Revolution Radio - Local News

September 04, 2024

£21m Send School to create an extra 230 spaces in Northamptonshire

04 September 2024 The delivery of the new 230-place school in Tiffield, Northamptonshire, has reached a significant milestone. Following the demolition and clearance of the site, which took place this spring, the steelwork for the school is now complete. Being built on St Johns Road, on the former St Johns Centre site, the construction project is being led by national contractor Willmott Dixon for West Northamptonshire Council, Greenwood Academies Trust and the Department for Education. The new school will provide additional special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) spaces in the local community. Set to complete in Summer 2025, the specialist school will improve access to education and increase the support available to families. Pupils aged four to 18 years old will benefit from a variety of facilities including specialist teaching spaces, a soft playroom, a sensory room and a rebound therapy room. A playground, outdoor soft and hard play areas, and staff and visitor car parking are also included within the plans. A drop-off area and additional queuing space will also be available, making drop-off and collection easier for pupils and parents. Due to the rural landscape surrounding the school, landscaping has been prioritised on the 20,217sqm site to ensure the school blends in with the surrounding area. “Our record of delivering SEND schools within the East Midlands is something we take great pride in. We approach each project with the unique needs of the local community, students and staff in mind, and look forward to delivering a school that meets these requirements. “We are embedding a range of sustainable elements in this project to help futureproof the school and make it energy efficient. The school will be powered by photovoltaics (PVs) and utilise air source heat pumps, aligning with our continual commitment to sustainability.” Nick Heath, director at Willmott Dixon “It is great news that the main construction work has started to deliver a new special school for children and young people with SEND, and their families. We know there is a shortfall of placements in West Northants and that demand is continuing to increase, so this is very much needed. The new facility will offer high-quality education and learning facilities in a positive environment. “Once the school opens it will help us to manage the demand we are seeing for placements as we continue on our improvement journey. The team involved will continue to work closely with all partners and stakeholders to ensure all are kept up to date and informed on progress.” Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Childrens, Families, Education and Skills at WNC The school’s sustainable approach will also support West Northamptonshire Council’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. Joining Willmott Dixon on the project team are Associated Architects, Hexa Consulting, JEH Planning, Ares Landscape Architects and SVM Building Services Design. For more information about Willmott Dixon, visit www.willmottdixon.co.uk . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 05, 2024

Northamptonshire to look at learning opportunities from publication of Grenfell Tower Inquiry report

Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson says Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue will take every learning opportunity it can from the publication of the Phase Two report of the Grenfell Tower Fire Inquiry. The report has been published this morning (September 4) and examines how the tower block came to be in a condition that allowed the fire to spread back in 2017. Nikki Watson said: “The Grenfell Tower Fire has been the biggest single incident to affect the Fire sector in many years. Seven years on, our thoughts remain with the victims, their families and the local communities that were affected by this tragedy. It is important to acknowledge the scale of what happened at Grenfell but also to examine what can be learned as a result of it. “Although Northamptonshire doesn’t have many high-rise buildings at all, there will undoubtedly be things we can take on board from the national lessons on protection and response that will arise from this. “Since 2017, our Fire Protection Team has worked with owners of high-rise buildings across the county to improve fire safety within their premises, and a lot has already been learned. “We will read the full report with interest, identify what we can take forward from the recommendations and implement as much as we can in order to best safeguard our residents.”

September 03, 2024

Discover what treasures you can uncover at Northampton’s Market, reimagined

03 September 2024 Preparations are underway as Northampton Market is set to return to the historic market square from 20 September, following the area undergoing extensive regeneration to provide a renewed space for residents, businesses, and traders. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is working closely with new and existing traders to finalise their bespoke fixed stalls and arrangements for their flexible pop-up stalls ahead of the reopening weekend. 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. As part of the extensive refurbishment traders have access to bespoke, fixed stalls as well as pop up stalls. These modern fixed stalls benefit from electric, water and lighting, can be customised to meet the needs of traders and provide a safe and secure place to sell their goods. One of the new traders to move into the fixed permanent stalls is Steve Reid, who owns Northampton Cheese Company . “We are looking forward to the opening of the market and using one of the new pods. Also being able to bring our cheese, charcuterie and chutneys that are handmade just down the street. Along with many local artisan products too.” Steve Reid, Owner of Northampton Cheese Company A whole host of products and services will be on offer at Northampton’s historic market square from 20 September 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 will be 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. The wider Market Square will be enhanced by the new shoe-inspired water feature, a dedicated events space and improved landscaping which will create a welcoming destination and drive footfall and while providing a catalyst for private sector investment into Northampton town centre. These improved facilities are also attracting a number of new businesses and by the time we open we will have an enhanced range of quality products as well as welcoming back the existing, valued market traders. “The final preparations are underway to welcome local business owners and traders back to our historic market square. Once open, the renewed space will offer a wide range of high-quality local produce and services. We are delighted to be able to welcome a diverse mix of stalls and traders when we reopen in just a few weeks’ time. Visitors will find an exciting 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 of 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?

September 02, 2024

Proposals set out new crematorium to serve West Northamptonshire’s communities

02 September 2024 Proposals have been unveiled for a new crematorium in West Northamptonshire to address the increasing need for cremation services across local communities. West Northamptonshire Council has set out plans to develop a state-of-the-art and sustainable new facility on land at Wantage Farm, in the Round Spinney area of Northampton. Residents will soon be able to give their views on the plans before a planning application is submitted for the scheme in November. With existing crematoria within the area operating above their capacity – the new facility will ease the pressure on local need, reduce waiting times and improve the service for bereaved families. Building the new crematorium is also expected to bring benefits to the local community, with the surrounding land transformed into recreational spaces, including walking paths and green areas. It will be designed to minimise the impact on local surroundings, particularly around traffic, noise and appearance issues, with a key focus on sustainability and biodiversity including energy-efficient electric cremators, heat recovery systems, solar panels, green roofs and thoughtful landscaping. Wantage Farm was selected as the most suitable site following a robust and thorough assessment of 11 potential locations in West Northants – this included looking at factors such as size, accessibility, ecology and archaeology as well as how they aligned with key policies such as the Local Plan and flood risk management. Placing a crematorium on the site would also preserve and protect the Green Wedge. “On average, 80 per cent of people opt for cremation over burial, and the new facility at Round Spinney, will relieve pressure on the other existing crematorium in West Northants, reducing wait times for bereaved families while allowing them to hold longer, more meaningful ceremonies for their loved ones. “This new facility addresses the urgent need for additional cremation services in a way that respects and enhances our natural environment. “In addition to providing essential services, its construction and operation will create jobs and support local businesses. The crematorium will be inclusive to everyone of all different faiths, offering a range of features to meet the diverse needs of our community and providing spaces that respect the privacy and dignity of everyone.” Councillor Mike Hallam, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and HR at West Northamptonshire Council Residents will be encouraged to view the proposals and give their views during the pre-planning consultation, which will start on Wednesday, 25 September. This will include an in-person session at Moulton Community Library from 5pm to 8pm where people will be able to view the project plans, ask questions, and share their feedback. The plans will also be available at the Moulton Community Library from Wednesday, 25 September until Wednesday, 2 October, with an option to participate in an online consultation. “The feedback gathered from this pre-planning consultation will play a key role in shaping the final plans and so I would urge everyone to get involved. "Your input is crucial as we strive to ensure this is a facility that not only meets practical needs but also enriches our community’s well-being. We are committed to listening, adapting, and working together to make this project a success for all of West Northamptonshire.” Cllr Hallam Find out more about Wantage Park . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 02, 2024

Options for vacant building in Brackley explored for community benefit

02 September 2024 A range of opportunities are being explored to bring the former Southfield School on Banbury Road, Brackley back into use for the community. As part of the proposals, West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is looking to provide a flexible space for community groups across the area to use for a variety of uses such as local youth groups, hosting meetings, and delivering productions. West Northamptonshire Council has worked to ensure that the ‘theatre’ space available for volunteer organisations to use in order to deliver key community services. The Council is also looking at additional opportunities for how the space can support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and their families. “We are working hard to retain a dedicated community space to provide local organisations with the opportunity to deliver a wide range of key activities which will benefit people of all ages across Brackley and the wider area. “We are pleased be exploring opportunities to transform this empty school into a space for our community. Over the coming months we will confirm our plans to ensure that this vacant space is brought forward into a community hub for local residents, community groups and our SEND children and their families to use.” Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at WNC and ward member for Brackley Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 03, 2024

Connect, learn, and support: Armed Forces Information Day at the Guildhall

03 September 2024 Residents, businesses, and community groups in West Northamptonshire are invited to attend the Armed Forces Community Information Day on Wednesday, 25 September, at the Guildhall in Northampton. Organised by West Northamptonshire Council in partnership with the Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) at the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, this event will bring together a wide range of local partners, charities, and support services to offer members of the Armed Forces Community, including veterans, serving personnel, and their families, an opportunity to learn more about the support, activities, and organisations available across Northamptonshire. Throughout the day, attendees can visit stalls hosted by local Armed Forces charities and support services including the Models for Heroes , Pets as Therapy , SSAFA , DMWS , The Royal British Legion , The Frank Bruno Foundation , Combat Stress , 103 Bn REME , The University of Northampton , Reading Force and The Bridge Substance Misuse Programme . In addition to the informative stalls, an exciting series of engaging guest talks will be held. These include an inspiring talk from Dave at Northamptonshire Walks, who will discuss the benefits of outdoor activities for wellbeing and mobility. There will also be a special screening of the "Streets of Change" documentary, which highlights the challenges of homelessness, addiction, and recovery. Local businesses and organisations are also encouraged to attend and learn more about the Armed Forces Covenant and the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. Jim, the Chair of the Northamptonshire Reserves’ Forces and Cadets’ Association, will share insights on how signing the Covenant can benefit businesses and how to progress through the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. "We are incredibly proud to support our Armed Forces Community in West Northamptonshire. This event is an excellent opportunity for service members, veterans, and their families to connect with the support they may need. It’s also a chance for businesses and local organisations to show their commitment to those who have served by learning more about the Armed Forces Covenant. We look forward to welcoming everyone on the day and showing our collective appreciation for the Armed Forces Community." Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at WNC, and Armed Forces Champion For more information, or to enquire about signing the Armed Forces Covenant, please email [email protected] or visit the Armed Forces Covenant page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 03, 2024

Have your say on how the Council plans to manage and enhance tree and woodland across West Northants

03 September 2024 Residents are being asked to share their views on a strategy that sets out a vision for the future treescape of West Northamptonshire. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is in the final stages of developing the tree and woods strategy that will help to manage trees across the area more effectively for the next twenty years. The Council recognises that well planted, managed and enhanced tree and woodland cover can deliver vital environmental, social and economic benefits now and into the future. This consultation follows initial work carried out by the Council’s Scrutiny Committee, as well as the results of a consultation that took place over winter 2023/24. This background ensures that local issues and priorities that were highlighted are at the heart of the strategy, and we would like to thank all who have helped shape this draft. “The draft strategy sets out how we will manage, protect and expand tree and woodland cover across West Northants to 2045, as well how we intend to collaborate with partners and the wider community. “I would encourage people to share their views on the proposals within the strategy so that we can ensure that we’re focussing on the right things.” Cllr Rebecca Breese, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste The consultation closes on Sunday 13 October , and we are keen for residents, businesses, community groups and other stakeholders to have their say. The final strategy will be published early 2025 and will be supported by an action plan that will be reviewed every 5 years. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

September 02, 2024

Residents to benefit from new bus services across West Northants

02 September 2024 The launch of these new services comes thanks to partnership working with Stagecoach Midlands and funding from the Government’s Department for Transport Bus Service Improvement plan, and will run from 2 September. The X91 service between Towcester and Milton Keynes will serve Deanshanger and Potterspury hourly during the daytime from Monday to Saturday. This will provide better connectivity to Milton Keynes central and Milton Keynes train station, making rail services to London more accessible, and more opportunities to travel to and from Towcester. There will be additional journeys to and from Brixworth and Northampton. The new 17 bus service and existing X7 bus service combined will provide up to two buses an hour. There will also be a regular hourly daytime service for the D4 route from Daventry to Long Buckby to provide improved access to Long Buckby train station and village. “We are delighted that Stagecoach will be operating several new services from next month. It is important that we continue to look at ways of improving travel links for those who live, visit, work and study in our area. “This follows on from several service improvements announced in July, and it is thanks to funding from the DfT and working closely with Stagecoach that they will be able to run these services that provide more opportunities for our residents to move around.” Cllr Phil Larratt, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport "It's great to be continuing our partnership with WNC to deliver further improvements for passengers. These enhanced services will provide more journey opportunities for work, education and leisure as we further support the local economy, and we very much look forward to welcoming passengers onboard." Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said: “Buses are an affordable and sustainable travel option and it’s fantastic to see that local people in West Northamptonshire will now enjoy more bus services to get around more easily and with greater peace of mind. “Our Better Buses Bill will help West Northamptonshire Council continue transforming its local bus network by giving local passengers the modern, clean and efficient bus services they can truly rely on.” Mark Whitelocks, Managing Director of Stagecoach Midlands In July this year, Stagecoach also introduced some new evening services on a year trial basis as follows: 1: Northampton to Rectory Farm 2: Northampton to Blackthorn 5: Northampton to Southfields 15: Northampton to New Duston D2: Northampton to Daventry X47: Northampton to Rushden Lakes - via Wellingborough. To find out more please visit the Stagecoach website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 30, 2024

Prepare for the unexpected: Join the September emergency planning campaign

30 August 2024 This September, residents in West Northants are invited to take part in the tenth annual "September is Preparedness Month" campaign, proudly brought to you by the #30days30ways UK initiative. The campaign will run from 1 to 30 September across the UK, offering a diverse range of daily activities designed to boost preparedness and resilience to emergencies. Each day unveils a new theme encouraging residents to learn about and prepare for a variety of emergency scenarios, from floods and power cuts to first aid and mental health. Participants can engage in these activities by accessing the provided resources and taking part in the daily challenges. In advance of this year’s campaign, residents are all encouraged to participate in a brief survey - to assess their preparedness for emergencies that may happen. This survey will open on 1 September. "When people talk about emergencies, our minds tend to turn to global catastrophes. “But being prepared isn’t just for those headline-grabbing incidents. Power cuts, water main bursts, gas leaks, transport strikes, road closures... we experience a variety of inconveniences every day. Taking a few steps to prepare will help not only with those 'everyday emergencies' but also with far less likely incidents.” Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at WNC “We are really excited about this TENTH YEAR anniversary edition of the #30days30waysUK campaign on social media. Along with colleagues from across the UK we have put together an excellent ‘September is Preparedness Month 2024’ programme with key messages, resources and fun, engaging challenges for people to participate in and share on social media and offline.” Joanne Maddams, Emergency Planning and Business Continuity Manager at WNC and co-founder of the campaign Stay connected and informed by following the campaign's daily updates on social media platforms. Search for the hashtag #30days30waysUK to find the latest resources and engage in discussions with fellow participants. For more information about the campaign, please visit 30days30waysUK or email [email protected] . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 30, 2024

Residents are urged to complete annual canvass paperwork promptly

30 August 2024 The council’s annual canvass is now well underway, with every property in the area having received a canvass communication either through email or letter. The canvass is a legal requirement, enabling the council to maintain a current and precise electoral register. Being on the register is essential for adults to be able to exercise their right to vote in elections and referendums. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in jury service selection and is often used in credit checks for mortgages and other financial purposes. Residents who have provided their email addresses to the council should have already received a branded email from West Northamptonshire Council. The email, sent from [email protected] , contains step-by-step instructions on how to check, confirm, and/or change your details online. Those who do not respond by Monday, 9 September, will receive a reminder letter at their property. Some households will also receive a form to complete. We urge you to respond promptly to the email or form to save the cost of sending reminders. This year, the council is also required to review all European citizens registered to vote. If we cannot confirm that an EU voter has resided in the UK before 31 December 2020 by checking historical electoral records, a letter or email will be sent to the voter to confirm their eligibility under the new criteria. EU citizens who receive a letter confirming their eligibility to vote do not need to take further action. They remain eligible and can vote in upcoming elections, excluding UK Parliamentary elections. “It’s really important that people keep an eye out for their email or form and follow the steps to confirm their details. This is the quickest and easiest way for people to update their details, and it means we don’t have to send reminders. “It only takes a couple of minutes to respond and saves you from being contacted by our team, who will get in touch by post, email, or in person if you don’t reply.” Anna Earnshaw, Electoral Registration Officer for WNC If you’re not currently registered to vote, you can easily register to vote online or call 0300 126 7000 . People are also reminded to be cautious of phishing, scams, or spam emails during this time. West Northamptonshire Council will never ask for personal or banking details via email. If you have any concerns or doubts, please contact us on 0300 126 7000 . Find more information about the annual canvass and its purpose . Find more details about the eligibility confirmation and review for European Union Citizens . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 30, 2024

One week to go until Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men arrives in West Northants

