme for beaches and aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between 5pm and 5am.
In addition to Northampton, seven areas are celebrating receiving a Full Renewal accreditation, and four areas are celebrating receiving an Interim Renewal accreditation.
Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID) worked closely with multiple partners, including West Northamptonshire Council, West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership and the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner to successfully retain the Purple Flag status.
“The Purple Flag award is only presented to towns and cities with gold standard evening and night-time economies.Mark Mullen, operations manager for Northampton Town Centre BID“To have received this accolade for six years in a row is an incredible achievement for Northampton and is fantastic recognition for our excellent night-time economy businesses and the multiple partners which have worked so hard to improve safety in the town centre.
“This news comes at an exciting time for Northampton as in the next few weeks we’re due to see the completion of the £5 million Abington Street and Fish Street regeneration project which will make these key areas more attractive and accessible for both visitors and residents.
“Looking further ahead we’re also thrilled that STACK is opening its first venue in the Midlands in the former Market Walk shopping centre which will feature independent street food outlets, bars, a space for interactive games and a main stage for live music and entertainment.”
The £12 million STACK scheme is being funded by an £8 million investment from STACK and a £4.2 million investment from West Northamptonshire Council.
Receiving Purple Flag accreditation has been shown to boost local economies, increase tourism, and improve the overall quality of life for residents by providing more night-time entertainment and social opportunities.
The award judges were impressed with the revamp of Northampton’s Market Square, which has enhanced the area with its alfresco dining, public art and water features. They also found that inclusive events like the town’s free Music Festival and lively Diwali celebrations had brought the community together.
Other key successes in Northampton’s submission included its focus on night-time venue safety initiatives such as staff upskilling and awareness programs like Ask for Angela. The introduction of the Safer Routes Home initiative, which provides University of Northampton students with a designated and safer path home from the town centre to the Waterside Campus, was also singled out for praise.
“It’s fantastic to see Northampton once again being awarded Purple Flag status. Since its first application in 2018, the town has continued to go from strength to strength. The passion and dedication shown by the partnership is a true reflection of what the Purple Flag stands for – vibrant, safe, and thriving town and city centres after dark.”Ojay McDonald, Chief Executive of the Association of Town & City Management
“Retaining the Purple Flag for the sixth consecutive year is a fantastic achievement and reflects the commitment of our partners and local businesses to ensuring Northampton is a safe, welcoming, and vibrant place to enjoy a night out.”Cllr Mark Arnull, from West Northamptonshire Council
For more details visit www.discovernorthampton.co.uk
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16 May 2025

West Northamptonshire Council is setting off on an exciting new chapter for delivering and improving local public services with a new Leader and Cabinet members.
Following on from this month’s elections – the second to have taken place since the unitary was formed four years ago – Councillors from the majority party Reform UK have been appointed to WNC’s political leadership positions, with Cllr Mark Arnull elected as Leader of the Council at last night’s Annual Meeting (Thursday, 15 May).
Cllr Arnull has appointed a 10-strong Cabinet, each responsible for overseeing their own portfolio of specific council services, to drive forward and deliver upon the new administration’s priorities for local communities.
Cllr James Petter takes on the role of Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & Leisure.
“I’m really looking forward to working with a Cabinet that has a broad range of experience across all portfolios, real grassroots knowledge of the local areas and issues people are facing and a palpable energy and enthusiasm for doing things differently and better.Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council“It’s so important we hit the ground running to deliver upon the mandate we’ve been given by the electorate and in the coming days we will be reviewing what we have inherited from the previous administration and working hard to change and improve local services for the benefit of everyone.
“It’s our aim to be highly visible within our communities, getting out and about as much as possible talking to local people about the issues affecting them. We’re looking forward to getting stuck in and making a real difference to people’s lives.”
“As we embark upon our Council’s second term as a unitary authority, we all agree that West Northamptonshire is a place of big ambitions. I look forward to working closely together with Cllr Arnull and the new Cabinet on progressing the future priorities to fulfil our area’s true potential.”Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive of West Northamptonshire Council
The full Cabinet arrangements are as follows:
Cllr Mark Arnull – Leader of the Council
Born and raised in Daventry and trained at Northampton College, Mark went on to forge a successful career in international major events, working with organising committees and government departments to deliver mass feeding operations. Mark is an ambassador for small business in the community and champions youth initiatives that help young people enter the world of business.
Cllr James Petter – Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & Leisure.
James has lived in Hunsbury, Northampton for over 30 years where he raised his family. He has a strong business background with more than 40 years of experience across a range of sectors including retail and logistics, having also run his own business. Placing West Northamptonshire on the map as a prime destination for visitors, businesses and investment will be a key focus for James in his new remit
Cllr Kathryn Ann Shaw – Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education.