30 August 2024 There is now one week to go until the superstars of world cycling head to West Northamptonshire, as the 20th edition of Britain’s biggest professional cycle race, the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men, comes to Northampton for the first time on Saturday 7 September. 18 of the world’s top cycling teams, including the likes of double Olympic gold medallist Remco Evenepoel, double world road race champion Julian Alaphilippe (both Soudal Quick-Step) and Olympic mountain biking star Tom Pidcock (INEOS Grenadiers) all confirmed to be on the start line at the University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus, for the penultimate stage of the 2024 Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men. As well as hosting the free-to-attend professional race, West Northamptonshire Council and the University of Northampton will also be welcoming fans with a range of free events and activities for all the family throughout the day. University of Northampton Ahead of stage five fans will be able to watch the preparations of teams with all of the riders being presented to the crowd team-by-team on the podium from 09:50, ahead of the stage start at 11:00. Before the professional riders take to the roads of West Northamptonshire, the next generation of cycling talent will lead the race away, with under 16 riders from the NCR-Foundation Talent Development Programme heading off just before the start. A national talent programme designed to identify, develop, and confirm a cohort of riders annually onto the Great Britain Cycling Team Academy programmes, in a few years some of these riders could be in the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain. After the race has departed all of the action will be broadcast on a big screen on the Waterside Campus, and there will be plenty of free activities for fans of all ages to get involved in. Among the activities will be a climbing wall, Watt Bike challenge, a spin challenge from Trilogy Gym, and rowing machines, while fans who cycle to the race can also have their bikes marked by Northamptonshire Police, and explore stands from West Northamptonshire Council, NLive, and AJ Cycles among others. The fan village will also include a presence from race title sponsors Lloyds Bank, plus British Cycling partner’s Alé Cycling, Vittoria, Ridgeback, and Shimano, with the latter providing free bike safety checks for fans, plus the chance to try food from Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men hospitality partners Gaucho. Route The main challenge on the route is a pair of King of the Mountains climbs after Daventry, with the race due to tackle Newnham Hill (11:35 – 11:39) and Bullshill (11:40 – 11:45). The climbs are the final pair of categorised climbs in the 2024 race, meaning whoever holds the blue King of the Mountains jersey at the day’s end in Northampton will win the classification, providing they finish the race on Sunday. Riders will also tackle an intermediate sprint at Holcot (14:02 – 14:39), immediately after the picturesque crossing of the Pittsford Water causeway, where time bonuses and points towards the red Points jersey will be up for grabs to the first five riders. Finish, Northampton town centre The finish line on Derngate in Northampton town centre is just a short 15-minute walk away from the University of Northampton via Beckets Park, meaning that spectators have plenty of time to get involved in activities on the Waterside Campus, or make their way into the town centre. The race comes into Northampton via Abington Park and the Billing Road, with the finish on Derngate expected to be between 14:23 and 15:05, followed by the podium ceremony close by in the town centre. A range of other events are also taking place in West Northamptonshire that weekend, and more information, including the route map and estimated times of arrival, can be found on our the West Northamptonshire Council Tour of Britain webpage . “With just one week to go, we encourage everyone to join us in welcoming the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men to West Northamptonshire for the first time. “This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to witness world-class cycling up close and be part of a truly historic event - whether by cheering the cyclists along the route, enjoying the free family activities at the University of Northampton, or celebrating the riders at the finish line in Northampton town centre whilst enjoying the fantastic local businesses and hospitality on offer. “The Tour will not only bring great excitement to our area but will showcase the beauty and spirit of West Northamptonshire to a global audience.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & Leisure at WNC “We have always said that great journeys start at University, and on 7 September that will literally be the case as the best cyclists in the world begin the penultimate stage of the Tour from our fantastic Waterside Campus. We can’t wait to welcome the riders and fans next week for what promises to be a remarkable stage in this epic endurance event.” University of Northampton Vice Chancellor Anne-Marie Kilday Fans wanting to see Remco Evenepoel, Julian Alaphilippe, and more in action firsthand at the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men can now book and enjoy a range of premium hospitality opportunities and experiences, available via Sportive Breaks here . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 29, 2024

Help shape the West Northamptonshire local offer website pages

29 August 2024 It has been twelve months since WNC launched the new Local Offer website , an online resource to find services for children and young people (aged 0 to 25) with special educational needs and disabilities in West Northamptonshire. The local offer receives thousands of new page views each month and we are keen to hear your views on what you find helpful and how we can improve. Take the time to fill out this short survey by 31 October and tell us your views. There is an exciting opportunity to have a 'Chatbot' or online help - you can let the development team know how you might use this when searching the Local Offer. Please share this with anyone else you know who has used the Local Offer website. We welcome feedback from any young people who have helped us with the Local Offer so far, and any who have ideas for the future. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 27, 2024

First leisure centre in West Northamptonshire to become host to a Chatty Café

27 August 2024 Trilogy Active’s Duston Sports Centre is set to become the first leisure centre in West Northants to join The Chatty Cafe Scheme - reducing loneliness to get people chatting! The 'Chatter & Natter table' launches on Friday 30 August from 9am – 1pm, and will be held at this day and time on a weekly basis. The Chatty Café Scheme is the UK’s leading non-profit organisation tackling loneliness. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has 23 face-to-face meet-ups where venues offer ‘Chatter and Natter’ tables, where customers can get together and chat. Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at WNC said: “It is fantastic news that the first chatty café in West Northamptonshire is set to launch at Duston Sports Centre. This will provide an opportunity to people across the area to come and meet likeminded people and make new connections, and I’d encourage anyone who is interested in meeting new people to go along to one of the sessions and find out more.” WNC aims to deliver initiatives which reduce social isolation and loneliness. This has created the opportunity for Welcoming Spaces to become part of the national Chatty Café Scheme initiative, where WNC has funded 50 annual memberships. Each venue receives a Welcome Pack with ‘Chatter & Natter’ table signs, posters, leaflets, and window stickers, and registration on the national scheme’s map. There are hundreds of venues around the UK, many Chatter and Natter tables are hosted by Chatty Table Volunteers and are designed to reduce loneliness and/or social isolation. “Trilogy Active is very proud to be hosting Northamptonshire’s first Leisure Centre Chatty Cafe. “We recognise the importance value both physically and emotionally of people getting out, meeting up and socialising with others.” “The local Duston community is a welcoming and friendly place, that’s why the CoffeeBox at Duston Sports Centre is the perfect place to host this great initiative. We encourage anyone to come along, meet with others and take advantage of this much needed opportunity.” John Fletcher, Managing Director of Trilogy Active The Chatty Café is a great way of encouraging people to talk to others. The scheme is the brainchild of Alexandra Hoskyn, who founded it after a miserable day at a supermarket café with her infant son, where she noticed that no one was talking to each other. The aim of the Chatter & Natter tables is to continue to help communities connect and combat loneliness by working closely with venues throughout the country to raise awareness of the scheme and encourage cafes; pubs; garden centres; libraries; Universities, to open their doors and provide spaces for members of the public to sit and chat together. Who can join in? Anyone... if you're on your own, in a couple, with a friend, if you're a carer why not sit there with who you care for, mums and babies, dads and babies, grandparents and babies, young people, older people and anyone in between! It’s a great way to meet new people in your community. What do I do? When you are deciding where to sit, look for the Chatter & Natter table and sit there! Stay for five minutes while you have your drink or longer. It’s not about making life-long friends, just having good old fashioned human interaction! For more information, please visit our Chatty Café Scheme . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 23, 2024

Olympic gold medallist set to compete in Tour of Britain

Parks, sports and leisure 23 August 2024 Tom Pidcock with his gold medal from the Paris games. Credit: SWPix.com Team GB Olympic gold medallist Tom Pidcock is set to be among the riders when the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain cycling race visits West Northamptonshire on Saturday 7 September. Pidcock, who won the thrilling cross-country mountain bike race in Paris , will compete in the Tour for INEOS Grenadiers. The 25-year-old joins the likes of double Olympic champion Remco Evenepoel, and former race winner Julian Alaphilippe (both racing for Soudal Quick-Step) on the provisional start list for the 20 th edition of Britain’s biggest professional cycle race. The West Northants stage will start from the University of Northampton at 11am and weave its way around West Northants before finishing at the Guildhall in Northampton from around 2.20pm. The route will visit Daventry and around 30 villages across West Northants, and communities are encouraged to come out and cheer on the cyclists as they race towards the finish line. The stage will feature two 'King of the Mountain' climbs - at Newnham Hill and Bulls Hill, just south of Daventry. There will also be an intermediate sprint on Pitsford Causeway - offering plenty of opportunities for spectators to find the perfect spot from which to witness the race. Events and activities will be taking place at the University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus throughout the day. And in Daventry, Daventry Town Council will be hosting their annual Foodies Market and the free Daventry Heritage Bus Rides , meaning visitors will really be able to make a day of it. A range of other events are also taking place in West Northamptonshire that weekend, and more information, including the route map and estimated times of arrival, can be found on our Men's Tour of Britain webpage People can also find out more on the Tour of Britain site The Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men begins in the Scottish Borders on Tuesday 3 September followed by stages in the Tees Valley, South Yorkshire, and the East Midlands before it visits West Northamptonshire. It concludes in Suffolk on Sunday 8 September after six stages of action-packed racing. In total 18 teams, including six that participated in this summer’s Tour de France, from 12 countries will line-up in Scotland for stage one on Tuesday 3 September for a field of 108 riders. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 22, 2024

Residents encouraged to share suggestions as work continues to further strengthen community relations in West Northamptonshire

22 August 2024 Residents and community groups are being encouraged to share their concerns and suggestions around safety and inclusion as work continues to further strengthen community relations in West Northamptonshire. The call comes from the West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership (CSP), which brings together agencies including the police, council, fire and rescue service, NHS health partners and community and voluntary groups, and is progressing a programme of actions to further improve community cohesion. Earlier this month more than 30 partners gathered to focus on how to further develop community cohesion work locally and are now calling upon communities to get involved and give their views too. They are asked to get in touch with concerns and suggestions about their community to help shape the plans by emailing [email protected] . This work is being reinforced by two new Community Cohesion Officers who will be out and about in communities providing on-the-ground support to residents. The partnership is also working with a number of community forums aligned to various protected characteristics including disability, gender, sexuality, age, religion, faith and ethnicity. The forums provide a safe, accessible space to engage communities who are seldom heard and who may not ordinarily engage and gives them a platform to feedback on issues of concern and help improve the quality of life for the community they are representing. Find out more on the West Northants community forums webpage . "Recent events have truly highlighted the resilience of our local community. “Through continued engagement and the strong efforts of the West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership, we will keep working to protect and uplift every member of our community. We encourage all residents to participate, share their concerns, and help us build a safer, more cohesive West Northamptonshire for all." Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at WNC The CSP’s progressing programme of work to improve community cohesion includes increasing neighbourhood engagement and addressing health inequalities. “It is not lost on anyone just how difficult it has been for our communities during recent events, and we understand these experiences will have a lasting impact on many people. “We continue to work with our partners and the community to both reassure and reinforce our promise that anyone involved in any kind of serious violence or found to be spreading hate and disinformation can expect the full force of the law and the consequences that brings. “Northamptonshire Police is dedicated and resolute in our aim to make our communities safer. We want people to feel heard and supported so please tell us your concerns and share your ideas so we can work together to build a safer, stronger and more cohesive Northamptonshire.” Deputy Chief Constable Ash Tuckley from Northamptonshire Police In the past 3 years, the partnership has supported hundreds of Ukrainian and Afghan families who have been welcomed into West Northants communities as part of the Homes for Ukraine and Afghan resettlement schemes. There are currently around 400 Ukrainians still living in West Northamptonshire and 32 Afghan households settled in and around Northampton, all being supported with integration, English language support, and access to employment and education. The team also supports asylum seekers who have had claims determined to find homes and work, including integration and information sessions around UK laws and culture, the education and health systems, volunteering and road safety. Find out more about the partnership and their work on the CSP webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 22, 2024

Health, safety and wellbeing forum offering support for businesses

22 August 2024 Business owners across West Northants are invited to a free forum aimed at health, safety and wellbeing within the workplace. The event, taking place on Friday 27 September between 9am and 1pm, at The Hub, Drift Drive in Crick (NN6 7GZ), is an opportunity for new and established businesses to listen to a series of speakers on the following topics: Workplace wellbeing toolkit – West Northamptonshire Council’s Health Improvement service Wellbeing, diversity and inclusion within Wickes Unforeseen safety risk (and solution) to decarbonising forklift truck fleets with Travis Perkins Warrens The Journey Organised by West Northamptonshire Council’s Regulatory Services and Warrens at DIRFT, there will also be information on food hygiene, health and safety, allergen management, pest control and more. WNC’s Inward Investment and Business Growth team will be on hand to offer business advice and support and information on funding opportunities. “We’re pleased to be able to put on this forum to highlight the advice, support and guidance available to business owners to help them succeed. “It is a chance for them to be able to listen to industry leaders, ask questions and network with others. I would encourage new and established businesses to come along to find out more about the support on offer from the Council and its partners.” Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services Places are limited and can be reserved on the Council’s Ticket Source page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 22, 2024

Construction works well underway for transformation of Northampton shopping district

22 August 2024 The works on Fish Street, as part of a wider regeneration project to Northampton town centre, are well underway with new lettering cementing the rejuvenation of this part of the town. West Northamptonshire Council is working with Kier Transportation to carry out vital works to enhance the appearance of Abington Street and Fish Street. Since March, nearly 900m2 of paving has been installed on Fish Street, along with an improved drainage system and fish themed paving designs. This project will lift the quality of the public spaces through high quality materials, increasing seating and planting, introducing new art and play opportunities along the street, as well as space for outdoor dining and community activity. Businesses in the area have been kept up to date with the project’s phases, and the project’s dedicated single point of contact has been working closely to ensure they have been able to operate with minimal disruption. The redevelopment will complement the wider Market Square transformation, and provide enhanced connectivity with the rest of the town. “Work is well underway to deliver this significant project which will transform one of the busiest shopping streets in Northampton. Visitors to the town will be able to see the progress which is taking shape at Fish Street as the lettering has now cemented this rejuvenated street and the new paving which elevates this area. Once complete and thoroughly cleaned, the revitalised area and enhanced features will offer a fantastic space for people to use and enjoy. We look forward to the completed project opening this winter.” Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC “We are pleased with the progress made so far in this transformative project for Northampton's shopping district. Working closely with West Northamptonshire Council, we've already made significant steps toward revitalising the town centre. “Project teams have been working closely with local businesses to ensure minimal disruption. This marks an exciting time for Northampton, and we look forward to seeing how the works leave a lasting, positive impact on the community." Edith Shah, general manager at Kier Transportation Work continues with the completion of Abington Street repaving, the upgrade and installation of street lighting, installation of street furniture, planting of new trees, and minor finishing touches. The project is set to be complete in Winter 2024/2025 and will be thoroughly cleaned once all construction works are completed. To stay up to date with the regeneration of Northampton Town Centre, visit: We Are Northampton . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 19, 2024

Marking World Suicide Prevention Day across Northamptonshire

19 August 2024 People across Northamptonshire are invited to a special screening and Q&A to mark World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery on Monday 9 September from 6:30pm. North and West Northamptonshire Councils are hosting the event to provide people with the opportunity to watch 'Fifty-Four Days,' a film about suicide bereavement, listen to or join in a question-and-answer session on this topic, and find out more about services across Northamptonshire that can support them. Refreshments will be provided by local company, Punjabi Fusion. The event is ticket only and you must sign up via this link to attend. “As a partnership, we believe every death by suicide is one too many. Each of these deaths can potentially be prevented and that’s why we are working towards raising awareness of suicide prevention, making it a priority for everyone. The event will provide people with the opportunity to find out more about services available across the county and view this thought-provoking film.” Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at WNC In Northamptonshire, around 60 people take their own life each year. The effects of suicide can be devastating, and the impact felt by many – including family, friends, neighbours, employers, colleagues, professionals, and the wider community. We understand that this is a difficult topic to discuss and will have affected people in different ways. It is important to seek help and support if you are struggling and/or worried about someone else. If you are concerned that an individual has taken steps to harm themselves or someone around them, then please contact the emergency services on 999. In Northamptonshire, there is a 24-hour mental health number where you can access support for yourself, or someone you are worried about on 0800 448 0828 . There is also a text number available (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) on 07480 635531. Find out more about mental health services Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 20, 2024

Funding available for community groups to support mental health initiatives

20 August 2024 Voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across West Northamptonshire are invited to apply for grant funding to deliver community-based projects which seek to improve the mental wellbeing of local residents. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is committed to promoting good mental health and wellbeing, for people who live, work and study in the area and is working in collaboration with NHS, the VCSE sector, and other partners to deliver services which benefit the local community. WNC has announced that grant funding is available and welcomes joint bids, especially those that focus on collaborative working to tackle mental health inequalities within our local area. The deadline for expressions of interest for the Community Mental Health Prevention Grant is 27 September 2024. To receive an application form and the grant documents, please email [email protected] with the subject ‘Community Mental Health Prevention Grant’. As part of the joined-up approach we are taking with other organisations, including as part of the local “Live Your Best Life Strategy”, West Northamptonshire Council are seeking to fund a variety of mental health support programmes, based in our local community. “We all have mental health. Good mental health can bring a sense of direction and purpose, the ability to cope with challenges in our life, and give us energy to do the things we would like to do. Mental health does not always stay the same, it can change as our circumstances may change and as we reach different stages in life. The Better Mental Health For All report highlights the importance of public mental health acting in an empowering way to tackle health inequalities. We look forward to hearing from local groups about their initiatives and working with them to improve the mental wellbeing of our communities.”. Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at WNC “The above report highlights the clinical and economic importance of promoting positive mental health to give people hope, choice and agency. We wish to develop excellent partnership working with the VCSE alongside local communities and groups. This funding provides new partnership opportunities.” Dr David Smart The key areas of focus for these programmes are mental health support for adults with long-term physical health problems, and promotion of mental wellbeing and resilience for those at risk of stress, anxiety, and depression. View The Better Mental Health For All Report Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 22, 2024

Rugby fans encouraged to register interest as one year countdown to biggest ever Women’s Rugby World Cup begins

22 August 2024 Rugby fans are encouraged to register their interest for tickets as the one year countdown to the Women’s Rugby World Cup England 2025, which will see matches take place at West Northamptonshire’s Franklins Gardens Stadium, begins. With venues spanning the length and breadth of the country, England 2025 will be the biggest and most accessible celebration of women’s rugby ever. And with demand for tickets set to be high, fans are encouraged to register now via the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 website to enter the presale, which take place from 10am on 24 September, until 10am on 8 October, 2024. England 2025 has also confirmed the ticket prices for all matches and kick-off times for England’s opening match at the Stadium of Light on 22 August, and both the bronze and Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 finals at Twickenham Stadium on 27 September, where a new attendance record for women’s rugby is anticipated. The 10th edition of the pinnacle tournament will host the world's best 16 teams, with 10 teams having already secured qualification. With six places remaining, it will be all to play for in WXV 2024 in September with the top six ranked non-qualified teams at the end of the tournament heading to Women’s RWC 2025. "We are incredibly excited to welcome the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 to West Northamptonshire and to see Franklin's Gardens Stadium play a key role in this historic tournament which will be broadcast to a worldwide audience. “As the one-year countdown begins, we encourage all rugby fans to register their interest and secure their chance to be part of what promises to be the biggest celebration of women’s rugby the world has ever seen. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness the very best in women’s sport right here in the heart of Northampton and we look forward to joining rugby fans from near and far in cheering on these exceptional athletes." Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council “With exactly one year to go until the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup gets underway, the excitement continues to build. “We’re delighted to be one of the host venues, with six matches including one Red Roses fixture set to be held in Northampton. “With priority access dates confirmed, we encourage all rugby fans to register their interest for tickets, so they can be a part of the biggest and most-accessible celebration of women’s rugby ever – right here in Northampton.” Mark Darbon, Northampton Saints Chief Executive To celebrate the one year to go milestone, Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 has launched ‘This Energy Never Stops’, a star-studded film featuring Ellie Kildunne, Renee Holmes, Babalwa Latsha and Manaé Feleu across digital platforms and social channels. ‘This Energy Never Stops’ features stars who are set to shine brightly at England 2025, including Red Roses full-back and Team GB sevens player Ellie Kildunne, France captain Manaé Feleu, South Africa captain Babalwa Latsha and Black Ferns full-back Renee Holmes. It is released at a time when women’s rugby took centre stage at the Olympic Games Paris 2024, with over 260,000 fans packing out Stade de France for three days of women’s sevens competition, projecting the sport to an unprecedented global audience. “The 12-month countdown to Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 has officially begun and we are thrilled to launch ‘This Energy Never Stops’ which is an invitation to rugby fans old and new to experience unique energy of women’s rugby on the sport’s biggest stage. The film released today not only celebrates the incredible talent and determination of these elite athletes, but also recognises the unstoppable rise of women’s sport globally. “England 2025 will be a spectacular moment for rugby, with powerful personalities, unstoppable athletes and compelling competition and with women’s sport continuing to break new records, there is no better time to join the celebrations.” Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Managing Director, Sarah Massey Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 20, 2024

£45k awarded to community groups to promote arts and culture in West Northants

20 August 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has awarded £45k to Voluntary and Community Sector organisations to expand and enhance the arts and culture offering in West Northants. 15 organisations will receive a combination of full and part funded grants of up to £5,000 including Rockin’ Roadrunner , a free annual community based festival in Abington Park which provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where people with disabilities can actively participate in music and live performance Performing Room , a community arts development programme designed to help individuals of all ages and abilities express themselves positively through music and creative arts activities Accent Percussion , a Brackley based community percussion group promoting the benefits to both physical and mental health that drumming offers at weekly sessions and public events South Northants Youth Engagement , a youth charity delivering activities and services for young people in South Northants, that will provide development arts programmes with this grant. Other groups to receive funding include: Northampton Film Festival Dancemind Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust Doddridge Centre The Lab NAB Sight Support for Northamptonshire Northampton Hope Centre One Voice Choir Albanian Cultural Association Time 4 Support Towcester Studio Band Each project addresses an identified local need and supports, enables or facilitates the achievement of one or more of the Council's strategic aims, objectives or priorities, as well as meeting two or more of the following requirements: providing ongoing arts or culture activities for the local community improving the wellbeing of vulnerable people increasing the number of people accessing arts and culture increasing the number of visitors to West Northamptonshire increasing levels of physical activity through the use of arts and culture activities “We really appreciate our incredible community groups and we’re delighted to support their efforts to bring arts and culture to every corner of West Northamptonshire. “The projects we’ve funded are not only enriching our cultural landscape but are also making a real difference in people's lives, particularly among our most vulnerable residents. “By promoting inclusivity, creativity, and wellbeing, these initiatives are helping to strengthen our communities and attract more people to experience the unique culture our area has to offer.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & Leisure See the full list of Community Funding Grants awarded . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 21, 2024

Firefighters tackle blaze at business unit in Northampton

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service was called shortly before 8.30pm last night (August 20) to reports of a fire at a business unit on St Andrew’s Road, Northampton. On arrival crews found a temporary scaffolding structure, which was storing items such as ladders and plastic, was alight. Northamptonshire Police attended to assist in closing St Andrew’s Road and set up a scene guard while firefighters tackled the blaze using water jets. By 10pm the fire had been extinguished, but the fire crews – from The Mounts, Moulton and Earls Barton – remained on scene until just after 11.30pm to damp down the structure and ensure temperatures were safe. A shipping container and shed were also destroyed in the fire. The Mounts crew returned this morning at 7am to check that temperatures remained safe, and the Fire Service will return later today to carry out an investigation to determine a cause. We would like to thank nearby residents for their patience while we attended this incident.

August 19, 2024

Police operation set to support re-opening of Northampton’s Market Square

19 August 2024 Northamptonshire Police is launching an eight-week push to drive down crime in Northampton town centre ahead of the re-opening of the historic Market Square. Operation Workforce has been set up as the regeneration project nears completion, in response to concerns from business owners and residents about police visibility and key crime types in the area. The surge activity will comprise of two four-week rounds of action, focusing in turn on anti-social behaviour, shoplifting, drugs and serious violence. “Northampton town centre has so much to offer, but we know there are certain issues around anti-social and criminal behaviour that are causing concern to businesses and shoppers. “The targeted and joined-up work of this operation will see us put a real dent in offence figures and take those responsible for repeat offending off the streets. “Our work will continue way beyond this eight-week crackdown, as we’re also putting in place long-term measures with partners to ensure our successes are carried forward to keep the town centre as safe and crime-free as possible.” Chief Inspector Kim Jackson Throughout the operation, officers will be focusing on increased visibility with hotspot patrols and undertaking both enforcement and outreach work to detect and prevent crime. The Force will be continuing to work with partners including West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Northampton BID (Business Improvement District). Joint patrols will take place to identify and address issues and problem locations – such as empty buildings and street furniture that attract or enable anti-social behaviour. Officers will also be seeking to arrest wanted offenders, engaging with retailers and will be using a knife arch and drugs dog to detect and prevent offences. Operation Workforce came about following a visit to the town centre by Chief Constable Ivan Balhatchet and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone. “Having spoken with traders, shoppers and residents in the town centre about their concerns, we’ve looked at the core crime types occurring here and put together some robust policing activity to address them. “We want this revitalised public space to be safe and welcoming for everyone and recognise there is work for us to do in order to achieve this. “By tackling these key issues and continuing our positive partnership work, we know we’re doing our bit to make sure Northampton remains a town we can all be proud of.” Chief Constable Balhatchet “I’m delighted that this police operation has been put together in response to the concerns that the Chief Constable and I saw when we came to visit the town centre. “Businesses told us very clearly that they wanted to see more visible, engaged policing and partners working together to make the area a safer place. These eight weeks of joint activity are a great start. “The people who work and live in the area know it best, and I want them to be confident that we have listened to what they had to say and taken their concerns seriously.” Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone “We are thrilled to see the historic Market Square nearing completion and are eagerly anticipating the launch event on 19 and 20 October, which will showcase this transformed public space. “The revitalisation of the Market Square is not just about enhancing the physical environment but also about bringing significant community benefits. This space will serve as a vibrant hub for local businesses, cultural events, and social gatherings, strengthening our town’s sense of community and boosting the local economy. “We fully support Operation Workforce as it plays a crucial role in ensuring that our new Market Square is safe and welcoming for all. The collaborative efforts between Northamptonshire Police, West Northamptonshire Council, and local partners will help create a secure and thriving environment where residents and visitors can enjoy everything Northampton town centre has to offer.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 17, 2024

Ten-second triage kits to be added to frontline Fire appliances

New kit will soon be added to all frontline Fire appliances in Northamptonshire to help firefighters speed up the triage of injured patients at major incidents. All fire engines will have ten-second triage kits, which allow fire crews to identify what category of care an injured patient needs within ten seconds and put a colour coded wristband on that quickly identifies to paramedics which patients need urgent care. The kit has been purchased following the findings of the Manchester Arena inquiry, and it will allow all emergency responders – whether that’s Fire, Police or Ambulance – to start to be able to rapidly triage patients and mark what priority of care they will need at major and critical incidents. Xtract Stretchers have also been added to all frontline appliances, and this will allow fire crews to be able to quickly move people away from areas of risk. Group Commander Matt Butler said: “One of the learning points from the Manchester Arena inquiry was that the triage process needed to be standardised across the Emergency Services, and one of the recommendations was that fire staff be trained in utilising these ten-second triage kits. “The kits will soon be added to all frontline appliances, and we anticipate that training will have been completed by September.” Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone added: “It is so important that our emergency services work together to keep people safe. “The addition of the ten-second triage kits to our fire engines is really going to help in our preparation for major events, as well as responding to them with our emergency service partners.”

August 15, 2024

West Northants Council allocates £12.3 million for relocatable temporary accommodation

15 August 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has approved a capital budget of £12.372 million to provide relocatable temporary accommodation (reTA) as part of its ongoing efforts to address the rising need for temporary housing in the area. The decision aims to offer safe, stable, and cost-effective temporary housing solutions for those experiencing homelessness. Plans include delivering around 100 units of relocatable temporary accommodation across two sites in Northampton, reducing the reliance on expensive and less stable options like nightly lets and bed and breakfast accommodations. The reTA units are designed to be genuinely relocatable, ensuring minimal regret costs and maximum flexibility and will support residents in securing stable addresses. This is essential for accessing employment and other opportunities and helping them transition back to conventional housing. The project is estimated to save the Council approximately £667,000 annually by providing a more cost-effective alternative to current temporary housing solutions. "The approval of this significant investment in relocatable temporary accommodation marks a crucial step in our commitment to supporting those in need of housing in West Northamptonshire. “By providing stable and cost-effective housing solutions, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also laying the groundwork for long-term benefits for our community. “This initiative underscores our dedication to improving the quality of life for our residents and ensuring that everyone has access to safe and appropriate housing." Councillor Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing at WNC The Council has explored various strategies to tackle the housing crisis, including acquiring properties on the open market and increasing affordable housing delivery. However, the introduction of reTA is seen as a necessary and innovative step to complement these efforts and ensure adequate housing provision for those with an immediate housing need until a permanent accommodation solution is found. The project will also involve the development of housing management and support services to help residents prepare for a successful transition to permanent housing. Detailed planning and procurement processes will follow to ensure the efficient and effective implementation of the reTA units. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 15, 2024

Congratulations to all those students who have received A-Level results in West Northamptonshire today!

15 August 2024 Today, Thursday 15 August 2024, is A-Level results day with thousands of students in West Northamptonshire receiving their much anticipated grades. “Congratulations to all those students who have received A-Level results in West Northamptonshire today. "I know that schools, teachers and students have put in a lot of hard work over the last year to achieve their results. "I am confident that West Northants will see many excellent grades this year and look forward to hearing about all of our local successes. "There may be students that didn't receive the outcome they hoped for, and I'd like to reassure them that support is available to help them take their next step, whether that's university, an apprenticeship, employment or training. "Anyone who did not get the results they wanted but are still passionate about learning should register with the university clearing system. "However, for some, university is not always the best route and apprenticeships can be an excellent way to enter into the world of work. "WNC has a wealth of online support from employability advice and job opportunities to mental health support and resources, so please do take advantage. "I wish all of our students the very best in their future and this exciting next step." Cllr Fiona Baker, WNC’s Cabinet member for children, families and education Useful links: Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 15, 2024

Thirteen businesses awarded grants in second round of Build Your Business Programme

15 August 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) in collaboration with the Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire (BIPC), are proud to announce the thirteen winners of the second round of start-up grants through the Build Your Business programme. This initiative, supported by £600,000 from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) over two years, aims to empower small businesses, local entrepreneurs, and aspiring business owners across the county. The Build Your Business programme consists of five comprehensive modules covering key areas of running a business. These modules, delivered by specialist partners, include marketing, business growth, financial planning and personal development for business owners. Additionally, the programme offers 1-2-1s, workshops, mentoring, and access to specialist business databases. Eligible entrepreneurs participating in the programme can apply for a £2,000 start-up grant by submitting a competitive business plan, leveraging the knowledge gained through the programme. Successful applicants not only receive this crucial financial boost but also benefit from continued support from the experienced BIPC Northamptonshire team. The successful grant winners of the second round of grants are: “The Business & IP Centre (BIPC) Northamptonshire has been an invaluable partner in the launch of our sports initiatives here in Daventry. Through their Build Your Business programme, we gained access to a wealth of resources, including informative webinars, personalised 1:1 sessions, and an extensive library for research. “This comprehensive support was crucial in refining our business plan and securing a £2,000 grant. This funding has been transformative, allowing us to invest in critical areas like professional website development, high-quality Pickleball equipment, and the rental of suitable sports facilities. We're particularly excited about the promising growth of our Pickleball programme, which is already fostering a strong sense of community and active participation.” Kate Vincent, founder of Daventry Wellness & Sports C.I.C “Accessing the resources and training seminars provided by BIPC has been invaluable for our new small business. From excellent marketing and financial management courses to personalised one-on-one support and use of the in-library Grant Finder database, we have been able to chart the course for our company's growth confidently. “The business planning documents and the guidance received during the BIPC training sessions helped crystallise our ideas and set clear short, medium, and long-term goals for our company. Securing the small business grant has allowed us to significantly expand our capacity, allowing us to serve more customers and accelerate our growth. This funding has enabled us to enhance our services and reallocate resources to other crucial areas of our business, ensuring a stronger foundation for future success.” Ami and Martin, owners of WHATSUP Training based in Thrapston "It’s fantastic to see the positive impact the Build Your Business Programme has had on local entrepreneurs and small businesses in Northamptonshire. The programme has provided vital support and resources to help our innovative businesses grow and thrive. “Congratulations to all the grant recipients of this second round. Their achievements underscore the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses, which are the backbone of our local economy. We look forward to continuing this momentum and seeing even more success stories emerge from the programme." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Building on the success of the first two rounds of the Build Your Business programme, BIPC Northamptonshire is excited to announce a third round, offering aspiring local entrepreneurs with businesses under one year old the opportunity to apply for start-up grants of up to £2,000 to help towards business-associated costs. “Small businesses and local entrepreneurs are essential to local economies across the country as well as closer to home. The last couple of years have been particularly tough for businesses and we are always working to support them in any way we can. “With this in mind, schemes like the Build Your Business Programme make such a difference and I wish all the grant recipients the best of luck in their future endeavours.” Cllr David Brackenbury, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Growth and Regeneration For more information about the Build Your Business Programme and how to apply, please visit the BIPC website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 14, 2024

Grant funding available to support the creation and enhancement of Welcoming Spaces

14 August 2024 The successful Welcoming Spaces initiative has been running in West Northamptonshire since 2022, and we are pleased to announce the reopening of our welcoming spaces grant scheme to support the creation and enhancement of Welcoming Spaces provided by Voluntary, Community and Faith sectors across West Northamptonshire. Since the Welcoming Spaces initiative started, 109 spaces have registered, 109,496 people have attended welcoming spaces sessions and 5,231 referrals have been made to organisations and services including Money & Debt, Housing & Homelessness, Welfare Rights, Immigrations Issues, Education, Employment & Support, Mental and Physical Health. Organisations are invited to apply for the Welcoming Spaces Grant from Monday 12 August 2024. This grant funding will close by the end of September 2024 and will be allocated on a first come first serve basis. “It is brilliant news that we are able to partner with community and voluntary organisations again this year to support this initiative. The welcoming spaces have been essential in providing people with access to support services and a place locally where they can socialise and reduce the effects of social isolation and loneliness.” Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services For further information and to apply please click here Welcoming spaces | West Northamptonshire Council (westnorthants.gov.uk) Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 14, 2024

Bird keepers reminded to register their flocks ahead of regulation change

14 August 2024 People who keep poultry or captive birds are being reminded by the West Northamptonshire Trading Standards Team to register their flock with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). Currently, it is only compulsory for anyone who keeps 50 or more birds to register their flock. From 1 October, new requirements for all bird keepers who keep their poultry outdoors - regardless of the size of their flock – will come in which will require anyone who owns captive birds or poultry to officially register their birds. The new rules cover owners of backyard flocks, birds of prey and pigeon fanciers. However, they do not affect caged pet birds, such as a parrot, canary or budgie (unless they are a poultry species), which are kept entirely inside a house and never leaves the property other than to visit a vet or for another short-term period. By registering their birds, keepers will ensure they receive important updates relevant to them, such as any local avian disease outbreaks and information on biosecurity rules to help protect their flocks. This will help to manage potential disease outbreaks, such as avian influenza and Newcastle disease, and limit any spread. It also enables them to keep up to date with the latest national and regional guidance. “There is less than two months to go until these regulations come into effect meaning all bird owners who keep their flock outside must register them. “These new requirements are being put in place to support wider efforts to monitor and control avian diseases. I urge all keepers to register with the APHA to protect not only their own flocks but all bird populations.” Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services For all the latest information in relation to the spread of Avian Flu and information on how you can help to protect your birds please see this guidance on Avian influenza (bird flu) . Keepers can register their birds and poultry at Poultry and other captive birds: registration rules and forms-GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 15, 2024

West Northamptonshire to mark Ukrainian Independence Day

15 August 2024 Ukrainian families in West Northamptonshire will join people across the UK to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day on Saturday, 24 August. To commemorate the occasion, West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) will be holding an event on Friday, 23 August , marking 33 years since Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The ceremony will take place at midday in the Great Hall within the Guildhall on St Giles’ Square in Northampton and will be attended by the Leader and Chairman of the Council, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, and representatives from the Ukrainian community. Speeches during the event will be translated into Ukrainian, and performances will take place from members of the Ukrainian community. Sunflowers, the national flower of Ukraine will be laid in commemoration, and refreshments will be served following the ceremony. Additionally, the Ukrainian flag will be raised at all WNC office buildings in Towcester, Daventry, and Northampton on the day. “We are honoured to join the Ukrainian community in celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day. “This event is a testament to the strength and resilience of Ukrainian families in our area and across the world. We are proud to support them through our Homes for Ukraine resettlement scheme, which has seen hundreds of local people come forward to offer their help, showcasing the incredible generosity and solidarity of our residents. “I encourage everyone to come along and join us, and if you are interested in finding out more about hosting a Ukrainian guest, please do get in touch with our teams.” Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at West Northamptonshire Council For more information on the resettlement scheme and how you can help, please visit our Homes for Ukraine webpage. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 14, 2024

Landlords urged to remember safety responsibilities for derelict buildings

Landlords of derelict and void buildings are being urged to remember their responsibility to keep them safe and secure – and ensure they don’t become targets for anti-social behaviour. The Arson Task Force, which is a partnership between Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Northamptonshire Police, work together to reduce anti-social behaviour and arson related incidents as well as working with children, young people and adults involved in deliberate fire setting. In July 2024, there were 67 reported incidents of deliberate fires across the county, many of which were associated with anti-social behaviour by youths. Seven of these incidents reported to both Police and NFRS have been within derelict and void buildings. Incidents tend to increase ahead of the school holidays and summer period, and although not every fire can be prevented, the Arson Task Force want to make sure owners have taken every precaution possible to prevent deliberate fires from being set on their vacant properties. Kelly Crockett, an Arson Reduction Co-ordinator in the Arson Task Force, said: “Building owners and landlords should ensure that their properties are secured and that regular checks are carried out to mitigate the risks. “It is the responsibility of owners to ensure that their buildings are safe and do not become targets for anti-social behaviour, and they must be aware of the impact it can have if they do not adhere to those responsibilities.” As well as liaising with business owners, the Arson Task Force can offer help and advice to adults, children and young people who display fire setting behaviours. They are asking that parents ensure that their children are aware of the dangers that void and derelict properties can pose, and that starting deliberate fires there can put not only themselves at risk but also other people. Derelict buildings can often appear exciting places to explore, however they have hidden dangers such as unsafe flooring, walls and roofing structures that could potentially be unstable and on the verge of collapse, as well as live electricity supplies and even flooding. Kelly Crockett added: “These buildings can also be used for illegal activities such as drug taking which increases the danger of used needles laying around and there is also the risk that homeless people may be using these buildings to sleep and shelter – which potentially puts their lives at risk as well in the event of a fire. “Derelict buildings can often pose a danger to our attending crews and officers, so we are urging people not to explore these buildings due to the risks posed to the emergency services.” Landlords can find out more information on their responsibilities at the following web page: Landlord Fire Safety Law and your responsibilities – Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service (northantsfire.gov.uk) If you have any information about a deliberately started fire at a derelict building, then you should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or complete the online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org If you see a fire in progress, you should call 999 and ask for the Fire Service.