A lifelong Northampton resident, Kathryn brings extensive experience in therapeutic intervention and community engagement, with a professional background in hypnotherapy, EMDR, and trauma-informed care, and a particular focus on early intervention, mental health, and innovative educational support. Her appointment reflects a deep commitment to reshaping care systems to better serve vulnerable families and promote long-term resilience.
Cllr Andrew Last – Cabinet Member for HR & Corporate Services.
Andrew fell for Brackley and its surrounding countryside while serving at RAF Greatworth. Leaving the RAF, Andrew returned to the area with his wife, and family. With a successful career in Information Technology, Cyber Security and Project Management, Andrew brings a wealth of expertise to the table and an ability to cultivate relationships with stakeholders at all levels will be invaluable in representing the interests of residents and ensuring their voices are heard.
Cllr John Slope – Cabinet Member for Finance.
John moved to the West Northants when he was four, initially living in Duston and then Moulton for over 40 years. His extensive career in the sales and logistics sectors included managing operations and running his own logistics consultancy, with strong financial knowledge. John is looking forward to focusing on tackling local government’s ongoing financial challenges and delivering value for money for West Northants residents.
Cllr Laura Couse – Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health & Regulatory Services
Laura has lived in Northampton for over 20 years with a strong background in the health and wellbeing sector, running her own clinical therapy business helping people struggling with lymphoedema and lipoedema. She has also worked previously as a live-in carer providing palliative care, and also runs a local support group for people with lymphoedema and lipoedema. Laura is passionate about working to bridge the gaps in health and wellbeing services and further developing community and health cross working.
Cllr Richard Butler – Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport.
Brackley born and raised, Richard has served as a town councillor for 10 years and looks forward to his new role representing residents on WNC. He has more than 50 years experience in transport sectors including the motor industry and container shipping, as well as sales and business acquisition.
Cllr Nigel Stansfield – Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste
Father-of-three Nigel lives in Spinney Hill and has been a West Northants residents for over 35 years. He has previously served on Grange Park parish Council for 10 years and has a particular interest in environmental affairs, planning to focus in his remit at WNC on tackling issues like littering, flytipping and graffiti and encouraging a pride of place ethos within local communities.
Cllr Thomas Manning – Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities.
Thomas is Northampton born and raised, having also studied at Moulton College and the University of Northampton. For the past 18 years he has worked on housing, commercial and infrastructure projects from the planning stages through to completion.
Cllr Charlie Hastie – Cabinet Member for Housing
Charlie lives in Moreton Pinkney having returned to West Northants 12 years ago having lived abroad in places including the USA and Canada, where he holds dual citizenship. Currently self-employed in the sports branding sector, his extensive career includes a City background and working in the Metropolitan Police. Charlie is particularly passionate about ending homelessness and making sure housing, planning and welfare services work together so there is an effective safety net for the most vulnerable within our communities.
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16 May 2025

West Northamptonshire Council has elected Councillor Alison Eastwood as its new Chairman for 2025/26.
Cllr Eastwood received the ceremonial chains of office from outgoing Chairman Jo Gilford at last night’s Annual Council meeting (15 May 2025). Cllr Peter York was appointed as Vice-Chairman.
With a diverse career spanning theatre, business, and public service, Cllr Eastwood brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to her local community. She was first elected to represent Silverstone Ward four years ago and now serves as ward councillor for Rural South Northamptonshire.
Cllr Eastwood’s career has taken her from the stage to the boardroom, with notable achievements in theatre management, interior design, and real estate consulting across Los Angeles, London, and South West Northamptonshire. Her deep commitment to public service was inspired by her mother, the founder of the Listening Library for the Blind, and has seen her contribute to a wide range of community projects, both here and in the USA.
Before her election as a councillor, Cllr Eastwood served on the Beverly Hills School Board and worked with various charitable organisations, including the Red Cross and initiatives supporting children and adults in need.
Since returning to the UK, Cllr Eastwood has dedicated herself to the people of West Northamptonshire, holding key roles including the Deputy Culture Lead, and sits on the boards of 78 Derngate, the Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust (NMPAT), and the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery.
The Chairman is a non-political, civic role that represents the council and West Northamptonshire at various events, including official functions, and chairs council meetings to ensure they are conducted in line with the Constitution.
"I am incredibly proud to take on the role of Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council. It’s a privilege to serve the community that has welcomed me so warmly over the years. As Chairman, I look forward to meeting and supporting people from all walks of life, whether through attending local events or shining a light on the vital work being done by charities such as NMPAT and Maggie’s Cancer Support. I am looking forward to supporting Women’s Rugby World Cup and commemorating the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton.Cllr Eastwood"This is a year of opportunity to celebrate the incredible diversity and strength of our community and to continue building pride in our communities. My aim is simple—to listen, connect, and work together to make a lasting impact. Whether it’s a charity event, a neighbourhood initiative, or a community gathering, I will be there to support and champion what matters most to the people of West Northamptonshire."