August 13, 2024

Employability Hub extended at Weston Favell Library

13 August 2024 West Northamptonshire Council will be extending its Employability Hub service in Weston Favell following a successful launch earlier this year . Teaming up with Weston Favell Library, the dedicated service aims to assist local people in finding jobs and volunteer opportunities as well as providing a range of other services. Attendees at the drop-in session will be able to access support with: Job searching - including vacancies within the shopping centre CV writing Building confidence Interview skills and techniques Getting started Money advice Organised by the Northampton East Local Area Partnership (LAP), sessions will run every 6 weeks with the first one taking place on Friday 23 August, from 10am to 2pm at Weston Favell Library, located in the Weston Favell Shopping Centre. The sessions are free and available to anyone seeking employment over 18 years of age. The hub is inclusive to everybody including those with learning disabilities (LD) and Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and will benefit from support via WNC’s Learning, Independence, Volunteering, and Employment (LIVE) Team , who will also support businesses to become more inclusive by taking practical steps to welcome a more diverse workforce. "Extending the Employability Hub at Weston Favell Library is a testament to our commitment to supporting residents in their journey to employment and personal growth. “This initiative is about more than just finding jobs, it’s about empowering individuals with the skills, confidence, and resources they need to thrive. We’re especially proud that this hub is inclusive to all, providing tailored support to ensure everyone has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or abilities. “I encourage anyone seeking employment or looking to improve their career prospects to take advantage of the free support on offer." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure For further enquires, get in touch with us at [email protected] . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 13, 2024

Explore West Northamptonshire’s rich history and heritage this September

13 August 2024 Everyone is invited to explore West Northamptonshire’s historical heritage this September with the two-week Heritage Open Days festival taking place between 6 and 15 September. Heritage Open Days will be celebrated by attractions across the whole of the county, with a wealth of buildings of historic interest, stately homes, museums, and places of worship taking part in the 30th anniversary of England’s largest annual festival of history and culture. This year, Silverstone Museum will make its debut offering visitors free entry to discover the adrenaline-fueled history of British motor racing. A locally produced film about Northampton’s historic Market Square will be showcased at the Guildhall, and Northampton college students will be bringing their heritage roadshow to town. There will also be fun town centre quiz trails taking place in Northampton, Brackley, Daventry and Towcester. The festival offers the public free entry to places which might normally be closed or have an entrance fee, and where admission is charged, venues will offer something new to see, with many connected by Northampton Transport Heritage buses’ free hop-on hop-off service. This year’s event will utilise the theme Routes, Networks & Connections to bring together the past and present with workshops, walks, talks, hidden spaces, and activities for all the family, with the aim of making the heritage festival more diverse than ever before. Funded by West Northamptonshire Council, Northampton’s famous heritage red Daimler double-decker buses, which have appeared every year since 1994, will once again be running out of George Row in Northampton town centre on Saturday 14 September, transporting passengers to attractions in Northampton and beyond for free. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is an official promoter of the event and a list of all participating attractions and events can be found on the Council website , which will be updated regularly as more attractions register, including details and timetables for the heritage bus services. "Heritage Open Days is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to explore and celebrate the rich history and culture of West Northamptonshire and beyond. “We're excited to welcome visitors from far and wide to discover the hidden gems, historical landmarks, and vibrant stories that make our county unique. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a great day out with the family, we invite you to join us in exploring the fascinating heritage of all of Northamptonshire – there really is something for everyone!" Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Heritage Open Days is organised by the National Trust and run by thousands of local organisations and volunteers across England. The aim of the festival is to encourage people to learn more about the area in which they live. Please note some attractions and events will require booking. A full programme of events, with details of dates, times and how to book, can be found on the Heritage Open Days webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 13, 2024

Thousands attend successful Daventry Emergency Services Fun Day

13 August 2024 Nearly 3,000 visitors of all ages enjoyed a day of entertainment and demonstrations in Daventry last week as part of the annual Operation Unite Emergency Services Fun Day. Taking place at Danetre and Southbrook Learning Village on Wednesday 7 August, visitors enjoyed a range of free activities and saw demonstrations by emergency services teams, as well as stalls and games, a chance to see police and fire vehicles up-close, and free burgers and refreshments provided by the Rapid Relief Team. The event was organised by the West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership under the Daventry Operation Unite banner, which includes Northamptonshire Police, West Northamptonshire Council, Daventry Town Council, Cummins, DSLV and Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service. Organisations attending on the day included Public Health, RE-Solve, the Emergency Service Cadets, GYM (Guiding Young Minds), Daventry Leisure Centre, Community First Responders, local housing associations and many more. "We're thrilled by the overwhelming turnout and positive feedback from this year's Operation Unite Fun Day in Daventry. It was a fantastic opportunity for the community to connect with our dedicated emergency services teams, learn about their critical work, and enjoy a day full of activities and demonstrations. “This annual event truly highlights the strong partnerships we have in place across West Northamptonshire, and we look forward to continuing to build on this success in the years to come." Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at WNC Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 14, 2024

Views sought to lower the age range at Hunsbury Park Primary School

14 August 2024 Residents are being asked for their views on proposals to lower the age range for Hunsbury Park Primary School, Northampton to include early years children. Widening the age range from 4-11 years to 2-11 years will enable the school to take over the running of the Early Years provision and Out of School Club, located on site which is being closed due to unforeseen circumstances. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is working with the school to ask the local community for their views on the proposals through a consultation which will run from Tuesday 13 August to Monday 10 September. Click here to view the proposals and have your say. Following the consultation period, feedback will be collated at considered by WNC’s cabinet, and it is anticipated that the nursery will re-open from Monday 23 September. This will bridge the gap in provision for 2-11-year-olds in the local area and ensure continuity of service for families and the community. Hunsbury Park Primary School propose to continue running the previous term time, full day care model, offering flexible patterns to meet the needs of the working demographic. They will operate between 8am and 5:30pm, Monday to Friday and will offer 24 full time equivalent funded early education entitlement (FEEE) places to 2 to 4-year-olds and an out of school club for 4-11 years. To support a robust handover and to meet staffing requirements, the school will be providing a staged approach by offering pre-school (3-year old's) morning and afternoon sessions in the first academic year (2024/25) and extended full nursery sessions to 2 and 3-year-olds in the second academic year (2025/26). "Due to exceptional circumstances, we are taking swift action to work with the school to seek the views of local residents to lower the age from 4 to 2 years old at Hunsbury Park Primary School. We want to ensure that local families can continue to access the early years and wrapround provision in the area due to the sudden closure of Campers and that any disruption is absolutely minimised.” Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at WNC WNC is responsible for ensuring there is a sufficiency of early years places across West Northamptonshire. It is also legally obliged to conduct a period of consultation on this proposal as part of the statutory decision-making process. Following the public consultation, WNC will collate and review all the responses received. The results will be analysed, and an assessment made on whether to proceed with the proposal. All stakeholder views expressed will be given full consideration prior to any future decisions being made. The report outlining the summary of the consultation responses will be considered by WNC’s cabinet on 17 September, councillors will then decide on the next steps. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 12, 2024

Share your views on pharmaceutical services across West Northamptonshire

12 August 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is working with North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) to review pharmacy services that are available in the county, what services people need, and to identify what might need improving. This process is called a pharmaceutical needs assessment (PNA) which is a vital part of how we go about understanding needs, issues, and ways to make improvements. WNC Public Health teams are inviting local residents and businesses to help inform this assessment which will shape the future of pharmacy services across the area. A pharmacy, also known as a chemist, is a place you would go to: to collect a prescription to buy medicines to talk to a pharmacist for advice about your illnesses or medication This assessment does not include any pharmacy in a hospital, or somewhere you shop to buy anything other than medicine, for example, beauty products. The public consultation opened on Monday, 5 August for people to review the proposals and give their views until midnight on 6 October. Click here to view the consultation . “Pharmacies are often the first point of contact for our communities when accessing medication and medical advice. We are keen to hear the view of our local residents, businesses and partners on pharmacy services across West Northamptonshire so that we can better understand how people access our services, and how we can develop them to meet their needs". Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at WNC, The results of the survey will be analysed and reported within a draft PNA. The final report will be published in Spring 2025 and will be available on our Joint Strategic Needs Assessments webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 12, 2024

Help shape the approach to tackling climate change in West Northants

12 August 2024 People are being encouraged to share their views to help West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) develop a climate change strategy for the area. The strategy will detail the actions WNC will take to reduce locally produced greenhouse gas emissions and become better prepared for climate change. The Council has already set the target of achieving Net Zero across West Northants by 2045, five years ahead of the Government’s target. “We want to hear from local residents, businesses and stakeholders to make sure that the strategy meets the needs of our whole community. “We have identified a range of priorities we believe will help reduce the impact of climate change across our area, but we need you to let us know if we are focusing on the right things.” Cllr Rebecca Breese, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste Have your say by midnight on Sunday, 15 September by visiting our consultation hub. Members of our Sustainability Team will also be at Northampton Balloon Festival on Friday, 16 and Saturday 17, August 10am to 2pm and are keen to hear the thoughts of those attending the event. Responses from this engagement will be used to inform the development of the final strategy and there will be an opportunity to feedback on this when it is produced later this year. It will then be presented to Council in 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 08, 2024

Balance sheet disaggregation will allow councils to move forward with finances

08 August 2024 The split of the former Northamptonshire County Council’s balance sheet has now been finalised and agreed. A paper before North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive next week will decide how the capital financing requirement and capital adjustment account will be divided between the authority and neighbouring West Northamptonshire Council. A similar decision will also be taken by West Northamptonshire Council next week . The focus of reaching this position was to ensure that this did not cause any financial distress to either party and this will allow both councils to begin finalising their accounts. “Coming to a position of mutual agreement on the final balance sheet for the former county council was a complex task and I’m delighted that we can now move forward from this significant milestone in our unitary journey. “I’d like to thank everyone for their hard work and determination on this and we will continue to develop our close connections with our friends in West Northamptonshire, further enhancing our collaborative working.” Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council “This was no simple task and I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who worked so closely and constructively to bring this to a satisfactory resolution for both councils. “This means we can all move forward, begin to finalise our accounts and continue to build on and foster the excellent working relationships we’ve managed to develop with North Northamptonshire over the recent period.” Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council On March 31, 2021 Northamptonshire County Council and the district and borough councils in Northamptonshire ceased and were replaced with two new unitary councils. While the district and borough councils’ balance sheets have been aggregated Northamptonshire County Council’s balance sheet needed to be split or disaggregated between WNC and NNC. The high-level principles for splitting the balance sheet were agreed by both shadow authorities prior to vesting day. While most balances on the former county council’s balance sheet were able to be disaggregated based on the agreed principles there were a number of balances which were technically more difficult to allocate. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 10, 2024

Local Resilience Forum joint statement

The Northamptonshire Local Resilience Forum (LRF), which brings together emergency services, local authority, NHS and other partners to plan and prepare for localised incidents and emergencies, has issued a joint message, thanking communities for their support and solidarity during the events of recent days… “This has been a difficult and challenging week for our communities across Northamptonshire, in particular Northampton, where protests, thankfully peaceful, took place on Wednesday evening. “We have seen a huge amount of cooperation between all the emergency services, local authority, health partners and the community, and it can’t be underestimated how much work went into making sure the risk to the public was minimised. “We are immensely grateful to our communities who came together to work with us, and for the support they showed our police and emergency services as they worked hard to ensure public safety. There was some really positive engagement with all those who came together to show their solidarity.” “We would also like to thank all the police officers, firefighters, council, health and other colleagues for their professionalism, dedication and commitment, throughout this challenging week and beyond, in helping to keep our county and those who live and work here safe. “Alongside the extensive policing operation, firefighters and community safety colleagues were out in the community giving advice and any reassurance they could to residents and businesses, and council teams were on the ground making sure the environment was debris free and as safe as possible. “Organisations being able to respond and support communities in a speedy, joined up way is what people have every right to expect, and it was good to see people working together in this way. “We know residents will still be feeling concerned in the light of this week’s events and the ongoing national picture but want to reassure them all partners are continuing to work together doing everything possible to keep our communities safe.” Thank you for your support. Northamptonshire Police Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service West Northamptonshire Council North Northamptonshire Council Northamptonshire Health Foundation Trust University Hospitals of Northamptonshire Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board East Midlands Ambulance Service

August 09, 2024

Drop-in sessions to help shape local transport across our area

09 August 2024 A new plan is being developed that outlines what local transport will look like in West Northants over the next 20 years. The Local Transport Plan details a range of proposals, 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 Achieve net zero. Residents, businesses and community groups are being invited to help shape the plan and join one of the upcoming in person or online sessions. A series of drop-in events are being held across the area and online on the following dates: Tuesday 13 August, 9am to midday at Daventry Market Square, High Street Friday 16 August, 9am to midday at Brackley Market, The Piazza Wednesday 21 August, 10am to 11.30am, online Thursday 22 August, 9am to noon at The Grosvenor Centre, Northampton Monday 23 September, 10am to 11.30am online Friday 11 October, 9am to midday at Towcester Farmers Market, Richmond Road For joining instructions to the online sessions, please email [email protected] . The consultation closes on Thursday, 17 October and people can have their say by visiting our consultation hub. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 09, 2024

Northamptonshire Local Resilience Forum (LRF) thanks communities for their support during the events of recent days

09 August 2024 The Northamptonshire Local Resilience Forum (LRF), which brings together emergency services, local authority, NHS and other partners to plan and prepare for localised incidents and emergencies, has issued a joint message thanking communities for their support and solidarity during the events of recent days. “This has been a difficult and challenging week for our communities across Northamptonshire, in particular Northampton, where protests, thankfully peaceful, took place on Wednesday evening. “We have seen a huge amount of cooperation between all the emergency services, local authority, health partners and the community, and it can’t be underestimated how much work went into making sure the risk to the public was minimised. “We are immensely grateful to our communities who came together to work with us, and for the support they showed our police and emergency services as they worked hard to ensure public safety. There was some really positive engagement with all those who came together to show their solidarity.” “We would also like to thank all the police officers, firefighters, council, health and other colleagues for their professionalism, dedication and commitment, throughout this challenging week and beyond, in helping to keep our county and those who live and work here safe. “Alongside the extensive policing operation, firefighters and community safety colleagues were out in the community giving advice and any reassurance they could to residents and businesses, and council teams were on the ground making sure the environment was debris free and as safe as possible. “Organisations being able to respond and support communities in a speedy, joined up way is what people have every right to expect, and it was good to see people working together in this way. “We know residents will still be feeling concerned in the light of this week’s events and the ongoing national picture but want to reassure them all partners are continuing to work together doing everything possible to keep our communities safe.” The Northamptonshire Local Resilience Forum (LRF) Thank you for your support. Northamptonshire Police Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service West Northamptonshire Council North Northamptonshire Council Northamptonshire Health Foundation Trust University Hospitals of Northamptonshire Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board East Midlands Ambulance Service Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 09, 2024

Youth Forum to take over social media for International Youth Day

09 August 2024 The Northampton Youth Forum are set to take over West Northamptonshire Council’s social media pages to address a number of societal topics as part of International Youth Day on Monday 12 August. As part of their planned content, the Youth Forum members will produce a series of graphics and TikTok videos addressing discrimination and common stereotypes including judging people by how they look and assumptions made about people due to their age or ethnicity. The Youth Forum is Northampton’s youth council, made up of representatives aged 13 to 19 years old from schools and youth organisations across the town. The forum members aim to speak up for, and on behalf of young people and take an active part in decision making about young people by: identifying and tackling issues of importance to young people helping to make sure that young people get to have services and facilities in Northampton that they want seeking the views of young people and promoting opportunities to get involved and have their say West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is currently working with members of the Youth Forum to expand the forum and include young people from all areas across West Northants. International Youth Day is held each year on 12 August and is an initiative that celebrates the qualities of young people and that recognises the challenges that today’s youth can face. First recognised in 2000, the day is organised by the United Nations to celebrate the contribution that young people make in education, employment, conflict resolution and social justice. "We are pleased to support the Northampton Youth Forum as they take over our social media pages for International Youth Day. “This initiative highlights the great contributions and perspectives of young people in our community. By addressing important societal topics such as discrimination and stereotypes, the Youth Forum is giving a voice to the youth and fostering a more inclusive and understanding society. “We believe in the power of young people to drive positive change and are excited to see the creative content they will produce. We encourage everyone to engage with and support the Youth Forum's efforts on 12 August and beyond." Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at WNC Find out more about the Youth Forum on the WNC website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 09, 2024

Drug warning and guidance issued by Northamptonshire's Combatting Drugs and Alcohol Partnership

09 August 2024 Northamptonshire's Combatting Drugs and Alcohol Partnership, which is made up of, Police, health organisations, local drug and alcohol services, and North and West Northamptonshire Councils, is issuing a warning about the latest dangerous drugs in circulation in the county and across the UK. The Partnership has been alerted to an increasing number of incidents in recent months where drug users have experienced very poor health from taking street drugs, including heroin and cocaine, requiring emergency medical treatment. The new group of drugs called synthetic opioids, sometimes known as Nitazenes, pose a substantial risk of overdose, drug-related hospitalisation, and drug-related death. The synthetic opioids are combined with street drugs, including heroin, which users may not be aware contains Nitazene. Anyone taking drugs is urged to take extra care and to alert the family and friends of those using street drugs to the danger of synthetic opioids. Naloxone is a drug that can reverse the effects of opioids, such as heroin, methadone, opium, codeine, morphine, and buprenorphine. Giving Naloxone to someone who is overdosing on opioids can even save their life if it's used soon after they've overdosed and before emergency help arrives. The effects of Naloxone don't last very long, so it's vital always to call 999 and ask for emergency help when you use it. If you think someone is overdosing but you aren't sure what they've taken, you can still give them Naloxone. It won't hurt them, and it could help them. Click here to find out more about accessing Naloxone and drug and alcohol services in Northamptonshire. Jane Bethea, Chair of the Northamptonshire Combatting Drugs and Alcohol Partnership and North Northamptonshire Council's Director of Public Health said: "Colleagues across the Northamptonshire Combatting Drugs and Alcohol Partnership want to ensure we protect people from harm by raising awareness of the dangerous drugs circulating in Northamptonshire and across the UK because of the devastating impact they can have. "Our first priority is to prevent people from taking street drugs and providing support for their addiction. However, we must warn people about the serious harm caused by synthetic opioids and ensure they know how to minimise the harm they cause. If you are a drug user in Northamptonshire, please do not use drugs alone as it poses a potential risk to your health. Carry the rescue medication naloxone and share this guidance with family and friends." There are services across Northamptonshire which provide treatment for drug users and those recovering from addiction, and this includes adults and young people. We urge anyone with any information or concerns about drugs in their community to call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Det Supt Steve Watkins, head of Central Intelligence at Northamptonshire Police, said: "We are committed to tackling drug dealers in the county that push these drugs on some of the most vulnerable people. No illegal drugs are safe, but these synthetic opioids are particularly deadly and make it impossible to know how someone might react to the drug, leading to unintentional overdose. As a force, we continue to work with partners to protect the public from drug harm as well as disrupting the supply of drugs into Northamptonshire." Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 07, 2024

The South Midlands Authorities is recruiting members to join the new Business Board

07 August 2024 Business leaders in West Northamptonshire are being sought to join a new Board that advise local authorities on the economic growth and development of the South Midlands. Created as part of the South Midlands Authorities, a new partnership of six local authorities covering the region, the Business Board will play an important role in giving businesses a clear voice towards shaping future economic strategy and ensuring that priorities align with the needs and opportunities of businesses across the area. The South Midlands Authorities is seeking up to 15 representatives from growth key sectors including construction, logistics and healthcare, rural representatives and SME representatives. Those interested in learning more about the South Midlands Business Board, and the available roles, should download the Recruitment pack, found here > Business Board Recruitment | Growth Hub (semlepgrowthhub.com) “Businesses of all sizes play a critical role in driving economic growth and delivering jobs for local people. It’s important that we have representatives from various sectors at the decision-making table, so we can work together to create thriving local economies, improve skills and support young people into work. It’s a fantastic opportunity for business representatives to get involved and I look forward to working with a motivated and enthusiastic board to deliver on our priorities.” Cllr Pete Marland, Co-Chair of the South Midlands Authorities and Leader of MK City Council “The Business Board is the culmination of the hard work that has gone into ensuring the South Midlands Authorities has greater business representation. “It will provide an important opportunity for business leaders across the six local authority areas to influence decision-making at an executive level, challenge conventional thinking, and become the voice for their peers. The Board will enable all councils to receive direct and invaluable feedback from business representatives from across the region, ensuring that our economic growth plans reflect the needs of businesses. I look forward to the recruitment process and announcing the new members to the Business Board in due course.” Cllr Jim Weir, Business Board Lead and Deputy Mayor of Bedford Borough Council For more information, please contact [email protected] Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 07, 2024

September focus for next phase towards improving SEND assessments

07 August 2024 Priority work on improving services for children with special needs and disabilities (SEND) in West Northamptonshire continues to progress, with extra staff starting next month to focus on tackling the increased demand for education health and care plans (EHCPs). Seven dedicated EHC caseworkers will be joining West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) at the start of the new school year in September to improve the timeliness and quality of these pivotal assessments for families requesting SEND support. The work is a key area for improvement identified in the recent Ofsted inspection of West Northamptonshire’s SEND Partnership, which highlighted significant concerns about the services currently provided to children and their families in the area. The Council is working with partners to progress a broad range of actions to address the report’s findings, and also recently committed to increasing capacity of its SEND team to help meet the unprecedented demand for the services – having experienced in its first few years as a council a 40 per cent increase in EHCP requests (an increase of over 1,000). Work is already under way to address the issues, with WNC also recently commissioning a team of Educational Psychologists to support with overdue EHC assessments, setting a positive trajectory for improvement. Although there is still much work to do, the additional resource is starting to make an impact, with 42% of EHCPs issued within the 20-week statutory timescale in June 2024 – a significant increase from the 2023 average of 6%. 139 plans have been issued since the start of the priority action plan, with 20.1% of these issued within 20 weeks. The Partnership is now focusing on several priority actions that require urgent attention to address the findings of the report . “We are committed to working hard with all our partners on better outcomes for SEND children and their families and delivering the priority action plan for improving services. “We fully accept the findings of the recent Ofsted inspection and apologise to children, young people and their families where we have fallen short. We know we are still in the very early days of our improvement journey with many families not yet able to feel the impact of this work, but it’s encouraging to see we are making gradual, positive progress in addressing our challenges, particularly around our unprecedented EHCP caseloads. “With seven additional caseworkers joining the service in September we anticipate we’ll continue on the current trajectory to further increase the number of ECHPs issued within the statutory timescale.” Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at WNC Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 06, 2024

West Northamptonshire stage route announced for Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men

06 August 2024 The route for the first ever stage of the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men cycle race to take place in West Northamptonshire has today been revealed. Stage five, the penultimate leg of the 2024 race, will take place on Saturday 7 September, starting from the University of Northampton and finishing at the Guildhall on Northampton’s Derngate after 147 kilometres (91 miles) of racing through the area, including Daventry and nearly 30 villages. Along the way the race will pass through Daventry, followed by a loop south of the town through villages including Abthorpe, Wappenham, Helmdon, Culworth, Byfield and Hellidon, before looping around Northampton via Watford, West Haddon, Naseby, Kelmarsh and Brixworth for the approach to the finish via Sywell and Ecton. During the stage riders will tackle a pair of categorised King of the Mountains climbs at Newnham Hill and Bulls Hill, just south of Daventry, and an intermediate sprint at Holcot, at the eastern end of the Pitsford Water causeway. "We are incredibly excited to host the first-ever stage of the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men in West Northamptonshire. This prestigious event will not only showcase our beautiful region to a global audience but also bring the community together in celebration of sports and local pride. “The route, winding through our historic towns and scenic countryside, offers a thrilling challenge for the riders and a spectacular experience for spectators. We invite everyone to join us for a day of excitement and to cheer on the cyclists as they race towards the finish line in Northampton's vibrant town centre." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure “The University’s purpose is to create social impact, and sport can have the same transformative effect on people’s lives. “It is an honour to host the Men’s Tour of Britain and I look forward to welcoming the athletes and fans to watch the start at our beautiful Waterside Campus.” UON Vice Chancellor, Professor Anne-Marie Kilday “We are looking forward to welcoming the riders and supporters to Northampton. The event provides an opportunity to showcase the county to a wider audience while attracting higher levels of football into our town centre, which is great news for our businesses.” Mark Mullen, Operations Manager for Northampton BID "The penultimate stage of this year's race is in area new to the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men, which is always exciting as it means that the majority of the peloton will be unfamiliar with the roads that we will be using. With the stage being on a Saturday and its central location, we are expecting a lot of fans to be at the roadside to cheer the riders on. "With the start on the University of Northampton's Waterside Campus so close to the finish line in the town centre, it will make for a great location for fans of all ages to come down and see the start and finish of the stage and to make a day out of it, so we would like to thank our partners at West Northamptonshire Council and the University of Northampton for making this possible." Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Race Director Rod Ellingworth The stage will get underway at 11am from the University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus, where a full day of activities and entertainment is planned, including race coverage on big screens, just a short walk away from the town centre finish location. The stage is expected to finish with a sprint in Northampton town centre between 14:23 and 15:05. While it is the first time that the men’s Tour has come to Northampton, the town’s Derngate hosted the first ever stage finish of the women’s Tour, won by Swedish rider Emma Johansson, in May 2014, and Daventry in West Northamptonshire has twice also hosted the women’s race, with a start in 2017 and a stage finish in 2018, won by Coryn Labecki. The Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men begins in the Scottish Borders on Tuesday 3 September followed by stages in the Tees Valley, South Yorkshire and East Midlands. Following the West Northamptonshire stage the race concludes in Suffolk on Sunday 8 September after six days of racing. More details of the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men, including the detailed stage timings and competing teams will be announcing in the coming weeks. Fans wanting to enjoy the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men with premium experiences, can now get closer to the action with hospitality, in-car places, and exclusive helicopter packages, now available via Sportive Breaks here . The full list of areas included in the stage five route are: Northampton Nobottle Whilton Locks Norton Daventry Preston Capes Little Preston Maidford Blakesley Abthorpe Wappenham Helmdon Thorpe Mandeville Culworth Byfield Charwelton Hellidon Catesby Welton Watford West Haddon Cold Ashby Naseby Kelmarsh Harrington Lamport Scaldwell Pitsford Holcot Sywell Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 06, 2024

One person per scooter!

06 August 2024 Only one person on a scooter at a time - this is the message from West Northamptonshire Council, North Northamptonshire Council, Northamptonshire Police and e-scooter operator Voi. The four organisations are joining forces to urge e-scooter riders to follow the one person per scooter rule. Only the person who hires a Voi rental e-scooter using their own account is allowed to ride the e-scooter. Anyone caught taking a passenger on a scooter could face a lifetime ban from Voi. Multiple riders on a scooter could also face prosecution, including fines and points on their driving licence. If there is a road accident involving more than one person on a single scooter, Voi’s insurers may look to recoup any third party payouts from all riders. “The Voi scheme provides a cost-effective and sustainable way for people across Northampton to travel for work and leisure. Generally, riders are sensible and follow the rules by riding alone. However, unfortunately there are others who continue to put themselves and others in danger by riding with more than one person per e-scooter. “We support Voi in cracking down severely on those who abuse the scheme. We need to work together to improve and ensure the safety of everyone. Therefore, we urge anyone who witnesses more than one person riding a Voi e-scooter to report it so that strong action can be taken against those breaking the rules.” Cllr Phil Larratt, West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport “An e-scooter is not a toy. It is a vehicle designed to be ridden on the roads and therefore must be treated with care and responsibility. “Anyone riding one in tandem is putting both riders as well as other road users at risk of serious injury or worse. “Please look after yourselves and others by riding the Voi e-scooters in accordance with the rules.” Matt O’Connell, Safer Roads Team Strategic Manager for Northamptonshire Police “The e-scooter trials are about seeing what is working and what needs to be improved. On this occasion, we’re targeting multiple riders on one e-scooter, something we see far too often on the streets across Northamptonshire. Most e-scooter riders are sensible and follow the rules, keeping everyone safe, but there are a minority who break the rules, and we are urging users to stick to one rider per scooter or risk a ban and prosecution. “I would urge anyone who spots multiple riders on a single Voi e-scooter to report the incident online or via email.” Cllr Matt Binley, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets “Our e-scooters are designed to be ridden by one person only. They are a safe, affordable and sustainable way of getting around - but we are reminding riders that the rule is always one person per scooter.” Jim Hubbard, Senior Policy Manager for Voi UK Voi has fined or banned 70 people for riding one of the company’s scooters with more than one person on board this year. Anyone who spots one of Voi’s coral-coloured e-scooters being ridden by more than one person can report it to Voi or email [email protected] , giving details of the time, location and if possible the scooter’s four-digit registration number, so that Voi can investigate and take action. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 05, 2024

Save the date: help celebrate the opening of Northampton Market Square, reimagined

05 August 2024 Residents and communities across West Northamptonshire are invited to come together to celebrate the official grand opening of the revitalised Northampton Market Square this October, as West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Northampton Forward celebrate the transformation of this beloved community space ensuring it can be enjoyed by future generations to come. Taking place across Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October 2024, WNC will host a community celebration filled with a whole host of fun activities for all the family, including creative musical and cultural performances, historic and heritage exhibitions, and an array of amazing food and drink from a variety of local businesses and vendors. £30,000 of Government funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) has been allocated towards activities for the family weekend. Market traders and local businesses will also be offering a wide range of fresh local produce, gifts, services, food, and drink during the weekend. Drawing on Northampton’s rich history, the regenerated space complements the wider transformation of the town centre, featuring high-quality market stalls, improved seating and lighting, enhanced paving and an interactive water feature, creating a sustainable, accessible and inclusive space for everyone to enjoy. The scheme is being funded through the Government led Towns Fund, which is overseen by Northampton Forward ; a public and private partnership made up of key organisations across the area. "Northampton is home to one of Europe’s longest running outdoor market, and we are excited to invite residents and communities from across West Northamptonshire to join us for the grand opening of the reimagined Northampton Market Square to celebrate the rich history of the site and see first-hand the revitalised space. “We have planned a weekend full of exciting activities, performances, and local flavours, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. Come and be part of this unmissable celebration and witness the beginning of a new chapter for our vibrant community." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure, WNC is supported by key local organisations to deliver this event, including Northampton Forward, Northampton Business Improvement District (BID) and Northampton Town Council. "We are really excited to commemorate this significant milestone in the transformation of our town as Market Square officially reopens to the public. The event will provide an opportunity to see the regeneration first-hand, support local businesses and traders and join in the family-fun. I'd encourage everyone to save the date and join us for this exciting weekend." Martin Mason, Chair of Northampton Forward Board and Managing Director of Trickers Shoes Once open, the rejuvenated space will invigorate the local economy, provide new opportunities for local businesses and attract visitors to the area while providing a vibrant and accessible venue for regular markets, community events, and social gatherings, enriched with a variety of cultural and social activities. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 05, 2024

Five-year strategy for unpaid carers across West Northamptonshire to be rolled out

05 August 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has adopted a five-year strategy which sets out the vision to support unpaid carers across the area, helping them to find a balance between their caring responsibilities and maintaining their own health and lifestyle. A carer is someone who selflessly offers unpaid assistance to their partner, family member, friend or neighbour who may be unwell, have a disability or struggle without this essential help. The carers strategy (2024-29) is for all unpaid carers that live in, or care for someone that lives in West Northants, and has been developed together with local carers, ensuring their voices drive forward progress over the next few years to provide the right support and information for them. Chosen by our local carers, 17 priorities have been identified to focus on improving over the next five years as well as specific measurements to track progress. Each one has a set of actions that will support with achieving the priority over the five-year period. “Daunting, fear, confusion, research, advocate, crazily passionate, compassion, respect, and results. All these describes what carers feel every day, so having the privilege to be part of a co-production team that embraced the above and turned it into a great strategy for our own carers, what a great accomplishment! Our vision was to take a little of the frustration and sense of helplessness and turn it into a new strategy that will help clarify what that role is, how to attain the help needed and challenge the stigma and stereotyping of what a carer knows and understands about the person in their care. The greatest inheritance and legacy bridging all generations.” Pat Marshall, a carer with experience who has helped to shape the strategy “We fully recognise the invaluable contribution of our carers, and we are delighted to have worked with them to develop this five-year strategy. By working collaboratively with carers, the strategy reflects the support they need to 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 Work is now underway to roll-out the priorities set out in year one which include: a One-Stop Shop delivered in all of our Local Area Partnerships (LAPs) for carers to meet other carers, find support and be given information develop and provide a carer guide in both written format and available on an app find hidden carers who are people that do not yet recognise themselves as a carer and offer them support. Over the next five-years WNC will work with North Northamptonshire Council and health colleagues to deliver the ambitions set out in the strategy and ensure that carers receive the support they need. Click here to find out more about support for carers across West Northamptonshire and view the five-year strategy. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 05, 2024

Community projects in West Northants awarded £1.4 million to enhance skills and grow local economy