“I’m delighted to welcome Cllr Eastwood into the role of Chairman, the chains of office are in very capable hands. Cllr Eastwood brings experience, energy and a clear commitment to the role representing all our communities and her appointment reflects how all councillors are united in promoting civic pride across our area.”Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council
As part of her role, Cllr Eastwood looks forward to meeting with local businesses, schools, community and voluntary groups, and organisations. If you would like to invite the Chairman to an event, please contact the Chairman’s Secretary at [email protected].
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14 May 2025

The steel frame for Northamptonshire’s new public mortuary has now been completed marking a major milestone in the construction of the facility at Riverside Business Park in Northampton.
Due to be completed in autumn 2025, the new mortuary will be a purpose-built facility designed to deliver the highest standards of care and compassion during some of life’s most difficult moments serving communities across Northamptonshire and surrounding areas.
It will provide modern, dignified spaces for families, including private viewing and identification areas, ensuring a respectful and supportive experience for those dealing with the loss of a loved one.
The facility will also bring key services under one roof, simplifying processes and reducing the need for travel between different sites. This will not only make it easier for families by reducing delays but will also improve efficiency for funeral directors, healthcare professionals, and other essential services.
“Losing someone you love is one of the hardest things any of us will ever face.Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive of West Northamptonshire Council“We want families to feel supported, respected and cared for every step of the way. Now that the structure is in place, we're one step closer to providing a modern, respectful facility that will better serve families and professionals across Northamptonshire”
The mortuary will also help emergency services if there is ever a major incident, such as a disaster with multiple casualties. It will ensure that Northamptonshire is well-prepared to handle such situations while continuing to provide vital services for the community.
The project is being delivered by Stepnell Ltd, a contractor with extensive experience in managing large-scale construction projects.
“Reaching this stage is a significant milestone, and we’re proud to be delivering a facility that will make such an important difference to families and frontline services.Adrian Barnes, Director at Stepnell Ltd“With the steel frame complete, the building’s shape is now clear, and we’re progressing well towards the next phase.”
Find out more about the Northampton Mortuary on the West Northamptonshire Council website.
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14 May 2025

With just 100 days to go until Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 kicks off, World Rugby has today unveiled a bold new trophy – a symbol of the game’s unstoppable global rise and announced it will visit West Northants as part of its nationwide tour.
The record-breaking tournament has already surpassed all expectations with 300,000 tickets sold - more than double the total attendance from RWC 2021 in New Zealand, with a further wave of tickets being released today, seeing the tournament firmly on course to become the biggest Women’s Rugby World Cup in history.
The trophy will be arriving in Northampton Market Square on Monday 26 May, from 9am to 3pm for people to come along and snap a photo with the iconic trophy, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, meet local influencers, and find out how to get involved as we gear up to host this world-class tournament later this year. The trophy will also be making appearances at the MotoGP in Silverstone, Brackley town centre, and Northampton Casuals Rugby Club during its visit.
“We’re incredibly proud to be one of the host locations for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 and to welcome the brand-new trophy to West Northamptonshire as part of its national tour.Cllr Mark Arnull from West Northamptonshire Council“The excitement is building across our communities, and we can’t wait to showcase all that our area has to offer to fans and visitors from around the world. Hosting the tournament is not only a celebration of sport but also an opportunity to bring people together, inspire the next generation, and shine a global spotlight on West Northants.
“We encourage everyone to come along to the Market Square in Northampton on the bank holiday to be part of this special moment and get involved in what promises to be a truly unforgettable tournament.”
To mark the 100 days to go milestone, World Rugby have today unveiled the new Women’s Rugby World Cup Trophy at London’s Battersea Power Station. The reveal, broadcast live on the BBC Morning Live, brought together senior figures from World Rugby, RWC 2025 LOC, UK Government, host cities, and Rugby World Cup legends to celebrate the progress and energy of the women’s game and look ahead to an era-defining tournament.
Crafted in sterling silver and plated with 24-carat gold, the newly designed trophy is a modern expression of excellence and ambition. It fuses history and future by retaining the iconic twin handles of the original prize while introducing a sleek, oval silhouette, with names of past champions engraved on its base acknowledging the trailblazers who have shaped the game. The world map etched into the surface symbolises the game’s universal reach, celebrating the nations that have competed on the Rugby World Cup stage and the new stars who will carry the game forward.
“We are just 100 days away from welcoming the world to England for what will be the biggest and best Women’s Rugby World Cup yet. The excitement is real, and the momentum is building by the day, as this tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience for everyone.Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Managing Director Sarah Massey“With more tickets going on sale today, don’t miss out on seeing rugby’s powerful personalities and unstoppable athletes take to the global stage.” Find out more and buy tickets on the Women’s Rugby World Cup website.
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