05 August 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has awarded £1.4 million in grant funding to a wide range of projects, including 24 community organisations to support initiatives focused on enhancing local skills, addressing critical needs, and fostering positive change within the community. Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the People and Skills Grant funding is designed to empower individuals and grassroots organisations by providing the resources needed to cultivate essential skills and foster a resilient workforce equipped to meet evolving needs and drive economic growth. The largest part of the skills programme is an initiative called “Skills for Communities”, providing community organisations with funding to deliver innovative skills projects. The successful grant recipients were selected through a competitive process based on their innovative approaches and potential for significant community impact. The funded projects cover a wide range of areas, including Not in Education; Employment or Training (NEET); Digital Literacy, Science Technology Engineering Maths (STEM), English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Literacy at Work; and inclusive recruitment. Support on offer will include one to one personalised coaching to help people get back into work, help for families in crisis, increased volunteering opportunities, therapeutic sessions to support adults’ mental health and emotional wellbeing, and a programme to tackle social exclusion in young people. “The 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. “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 local skills and providing new opportunities for local people." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure The primary objectives of the People and Skills Grant Funding program include: Enhancing Workforce Skills and providing targeted training programs to help individuals acquire new competencies and advance their career and employment prospects, such as Digital and Literacy Skills in the Workplace. Promoting Inclusivity by ensuring equitable access to skill development opportunities for underrepresented and disadvantaged groups, such as those for whom English is a second language (ESOL) or those looking to improve their levels of Literacy at Work. Supporting Innovation and encouraging the development of innovative solutions to address current and future skill needs, such as STEM Skills. Strengthening Community Resilience and building a robust and adaptable workforce that can thrive in a rapidly changing economic landscape, focusing on supporting individuals recovering from long-term health challenges or those leaving care to engage with employment opportunities and training. The funding has been awarded to a mix of voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations and specialist organisations to deliver specific pieces of work, including: Free to Talk CIC Volunteer It Yourself Learning & Skills Academy Northampton Hope Centre The Good Loaf Salvation Army Shudan CIC Dostiyo Asian Women and Girls Organisation Sport4Fitness CIC Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire Citizens Advice West Northants & Cherwell YMCA Northamptonshire Springs Family Centre Workbridge (St Andrew's Healthcare) Progressive World Vision CIC United African Association Doddridge Centre Limited Peak Empower Innovation CIC Sikh Community Centre & Youth Club (SCCYC) Future Toolbox Restore Northampton Lewis Foundation Tendered Services - Skills for Growth: Adult Learning Service Diversiti UK Learning Skills Academy Support Northants Silverstone Technology Cluster West Northants Employment Support Service For more information on funded projects or about our grant programs and any future funding opportunities, please visit WNC Funding and Allocations . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 01, 2024

Major Systems upgrade to improve services for residents

01 August 2024 Residents in West Northants can expect simplified and improved services through a major upgrade of Revenue and Benefits systems. West Northamptonshire Council is implementing an upgrade that will replace the Council's multiple previous Revenues and Benefits systems with a single, modern platform designed to simplify operations and improve the online experience for residents when interacting with the Council. With the upcoming system update, residents will be able to view all their benefits, council tax, business rates, and landlord accounts in one convenient portal, no matter where they live. Business rates customers in Northampton will be able to access their accounts online and sign up for e-billing. This system upgrade will also introduce Daventry residents to a new online housing benefit form, simplifying the application process like never before. As the Council undergoes the upgrade, the council tax, business rates and housing benefit systems will be temporarily unavailable from Tuesday, 13 August through Thursday, 5 September. During the upgrade, residents will be unable to access the customer portal and online forms. Throughout this period residents will be able to make Council Tax and Business Rates payments as usual. For residents with ongoing benefits claims and regular payments, these will continue unaffected. However, new claims and notifications of change submitted during closedown will be assessed after the upgrade is complete. While Customer Service Agents will still be available to support residents, their access to information will be limited. Residents are encouraged to only contact us for urgent matters during this time. "We aim to provide an efficient, user-friendly experience for our residents and businesses. The upgrade of our Revenue and Benefits Systems is an important step forward in modernising our systems to better serve our residents. This system upgrade is all about making your experience smoother, faster, and more convenient. We can’t wait for you to see the difference! "We appreciate everyone's understanding and cooperation as we work towards improving our services for the benefit of the West Northamptonshire community." Cllr Malcolm Longley, Cabinet Member for Finance Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 01, 2024

Views sought on future approach for driving forward West Northamptonshire’s Electric Vehicles Infrastructure

01 August 2024 People are being encouraged to share their views on plans to support the increase in electric vehicles (EVs) across West Northants, through developing and expanding the current charging infrastructure. One of the barriers to converting to an electric vehicle is being able to charge at home as well as when out and about. At some stage in the future petrol and diesel cars will no longer be produced so we want to ensure that we have infrastructure in place that works for as many people as possible. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is committed to working with partners to achieve net zero across the area by 2045 and has developed the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy which outlines how it will support the roll-out of charging infrastructure and help to address the climate challenge. Views are being sought to help shape the strategy that aims to: Have appropriate charging facilities for EVs Make sure charging networks are reliable, affordable, accessible and maintained Support decarbonisation policies Support economic growth Improve and make best use of land and assets available. Previous official figures on transport emissions for West Northants from 2020 showed they accounted for 45% of the total carbon emissions in the area, highlighting the importance of looking at further ways to reduce this. The EV strategy will align with the wider Local Transport Policy (LTP) for West Northamptonshire that details WNC’s overarching ambition for local transport in the future. The LTP is also currently being consulted on and people can help shape this via our consultation hub. The Council has already been awarded £409k following a successful application to the Government's local EV infrastructure (LEVI) Capability funding. This has been used to set up the Electric Vehicles Infrastructure Team that is leading the development of this strategy, the rollout of the infrastructure and its management, as required by the terms of the grant. WNC has also recently applied for £2.8m of funding from the LEVI Capital funding. The funding secured will help attract charge points operators (CPOs) to carry out the strategy. “We know that people not being able to access public charge points is a real barrier that is holding them back from using EVs so this strategy sets out how we plan to change this. “It’s really important we hear from residents, businesses and other stakeholders on these proposals and that they share with us any ideas and opportunities that we may not have thought of. This work will support the needs and aspirations of our communities in embracing greener transport and reducing their own carbon footprints whilst also contributing to the overall goal of achieving net zero across West Northants.” Cllr Rebecca Breese, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste and Recycling The consultation closes on Sunday, 1 September and people can have their say via our consultation hub. Responses to this consultation will be considered before the final strategy is produced. It will then be reviewed by stakeholders with an aim to present it to WNC’s Cabinet for approval in October 2024. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

August 01, 2024

Archaeological finds at Northampton’s Chalk Lane Car Park

01 August 2024 Large pieces of ironstone which may once have formed part of Northampton Castle have been uncovered by archaeologists working at the town's Chalk Lane Car Park. They were revealed by experts from MOLA (Museum of London Archaeology) during an initial investigation of the car park, ahead of its transformation to deliver a new heritage park for Northampton. Archaeologists from MOLA have carried out an initial investigation at Chalk Lane Car Park to discover more about the site’s history, carefully removing and preserving any artefacts discovered on site. Situated at the entrance of the town from Northampton’s railway station, the Marefair Heritage Park regeneration scheme will unlock this space, providing the local community with much needed green space. This area of the town is steeped in heritage and history and is where the Northampton Castle once stood. The park will see new pathways, lighting, a playground, green space, heritage timeline poles, community garden, together with new trees, shrubs and wildflowers to enhance biodiversity. Over a one-week period from 17 July, MOLA carried out a dig in the area where the heritage timeline poles are to be located. This revealed large pieces of Ironstone, likely quarried locally in Northamptonshire, which may relate to the demolition of Northampton castle in 1879. The remains of the castle were previously excavated in the 1960s, and Ironstone was identified in its construction. The Ironstone uncovered by the team during the recent excavations was mixed with brick and modern pottery and located next to the trenches dug by archaeologists in the 1960s. This suggests it is the remains of rubble removed by archaeologists during the last excavations, more than 50 years ago. The archaeologists also uncovered remains of a post-medieval wall belonging to a house built in the area while the castle ruins still stood. This, along with other excavations in the town centre, is helping us understand how the town developed around the castle in the centuries following the Civil War when its defences were removed. “The Council has long held ambitions to redevelop this area of the town to create a Heritage Park, an attractive, vibrant and modern destination at an important gateway position in the town centre. “As an exciting step of this regeneration scheme, it is great to be working with experts at MOLA to uncover the fascinating history in this part of our town. We look forward to continuing work with them to keep a watching brief on the project over the coming months as we bring forward this scheme.” Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council “As someone born and raised in Northampton, having the chance to excavate around such an important part of the town’s history is incredible. Seeing how the area developed over the centuries gives a greater understanding of the town’s past and the people who lived here.” Simon Markus, a Project Manager at MOLA Click here to find out more about the transformation of Northampton Town Centre and regeneration schemes across the town. Motorists are reminded Northampton’s Chalk Lane Car Park will be closed until 12 August to allow the Council and its contractors to reinstate the car park to a safe standard before reopening. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 31, 2024

Help us to shape leisure facilities in West Northants

31 July 2024 Residents are invited to share their views about leisure facilities and physical activity in West Northamptonshire to help us shape future services and provision. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is currently developing an Active Lives Strategy and looking at the future management of Council owned leisure centres in Northampton and Daventry to ensure the delivery of a high-quality service across our communities. To help us with this we are asking people to let us know how physically active they are and how physically active they would like to be at home, in the park, at sports clubs or at leisure centres. We would also like to know how residents feel about the Council’s leisure centres, the facilities themselves, the activities that go on in the centres and the priorities for the centres moving forward. Responses will help us to understand the needs of people in West Northants and develop an Active Lives Strategy which considers future leisure centre management. "We are excited to launch a public consultation to help shape the future of leisure centre provision in West Northamptonshire. “This is a valuable opportunity for residents to have their say on what facilities and services they would like to see in their local leisure centres and communities. “By gathering feedback, we aim to ensure that our leisure facilities and services meet the needs and preferences of all residents and promote health, wellness, and a vibrant community life. “We encourage everyone to participate and share their views, your input is crucial in helping us create leisure facilities that everyone can enjoy." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Please share your views by completing the online survey in the Council’s consultation hub before midnight on Sunday 15 September 2024. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 30, 2024

HMO Licensing consultation launches to enhance housing standards in West Northamptonshire

30 July 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is seeking residents’ views on a new proposed licensing scheme which includes additional licensing areas for homes in multiple occupation (HMOs). A HMO is a property where more than 3 people that form more than one household, rent a home, and share some facilities such as the kitchen or a bathroom in the home with the other tenants. HMOs can include: a house let as individual bed-sitting rooms a group of rooms on each floor let to single occupants hostels, some hotels and guesthouses lodgings and shared houses houses converted into self-contained flats The new scheme will be a continuation of the existing scheme introduced in 2020, but extended to include areas of new development, areas where the level of anti-social behaviour or property conditions indicate that further intervention is necessary, and to bring a closer alignment of the Additional Licensing designation to the Council’s Article 4 restrictions under the Town and Country Planning Act. A street list and map of the existing areas and proposed additional licensing areas can be viewed in the consultation documents. Landlords in the enhanced designated area will need to apply for a HMO licence, failure to do so could result in conviction and an unlimited fine through the courts or a civil penalty of up to £30,000 through the Council’s powers under the Housing and Planning Act 2016. They might also have to pay back up to a year’s rent to either the tenant, or the Council in the case of Housing Benefit, if a rent repayment order is applied for. "We are committed to enhancing the quality of housing in West Northamptonshire and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and well-maintained homes. “This consultation seeks to address issues related to the management and maintenance of HMOs. These properties play a crucial role in providing affordable housing, but they also present unique challenges in terms of safety, quality, and management. “We encourage landlords, tenants, and all community members to participate and share their views. Your feedback is essential in helping us shape a licensing scheme that meets the needs of our community and promotes high standards in housing." Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing The current Additional HMO Licensing scheme ends on 31 January 2025 and, if approved, the new additional five-year scheme will come into effect as soon as possible after 1 February 2025. The 10-week consultation aims to gather residents’ thoughts on these proposals as well as input on how to improve housing standards and ensure safe, well-maintained accommodation for everyone. WNC’s Cabinet will consider a report on the proposed scheme, including results from the consultation, at its meeting in November 2024. Residents and stakeholders are invited to provide their input by taking part in the survey via West Northamptonshire Council’s consultation hub before midnight on Monday 7 October. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 30, 2024

South Midlands Authorities launched to unite region and drive economic growth.

30 July 2024 Local leaders from across the South Midlands have joined forces, establishing a new group to champion economic growth by supporting businesses, improving skills, and enhancing career opportunities. The newly established South Midlands Authorities group represents the entire region, covering Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes City, North Northamptonshire, and West Northamptonshire councils. South Midlands Authorities will also oversee the work previously managed by the Central Area Growth Board, the Growth Hub and Careers Hub. The region is considered as a national leader in driving business growth and delivering job opportunities. It’s home to over 77,000 businesses which are already supported by local authority economic development teams and partners. The new partnership will ensure a more joined up approach so the whole region benefits from economic growth, with stronger opportunities available to unlock funding and attract investment into the region. The South Midlands Authorities will soon be launching their collaborative branding and simplified new web platform, enabling users to access business advice, skills knowledge and careers support all in one place. Business support is available to all businesses in Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, Milton Keynes, North and West Northamptonshire including: the South Midlands Growth Hub – who provide free business support and advice, access to grant funding, and an extensive resource library to every business across the area. the South Midlands Careers Hub – who work with employers and careers leaders in schools and colleges, to provide career insights and guidance to young people and help prepare them for their transition from education to the workplace to improve careers outcomes for young people. South Midlands Authorities will also be recruiting for a Business Board to support the economic work across the local authority areas and ensure a strong business voice for the area. For more information see: https://www.semlepgrowthhub.com/business-board-recruitment/ “We need strong partnerships like these to drive economic growth and boost job prospects in our city and across the region. Along with our neighbours, we’re proud to be leading the way and delivering for our businesses. However, we cannot be complacent, and this partnership shows our collective motivation to boost the region’s economic prospects, improve skills and support young people into work. "The South Midlands Growth Hub, and the South Midlands Careers Hub have worked tirelessly to support businesses and schools, while actively collaborating with business partners. With the Careers Hub and the Growth Hub united under the South Midlands Authorities, it will enable this work to continue, strengthening relationships between the six local authorities to boost growth regionally.” Cllr Pete Marland, Co-Chair of the South Midlands Authorities and Leader of MK City Council “This partnership between our six local authorities reflects the increasingly strong relationships we are developing to drive economic growth and investment across our region. “Having recently taken on the hosting of the South Midlands Growth Hub and Careers Hub we’re excited to be part of this new partnership and pleased to be steering this important work forward on behalf of all partners.” Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council “This development showcases the important role the South Midlands Growth Hub has in supporting businesses to overcome their challenges, realise their potential, and generate growth. In the past year alone, we have awarded over £1.9 million to businesses across the region. The launch of the South Midlands Authority enables us to continue acting on the strong relationships we already have with each local authority. It is a natural continuation of the collaboration the South Midlands Careers Hub and ourselves have demonstrated over the past 12 months to unite skills and business support to achieve economic success. We’re excited to continue to act as the intelligence resource for businesses and represent the wonderful variety of businesses and industries we have across the South Midlands.” Ruth Roan, South Midlands Growth Hub Manager ABOUT SOUTH MIDLANDS AUTHORITIES The South Midlands Authorities (prev. the Central Area Growth Board) is a partnership between the local authorities of Bedford Borough Council, Central Bedford Council, Luton Council, Milton Keynes City Council, North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council. Since 2018 the Central Area Growth Board had worked alongside the Growth Hub and the Careers Hub to coordinate and strengthen cross-boundary working across the region. Following the government announcement for Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) functions to be hosted by local authorities from April 2024, the Growth Hub and the Careers Hub are now being hosted by West Northamptonshire Council, on behalf of the six South Midlands councils. This transition from LEP to local authorities presented a new opportunity to consolidate the South Midlands Authorities (formerly known as Central Area Growth Board) the Growth Hub and the Careers Hub under a unified brand in order to better serve the region. For further information contact [email protected] Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 30, 2024

NFRS showcases work on culture and leadership to Home Office

Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service has been visited by a senior adviser on national fire strategy from the Home Office, to find out more about the work we are doing to improve our workplace culture and bring through leaders of the future. Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson welcomed Jenna Marsh, the Deputy Head of Unit looking after Fire Strategy and Reform, to Fire HQ in Wellingborough on Monday July 29 – and agenda items included NFRS’ Serving with pride programme, which is driving forward improvements to workplace culture and building trust and confidence in our reporting and disciplinary processes. As part of this, Jenna and Nikki discussed the new independent investigation service that has been commissioned to look at any serious and complex misconduct cases that arise. They also discussed fire strategy and leadership, where Nikki highlighted the work being done by our Workforce Development team to instil leadership skills at all levels across the Service. Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson said: “It’s fantastic that the Home Office want to visit Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service and find out more about some of the programmes we have put in place to try and improve our workplace culture. “It is vitally important that our staff have a culture that allows them to be the best versions of themselves, not only in our own buildings but when they are out engaging with our communities and keeping them safe. We know, like many large organisations, that there is more we can do to improve, but we believe through the Serving with pride programme that we are heading in the right direction, and it was great to share that progress with the Home Office. “It was also good to showcase the work we are doing to develop our workforce. You do not have to be a manager to be a leader, and we want people showcasing leadership skills at every level of the Service.”

July 30, 2024

Fire crews deal with blaze at six-storey building in Kettering town centre

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of a fire at a six-storey building at Dalkeith Place, Kettering, shortly before 7.30pm on Friday evening (July 26). Crews were immediately dispatched to the incident and discovered smoke issuing from the roof space of the building, which was under construction. The Fire Service requested the attendance of Northamptonshire Police to assist in traffic management, and East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) were also called to the scene. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the building and carried out a search and found no casualties. They then used hose reel jets to douse the flames, which had engulfed several solar panels on the roof. By 10pm, the fire had been extinguished and crews were able to carry out an initial investigation. It was determined that the most likely cause of the fire was due to an electrical fault with one of the solar panels. At the height of the incident, seven appliances were on scene dealing with the fire. Crews from Kettering, Corby, Wellingborough, Irthlingborough and Moulton all attended, and had all returned to their respective stations by 11pm. The Fire Service briefly returned on Saturday morning (July 27) to carry out a thermal scan of the building and identified no further hotspots, before handing the scene over to the site owner. Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson said: “This was a fire in a high-profile area in Kettering town centre that would have also had an impact on the night-time economy, and we would like to thank residents and businesses for their patience and understanding while we dealt with this incident on Friday evening. “The fire presented some difficult challenges to our firefighters in terms of the difficulty of access to the roof of a building under construction and covered in smoke – but also because fires involving solar panels can present a significant hazard risk to emergency responders. “I want to thank all the crews who worked in challenging circumstances to put this fire out, and thankfully the incident passed without anyone coming to harm.”

July 29, 2024

Hot weather guidance

29 July 2024 A Yellow Heat-Health Alert has been issued across the East Midlands from today (29 July) to Wednesday (31 July) by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office, with temperatures predicted to reach the high 20Cs. The warmer weather poses a much greater risk to the most vulnerable in our community, such as the very young and older people. Residents are advised to remain cautious and seek advice from 111 if non-emergency health advice is required. 999 services should be used in emergencies only. The top ways for staying safe in the heat are to: Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated; older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk. Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors. Use cool spaces if going outdoors. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol. Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, vulnerable adults, or animals. Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest. If you have to go outside in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day. Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling. Stay up to date with by visiting our hot weather web pages. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 26, 2024

New evening and weekend buses introduced across West Northants

26 July 2024 Additional bus services are being introduced in some areas across West Northants so that they can better serve the local community. West Northamptonshire Council has been working with Stagecoach Midlands on a bus service improvement plan, and following financial support from the Government’s Department for Transport, has introduced new evening services on a trial basis. These services will run for a year starting from 28 July, improving the work and leisure transport links for the local community. The new evening journeys will run on: 1: Northampton to Rectory Farm 2: Northampton to Blackthorn 5: Northampton to Southfields 15: Northampton to New Duston D2: Northampton to Daventry X47: Northampton to Rushden Lakes - via Wellingborough. There will also be a new hourly Sunday service on Route 5 from Northampton to Southfields via the Riverside Retail Park and buses will also now run up to every 30 minutes on route 8 between Northampton and Kings Heath. With support from Cold Ashby Parish Council, the 59 bus route will now serve Cold Ashby on Tuesdays and Fridays, providing residents with an opportunity for leisure and shopping in Market Harborough. “We are very pleased to announce that Stagecoach are going to be running several additional services from 28 July, thanks to funding from the Department for Transport and Cold Ashby Parish Council. Bus services play a vital role in connecting our local communities, and these additional services will improve work and leisure travel links for our residents.” Cllr Phil Larratt, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport “We are pleased to be running these additional journeys thanks to the support from West Northamptonshire Council and the DfT. They will give residents more opportunity to travel for both leisure and employment opportunities as we further support the evening economy in Northamptonshire, and it’s great that we’ll be able to play our part in making that happen. We look forward to welcoming passengers onboard.” Mark Whitelocks, Stagecoach Midlands Managing Director The project has received support from The Department for Transport’s BSIP fund so that some evening services can be introduced to provide better connectivity for users. “Buses are an affordable and sustainable travel option and it’s fantastic to see new evening and weekend buses introduced across West Northants, as more and more people choose the bus to get around. “Our Better Buses Bill will help West Northamptonshire Council continue transforming its local bus network by empowering local leaders to give local passengers the modern, clean and efficient bus services they can truly rely on.” Simon Lightwood, Local Transport Minister To find out more please visit the Stagecoach website, www.stagecoachbus.com . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 25, 2024

Have your say on the draft local transport plan for West Northants

25 July 2024 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 Achieve net zero. WNC is keen for residents, businesses, community groups, landowners, and other stakeholders to have their say on whether they agree with the proposals in the plan. A series of drop-in events are being held across the area and online on the following dates: Tuesday 13 August, 9am to midday at Daventry Market Square, High Street Friday 16 August, 9am to midday at Brackley Market, The Piazza Wednesday 21 August, 10am to 11.30am, online Thursday 22 August, 9am to noon at The Grosvenor Centre, Northampton Monday 23 September, 10am to 11.30am online Friday 11 October, 9am to midday at Towcester Farmers Market, Richmond Road For joining instructions to the online sessions, please email [email protected] . "We are keen to hear people’s thoughts on this plan that will help shape the future of local transport across West Northants for years to come. "Local transport is used by people for many different reasons in both our urban and rural areas, so we need to make sure that we’re focussing on the right things, whilst also considering the impact on the environment. "The plan describes our overarching ambition for transport in West Northants and ensures that other transport related policies and objectives are working together." 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?

July 25, 2024

Extension to Northampton car park closure

25 July 2024 Northampton’s Chalk Lane Car Park will be closed until 12 August to allow West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and its contractors to reinstate the car park to a safe standard before reopening. The car park was temporarily closed on 16 July to allow for preparatory work on the new Marefair Heritage Park, and had been due to reopen today (25 July). However the extent of the work required was greater than originally planned, and the closure will now be extended to 12 August. Signage is in place to notify motorists of the temporary closures, with people directed to use the nearby Marefair or Commercial Street Car Parks instead. Click here to view the council-owned car parks across Northampton. West Northamptonshire Council secured £1.6 million from the Government’s Towns Fund towards delivering the Heritage Park, which will provide new green space, trees, play areas, community gardens, pathways and lighting. Marefair and the surrounding area has a fascinating and important history as the site of the once famous Northampton Castle as well as other historic local buildings such as the Old Black Lion Pub, Hazelrigg House, Castle Hill United Reformed Church, St Peters Church and a former Saxon Palace. The park will tell this story on a heritage timeline, made up of poles which will be installed throughout the park. Click here to find out about regeneration schemes across Northampton . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 26, 2024

Bio-ethanol Heaters and Gel Fuel Burners

Fire Safety Advice Bio-ethanol and gel fuel burners are becoming increasingly popular and are used as both decorative items and as heating sources both indoors and outdoors. Bio-ethanol flame-effect fires have the same look and feel as ‘living’ flames but don’t need to have a chimney or flue. They don’t emit smoke or ash, but they are flammable and can cause serious harm. There are currently no European standards for these products and so it is essential that safety advice is strictly followed to keep yourself and others safe around them: Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions. Only use bio-ethanol fuel in fireboxes and containers designed for the product, and always use the appropriate fuel type. Bio–ethanol fuel is highly flammable and should be kept in containers tightly closed and away from any ignition sources. Fireboxes and containers should always be placed on a stable surface and away from combustible materials. Never add fuel to an already burning fire or overfill a fuel container and never fill up a firebox fuel container that is still hot, wait at least 15 minutes for the fire to cool down before topping up. Most accidents happen when topping up fuel because bio-ethanol is extremely flammable. Keep children and pets away from fireboxes and fuel. Extinguish all fires when leaving a room or before going to sleep. Always use bio-ethanol fireboxes and containers in a well-ventilated room. Regularly clean and check fuel containers for damage and never use a leaking one. Clean away any fuel spills with a damp cloth and dry completely. Keep your hands, hair and clothing well clear of any burning flames and fuel. You can be seriously injured if the fuel spits on your clothes or catches other flammable objects. Always light bio-ethanol fuel with an extended lighter or extra-long match – never discard matches into the container.

July 24, 2024

Man sentenced for social housing fraud

24 July 2024 A man who unlawfully attempted to secure social housing has been required to complete 25 days of rehabilitation activities and ordered to pay £1,315 in fines and costs by Wellingborough Magistrates Court on 17 July 2024. Craig Andrews, also known as Kulak, from Market Rasen, Lincolnshire, appeared in court following his guilty plea to two serious offences: making false claims and providing false information to commit fraud under the Fraud Act 2006. West Northamptonshire Council's Counter Fraud team conducted a detailed investigation and uncovered Mr. Andrews’ fraudulent actions. Their thorough investigation uncovered the full extent of Mr. Andrews’ dishonesty, which was aimed at securing housing he was not rightfully entitled to. Fraudulent activities like these are unacceptable. We want to make it clear that West Northamptonshire Council will not tolerate any form of dishonesty. We are committed to thoroughly investigating all fraud cases and act against anyone who tries to exploit the system Cllr Malcolm Longley, Cabinet Member for Finance at the Council Access to social housing is a crucial support for many in our community, and honesty is essential in ensuring that those who need help receive it. The impact of such fraudulent actions is far-reaching, affecting not just the immediate system but the entire community. We must ensure that housing resources are allocated fairly to those who truly need them Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing at the Council If you think you may know someone who is committing fraud you can report it on our website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 22, 2024

Additional investment to improve roads across West Northants

22 July 2024 An additional £10 million will be invested into improving roads across West Northamptonshire. The extra funding will allow WNC and its highways partner Kier to extend the surface dressing programme for roads and paths across the area as well as carrying out bridge maintenance schemes and work to resolve drainage issues across the area. This will also provide the opportunity to trial an innovative road surfacing technique (called in-situ recycling) that produces a long-lasting repair and reuses existing material to reduce costs and carbon emissions, resulting in more sustainable repairs across our rural network. The additional funding (which was approved at Council on Thursday 18 July) is coming from the capital budget which is used for things like improving local infrastructure. This follows on from the £2.8 million investment into purchasing and operating new machinery in 2023, which has already increased the efficiency of road maintenance and repairs in our area. “We understand that the state of our roads is extremely important to residents and we’re keen to make sure we’re doing everything we can to maintain and improve them.” “This additional investment will allow us to carry out even more much needed resurfacing and repair works and explore innovative new technologies that will improve our service. We will continue to keep residents informed on the progress of works with the hope that once works have concluded there will be a visible difference.” Cllr Phil Larratt, West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport To find out more about the Highways services across West Northamptonshire visit: Highways or visit @WNHighways on Facebook and X. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 21, 2024

Apprentice firefighter jobs being recruited at Northamptonshire – apply now

Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service is hiring a new cohort of apprentice firefighters to help keep our county safe. Firefighting is a rewarding career that involves so much more than fighting fires. Our firefighters play a vital role in promoting fire safety in their local communities through prevention and protection work and Home Fire Safety Visits with residents. They also respond to incidents ranging from road traffic collisions to flooding, chemical hazards and animal rescues. The recruitment portal is now open to anyone wishing to become an apprentice firefighter in Northamptonshire. The deadline for applications closes at noon on August 5. Our new recruits would join as wholetime firefighters, and over the next two years work towards achieving the Level 3 Operational Firefighter qualification from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. Our first ever cohort of apprentice firefighters all passed the course and were awarded their certificates only a few days ago , giving them a valuable transferable skill for the rest of their careers. One of those was Charlotte Cowley (pictured below), who joined in 2022 and now works wholetime on Blue Watch in Corby. She said: “The first year of study was intense, and I had to do that on top of my operational duties as a firefighter. But I never thought I would have been able to learn as much as I have. “It’s been a steep learning curve, but it’s been an incredibly fulfilling experience and I am so happy to have achieved it.” We welcome applications from wholetime and on-call firefighters from other services, and if you are already a Competent Firefighter, then you will not have to do the apprenticeship course. We are also welcoming applications from people who want to give back to their community and try a new career. Josh Block successfully applied to join last year, having previously been a self-employed electrician. He recently completed his training and in June was posted to Green Watch in Moulton. Josh, aged 33, is already loving his new job and said: “Being a self-employed electrician was not a long-term career and I was looking at doing something team related. “I went to a ‘Have A Go’ day in Corby last summer to get a bit of a feel for it and see if it’s something I would like. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and everyone was so welcoming.” Josh, pictured above, added: “Doing this job now allows me to give back to my community and I’m looking forward to the outreach it will have. I always remember when the Fire Service came to school or they were at the local fete – it was always amazing to see them, and hopefully I’ll now be able to help inspire the next generation of firefighters.” To become an apprentice wholetime firefighter, you must: have a full car driving licence valid for the UK (with no more than 3 points) be able to permanently live and work in the UK without any restrictions be aged 18 years old at the start of the training course in February Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service particularly wants to attract people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life to apply and help ensure the county’s Fire Service truly represents the people it serves. If you wish to find out more about the recruitment process, including the job description, then an information pack can be downloaded here . To apply to become an apprentice firefighter at Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service, please click here. You can also register to attend virtual Introduction and Q&A sessions that are being held on Microsoft Teams, and these take place on July 22 (7pm), July 25 (7pm), July 29 (7pm) and August 1 (2pm). Please click here to register .

July 19, 2024

Council celebrates achievements and sets course for the future in 2023/24 annual report

19 July 2024 The leader of the council thanks residents, businesses, and partners as the council launches its Annual Report for 2023/24. Presented at last night's Council meeting, the report highlights key achievements, including significant progress in economic regeneration, enhancements in community services, and initiatives to promote sporting excellence across the region. It also outlines strategic priorities for the upcoming year, reflecting the Council's commitment to continuous improvement and sustainable development. This year, our commitment to supporting residents through the cost-of-living crisis remained a top priority. Working with community partners, we successfully distributed over £5 million in government funding. This included food and meal vouchers, hardship payments, and support for food banks and larders, all aimed at helping residents reduce their energy bills and meet essential needs. Despite economic pressures, we have maintained and protected essential services within budget. Our continued efforts toward our anti-poverty strategy led to the creation of 100 welcoming spaces, fostering community connections and support. We have continued to drive economic growth, transforming £45 million of grants into £350 million of private investment for major town centre regeneration schemes. This includes the new Sponne Arcade Car Park in Towcester and the development of a Masterplan for Daventry town centre. Our commitment to making West Northamptonshire a destination for sporting excellence, arts, and culture saw us successfully bid to host the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025. We also initiated plans for large-scale live music festivals, starting with a performance by James Arthur at Delapré Abbey, and celebrated the Coronation of King Charles III with thousands of residents. We worked hard to support and guide local businesses, and our efforts in broadband roll-out ensure that 93.8% of premises now have access to gigabit broadband, outpacing the national average. We also secured more than £5.4 million from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund to boost our local economy. Significant progress has been made in our improvement journey for children’s services. Our Children’s Trust fostering service was rated “Good “by Ofsted, and we developed new approaches for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Over 103,000 visits were made to our 88 welcoming spaces. Additionally, we supported around 12,000 adults to remain safe, well, and independent. Investments in technology have improved road maintenance, with the JCB Pothole Pro speeding up repairs fourfold. We also launched a Rural Business Grants programme to support local business. Our focus on environmental sustainability continued with various initiatives to support local businesses and protect our environment. Six of our green spaces retained the prestigious Green Flag Awards, highlighting our commitment to maintaining high-quality recreational areas. Our communities came together for over 30 varied events, including Pride, Diwali, International Women's Day, and Holocaust Memorial Day demonstrating our rich cultural diversity and community cohesion. The council has remained dedicated to its transformation plans, enhancing the services inherited from legacy councils, while developing and implementing new strategies aimed at creating sustainable communities and improving outcomes for local residents. Recognising that there is more work to be done, the council's priorities for the upcoming year reflect its ongoing mission to provide even better services that enable residents to lead their best lives. "The annual report showcases the dedication and resilience of West Northamptonshire Council in delivering services and meeting the needs of our communities. “I’m immensely proud of the progress we have made over the past year, and I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all residents, businesses, partners, and colleagues for their unwavering support. Their invaluable contributions, resilient spirit, generosity, and determination continue to play a fundamental role as our council strives to make West Northamptonshire a remarkable place to live, visit, work, and thrive. “We have made significant strides in this year, and while challenges undoubtedly lie ahead, we are confident in our ability to adapt and respond effectively, guided by the unwavering support of our community." Cllr Adam Brown, the Leader of West Northamptonshire Council For more information and to access the full annual report, please visit the West Northamptonshire Council website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 19, 2024

Council welcomes new Independent Members to the Audit and Governance Committee

19 July 2024 Charles Davidson and Mark Jones have been appointed as Independent Members of the Audit and Governance Committee, with their appointments confirmed at last night's Council meeting. In their new roles, Charles and Mark will be vital in strengthening the Council's governance, risk management, financial reporting, and anti-fraud efforts. Their independent oversight will ensure the highest standards for the Council's members, residents, and stakeholders. As non-voting members with relevant expertise and knowledge, they will assist the committee in overseeing internal and external audit arrangements, reviewing financial statements and statutory accounts, and evaluating the Council’s governance, risk management, and control measures. Charles Davidson brings a wealth of experience from senior roles in central government, specialising in information technology and security. Charles is a Chartered Engineer and Chartered Cyber Security Professional, he has also been a dedicated school governor in Northampton for many years. I think West Northants Council has shown a real commitment to good governance by creating these new independent positions. I'm thrilled to join the committee and look forward to making a meaningful contribution to the community I've called home for over 34 years Charles Davidson Mark Jones is a partner with a global audit and accounting firm, leading a portfolio of over 20 outsourced internal audit clients across various sectors, including housing, emergency services, NHS, charity, and education. A qualified CIPFA accountant, Mark has previously served as the chief internal auditor for several local authorities. I am eager to give back to the community I live in by working as an Independent Member of the Council’s Audit and Governance Committee. I look forward to supporting the Council’s governance and risk management efforts and ensuring the highest standards of accountability Mark Jones We welcome Charles and Mark to the Audit and Governance Committee. Their expertise will be invaluable in ensuring that our governance, risk management, and financial oversight are of the highest standard. I am confident that their contributions will greatly benefit our community Cllr Malcolm Longley The Council is following recommended good practice by appointing independent members to its Audit and Governance Committee to provide impartial oversight and give assurance on the Council's operations. Their role includes assisting with the supervision of audit arrangements, the review of financial documents, and the assessment of governance and risk management frameworks. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 19, 2024

Historic and cultural sites invited to take part in Northamptonshire’s Heritage Open Days 2024

19 July 2024 Historic and cultural sites across Northamptonshire are invited to take part in this year’s Heritage Open Days, which will take place between 6 and 15 September. Venues such as stately homes, buildings of historic interest, museums, places of worship, and archaeological sites can now register to participate in Heritage Open Days, which is England’s largest annual festival of history and culture. This year’s event will utilise the theme Routes, Networks & Connections to bring together the past and present with workshops, walks, talks, hidden spaces, and activities for all the family, and for the first time will include many offers from attractions across the whole of the county with the aim of making the heritage festival more diverse than ever before. The festival offers the public free entry to places which might normally be closed or have an entrance fee, and where admission is charged, venues will offer something new to see, with many connected by Northampton Transport Heritage buses’ free hop-on hop-off service. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is an official promoter of the event and a list of all participating attractions and events can be found on the Council website, which will be updated regularly as more attractions register. Events will include a film of Northampton’s evolving Market Square, a student showcase of Northampton’s rich heritage, and fun runners getting into the heritage spirit. More details will be revealed shortly on the WNC website together with details of where and when the heritage buses will be running. This year's Heritage Open Days is set to be bigger and better than ever before with events and attractions opening up across the whole of the county to provide something for everyone Northamptonshire boasts a wealth of historic and cultural sites – from Tudor manor houses and unique theatres to an Iron Age hill fort and Buddhist Meditation Centre – and Heritage Open Days provides the perfect opportunity to showcase this offering to visitors from far and wide This event not only promotes our rich heritage but also boosts local tourism and stimulates the local economy. We encourage local attractions to register now and join us in celebrating and sharing the unique history and culture that Northants has to offer Cllr Daniel Lister on Culture and Tourism Registration can be completed by emailing [email protected] . For more information, please visit the Heritage Open Days page. Sites can also register on the national Heritage Open Days website before 8 August 2024. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 19, 2024

Council joins national campaign to end domestic abuse and sexual violence

19 July 2024 West Northamptonshire Council has joined a nationwide campaign aimed at ending domestic abuse and sexual violence as it continues to strengthen its commitment towards tackling these issues with partners. The UK Says No More Campaign (UKSNM) brings together organisations, businesses and communities across the country to actively take a stand against domestic violence and make positive changes. Signing up to the campaign enables the Council to join a national network of professionals and ambassadors working to achieve similar goals in ending domestic violence; draw upon a range of invaluable resources; and get involved in supporting, promoting, and expanding key community initiatives locally, such as the Safe Spaces and Online Safe Spaces schemes and Ask for ANI . WNC already delivers UKSNM awareness events including No More Week and 16 Days of Activism, and also now intends to draw upon the campaign’s Everyone’s Business initiative as it progresses work to strengthen its policies and support for victims of domestic abuse within the workplace. As well as pursuing initiatives within the UKSNM campaign, the Council is also continuing to move forward with a wide range of actions tackling domestic abuse through its work as part of the West Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Partnership and Community Safety Partnership, with the development of a new strategy also under way for reducing violence and improving outcomes for residents. At last night’s Full Council meeting, WNC’s Leader Cllr Adam Brown updated members about the recent campaign sign-up and confirmed that the Council has the resource in place to deliver against the objectives of UK Says No More. We are totally committed to working with all our partners towards ending domestic abuse and violence of any kind, and ensuring victims are supported with the compassion they deserve, but we know people currently feel let down by us and we need to rebuild that trust. The only way we can do this is by fully demonstrating our commitment to how seriously we take these issues, by listening to our partners and residents and acting on their concerns. Signing up to the UK Says No More campaign is an important step in doing this, as it closely aligns with our priorities for working with partners to eradicate domestic abuse and sexual violence. It will provide us with invaluable professional support and resources to help us develop a future action plan with partners towards tackling these issues. Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of the Council A motion on the issue of domestic abuse was originally planned to be presented at council last night by Councillor Jonathan Harris, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats in West Northamptonshire. Cllr Harris has regularly highlighted the need for the Council to take action on preventing domestic abuse and violence against women and girls and he welcomed the Council joining UKSNM, having initially proposed a similar sign-up to White Ribbon UK. WNC’s decision to sign up to this national campaign is an encouraging start, but there is still so much more to do and a long way to go to restore people’s faith. We must be much bolder in our approach, with tangible actions and outcomes that really make difference to people’s lives. Most importantly, all groups across the Council need to work together to make this happen and that includes ensuring our own staff and councillors will stand up and be counted. We cannot let the work to stamp out domestic abuse and sexual violence slip in any way and so opposition members will continue to hold the Council’s administration to account to ensure this does not happen. We will be looking for clear actions and timetables Cllr Jonathan Harris, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats in West Northamptonshire Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 17, 2024

West Northants put on heat-health alert as urgent weather warning issued

17 July 2024 A Yellow Heat-Health Alert has been issued across the East Midlands from Thursday (18 July) to Saturday (20 July) by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office, with temperatures predicted to reach the high 20Cs. The warmer weather poses a much greater risk to the most vulnerable in our community, such as the very young and older people. Residents are advised to remain cautious and seek advice from 111 if non-emergency health advice is required. 999 services should be used in emergencies only. The top ways for staying safe in the heat are to: Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated; older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk. Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors. Use cool spaces if going outdoors. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol. Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, vulnerable adults, or animals. Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest. If you have to go outside in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day. Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling. Stay up to date with by visiting our hot weather web pages. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 18, 2024

Pupils' designs see willow sculpture crafted at Daventry Country Park to mark Children’s Mental Health

18 July 2024 A willow sculpture (pictured) has been installed at Daventry Country Park based on two winning students designs to reflect Children’s Mental Health week. Hosted by Healthy Schools, Public Health team as part of a competition which took place last year to mark Children’s Mental Health Week 2023, students were invited to take part in an art competition on ‘what does good mental health look like’ to them. Schools who signed up, received a free willow weaving workshop during the week where students got involved and got to put their creativity to practice. Winning designs from two students at Barby Primary and East Hunsbury Primary in West Northants have now been crafted into one amazing willow sculpture by artist, Debs Jones and is located at Daventry Country Park which showcases how connecting with nature can support positive mental wellbeing in children and young people. The sculpture installation can be found by using google maps or using what three words: shortens.catching.liberty Suman Bedi, Headteacher at Barby CE Primary School, said: “This was a great opportunity for the pupils at Barby as we were really looking at wellbeing and mental health with our children and how we can help, how the children can help and what we can do to ensure we are always mentally healthy. Also, we have been discussing how we can communicate and support each other to ensure that we can always ensure that our actions don’t impact others negatively. The children loved doing this and we really loved the entries that came in. We are really proud of the winners as they can hopefully have long lasting impact on their school peers and now their local community.” Kathryn Pennington, Headteacher at East Hunsbury Primary School, said: “Here at East Hunsbury Primary, we know that school isn’t just about reading, maths and writing – for us, it is about educating the whole child and children’s mental and physical health is really important to us. Each year, we take part in Children’s Mental Health week and we jumped at the chance to participate in the: ‘What does good mental health look like?’ competition. Children across the school got involved and wonderful, important discussions were had. We were then thrilled to learn that one of our pupils had been selected to be the joint winner and were incredibly proud of them. We can’t wait to visit the sculpture and to continue our work on Mental Health.” Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at West Northamptonshire Council said: “This was a great idea from our Healthy Schools team to get our young people involved in a creative task whilst thinking about how connecting with nature benefits their mental wellbeing. “Talking about mental wellbeing is so important and this was an engaging way to start these conversations with students. A big well done and thank you to all who took part, there were many incredible entries – and the winning designs were truly well deserved as the final sculpture looks brilliant!” Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 17, 2024

Innovation & Growth Roundtable event relocates to West Northants

17 July 2024 Silverstone Technology Cluster (STC) held its annual showcase event in West Northamptonshire this week with an Innovation & Growth Roundtable. The sold-out conference event, which relocated from Milton Keynes to Northampton this year, provides attendees with an opportunity to listen to insightful presentations, debate with peers, share knowledge, and network with business leaders across the cluster. This year, West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) joined forces with the South Midlands Growth Hub and Bucks Business First to sponsor the event and showcase its support for all businesses as well as its dedication to STC and the industries it represents. The Council, a founding member of the STC, joined exhibitors and speakers including experts from the Ministry of Defence, US Army DEVCOM and HCR Hewitsons, at the event on 16 July. “It’s a privilege to host the STC’s Innovation & Growth Roundtable event in West Northamptonshire and partner with the South Midlands Growth Hub and Bucks Business First to showcase our support for our local enterprises. “West Northants is an exceptional area for investment and growth and events like this demonstrate the diverse range of industries we support here, from advanced manufacturing and engineering to high-tech innovation and research & development, as a Council we strive to continue doing all we can to support local businesses and drive positive economic growth in our area.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture & “We enjoyed a fantastic event and we’d like to thank our supporters Silverstone Park, Jaltek, HCR and of course our friends at WNC for their help and support with this event. “WNC have been a great partner of the STC from the outset and we very much enjoy working with them. Their support to help us put together these types of events where we can bring the industry together and encourage collaboration are critical to foster and grow the advanced engineer ecosystem in the area.” Pim van Baarsen, CEO of STC In addition to supporting the STC, WNC has dedicated over £3million to supporting local businesses through Central Government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) and UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) including growth, innovation, decarbonisation and more. Find out more about the Council’s free business support on the WNC website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 18, 2024

Local government leaders unite in support of Universal’s transformative theme park and resort project proposed for Bedford

18 July 2024 The leaders and chief executives of six local authorities have collectively endorsed Universal Destinations & Experiences’ potential theme park and resort project. In a letter sent to the Prime Minister, the region's leadership emphasised the transformative potential of this initiative. The project creates 20,000 jobs during construction, with an additional 20,000 jobs generated directly and, in the supply-chain during the resort’s operation. This significant job creation underscores the tangible economic impact the potential project will have on the region. Additionally, the project’s scale will help set England’s South Midlands as one of the foremost visitor destinations in Europe and the World. “As a Council, we fully endorse this project and want to show our full support and commitment to working with both our local authority partners and Universal Destinations & Experiences to maximise the benefits for local people and communities. “The South Midlands is extremely well connected and with West Northants situated just over 30 minutes from Bedford, this project presents an array of opportunities for our residents including jobs, economic growth and an enhanced visitor economy with tourists from far and wide coming into West Northamptonshire to enjoy everything we have to offer.” Cllr Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council “This is an exciting opportunity which will bring extraordinary economic benefits to the wider South Midlands area and locally here in West Northamptonshire, not only presenting us as a top destination for visitors from across the UK but also from around the world.” Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive of West Northamptonshire Council “We know the importance of this Universal project getting the green light. Not only will the potential theme park and resort serve as a major draw for visitors, attracting millions of annual visitors, with many projected to come from Europe and overseas, it will help bolster the UK's profile as a leader in the creative industries, a must-see visitor destination, business investment hub and deliver growth.” Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council The letter is signed by the chief executives and political leaders of Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire, Luton Borough, Milton Keynes City, North Northamptonshire, and West Northamptonshire councils, demonstrating strong regional support for the project. Universal continue to share updates as the project progresses on their website at universalukproject.co.uk Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 19, 2024

Action already under way to progress Peer review recommendations

19 July 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) will be developing a compelling long-term plan for improving the area and working more strategically with partners in the months ahead as it progresses the recommendations of a recent independent review. Work is already under way by the Council on addressing the findings of the Local Government Association’s (LGA) Corporate Peer Challenge in March, which looked in detail at how effective the authority is at providing services and delivering upon the vision to make West Northants a Great Place to Live, Visit, Work and Thrive. A feedback report from the review said that the Council had made a strong positive start as a new unitary authority with ‘much achieved at pace’ during its first three years, and now needed to look ‘outwards and explore with partners what it wants for West Northamptonshire.’ Having also described external partner organisations’ relationships with the Council as ‘the best they have ever been’, the review said the Council now needed to build on this by working with them more closely and strategically on shaping the future of the area. Within the report the Peers put forward eight recommendations from the review and the Council recently developed and published an action plan on how it plans to progress them, with work now under way. The action plan and timescales for progress can be viewed on the Council’s website . Alongside engaging more strategically with partners and producing a long-term vision, other recommendations included developing how the Council plans for its medium to longer term budget pressures, further development of overview and scrutiny and improving customer transactions and the Council’s website. The LGA review was undertaken during a four-day visit in March by a team of senior officers and members from other councils across the country who held more than 40 sessions to gather information and views of over 110 people including staff, councillors and external partners from the business, health, community and education sectors. The Peers will now return to the Council later this year with a follow-up visit to measure WNC’s progress against the recommendations it has been set. “The peer review was an excellent opportunity for us to invite in independent assessors as "critical friends" who could look into detail at how we work and let us know where we’re doing well and where we can improve. “They rightfully highlighted key challenges that we need to confront in the months and years ahead, such as improving some of our strategic relationships and developing "a compelling long-term vision for the area" – and I'm delighted to say work is already underway on these issues, as we seek to build on the foundations we've laid over the past three years as a new unitary council. “Three years in and after creating key joint strategies working with partners and residents, we will be bringing them together to create a new 5-year business plan that sets out how we will achieve the vision our stakeholders agreed when we started, to “make West Northants a great place to live, work, visit and thrive” and the actions we will be taking with our partners to deliver this vision. We will set out an area-wide strategic approach to housing and economic growth alongside partnership ambitions for improving services for children to help them get the best start in life and ensuring older residents age and live well.” Councillor Adam Brown, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council The LGA Corporate Peer Challenge took place from 4-7 March at WNC’s office in One Angel Square, Northampton. The peer team considered the core themes looked at by all corporate peer challenges, namely: local priorities and outcomes, organisational and place leadership, governance and culture, financial planning and management and capacity for improvement. You can read WNC’s Corporate Peer Challenge Feedback Report and the subsequent Action Plan on the Council’s website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 18, 2024

Five parks across West Northants retain the prestigious Green Flag Award

18 July 2024 Green Flags are being raised at Five of West Northamptonshire Council’s parks as they’ve once again been awarded the coveted Green Flag status, which celebrates Britain’s greatest parks and green spaces. Abington Park, Bradlaugh Fields, Daventry Country Park, Delapre Park and Brixworth Country Park have all retained their Green Flag Awards - nationally recognised as the benchmark for the management of recreational outdoor spaces. Bradlaugh Fields in Northampton has retained the award for the fifth year running and Abington and Delapre parks, also in Northampton, retain their awards for the eleventh and twelfth years in a row respectively, in recognition for the hard work of community groups and volunteers to maintain these widely used open spaces. Daventry Country Park, which has seen improvements to its visitor facilities in recent years, achieves the award for the 25th time. The Green Health at Daventry project was also successful in achieving the Green Flag Community Award for the community garden run with support from Daventry Country Park’s rangers. It is fantastic news that five of our parks have retained their Green Flags for 2024/25. Our green spaces are essential to our residents wellbeing and provide vital environmental benefits for local wildlife. The coveted award recognises the brilliant work that our park rangers, community groups, volunteers, and residents continue to do to maintain and improve our open spaces. Cllr Rebecca Breese for Environment, Recycling and Waste To find out more about open spaces and parks across West Northamptonshire, visit our parks and open spaces page. The full list of winners can be viewed on the Green Flag Award website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 18, 2024

Council shortlisted for prestigious industry award

18 July 2024 West Northamptonshire Council has been shortlisted for the Community Engagement award as part of the annual National Building and Construction Awards in recognition of their use of extensive and innovative community involvement and focus on the value of local opinions as part of the Greyfriars Masterplan consultation. As the only Council shortlisted for this industry award, which celebrates excellence across construction and building, WNC is paving the way for community engagement in shaping transformational regeneration schemes. Through their ambitions to repurpose the 15-acreGreyfriars site, which has been derelict since the year 2015, the Council’s vision sets out their ambitions to transform it into a new vibrant neighbourhood, which can revitalise the town centre and act as a catalyst for the infusion of new life into Northampton. The proposals have been crafted by a multi-disciplinary team led by Studio Egret West, who have been commissioned by West Northamptonshire Council to create the vision for the area. This team comprises urban designers, architects, landscape architects, and transport, commercial and sustainability experts. The community engagement and digital consultation platform were led by specialists Deetu, part of BWB Consulting. The Greyfriars consultation has allowed the council to be shortlisted for this award due to the fact that their bright vision for the Greyfriars area being an opportunity to drive positive change across the town of Northampton would not have been possible without involvement and engagement from the town’s lively and motivated community. Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “It is fantastic that the consultation and engagement for the vision of the future Greyfriars site has received national recognition. The prestigious industry awards bring together exemplars across the country and finest in their fields, and it is an honour that our Council is the only one to be recognised at this level. We look forward to the next stage and celebrating all the finalists in October.” Engagement and involvement from Northampton’s community was achieved through utilisation of digital collaboration opposed to reliance upon traditional surveys and town stalls. Instead, town residents were able to participate in much wider-reaching online surveys to which over 2,500 people gave their responses and additionally over 6,000 individual comments were received. The website recorded over 12,000 sessions and 20,000 page views from nearly 10,00 unique users revealing the high amount of interaction with the community that the council was able to achieve through their use of online methods of feedback and communication. In contrast to this, knowing that not all people have reliable access to the internet the Council also utilised methods which ensured that all town members could engage with the consultation regardless of how well they are able to access the internet. A clear example of one of these methods was an in-person event that was held at the Grosvenor Shopping centre on Saturday 1 June which was able to attract itself towards 680 people. A lot of these people that attended were unaware of the scheme previously meaning this event was a useful asset in introducing the Greyfriars scheme to more people. The winners will be announced at the annual awards ceremony on Thursday 24th October 2024. Click here to find out more about the regeneration schemes across Northampton. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 17, 2024

A Home for Harmony musical play comes to West Northants libraries

17 July 2024 Musical play A Home for Harmony will visit libraries in West Northamptonshire this August as part of its Summer 2024 Tour. Written by Renata Allen and produced by the People's Theatre Collective, the play is created specifically for young children and uses engaging music to inspire emotional resilience and confidence, ensuring families can enjoy the performance while recognising its valuable messages. The play follows the touching story of Sam, a disabled person, and their loyal assistance dog, Bouncer, whose home is disrupted when a stray cat named Harmony appears on their doorstep and is welcomed into their family. The play is designed with inclusivity in mind, featuring accessible elements for audiences with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including sensory and musical components, Makaton sign language, and non-verbal storytelling to ensure that every child can enjoy and engage with the performance. "We are delighted to welcome this educational play which celebrates inclusion and people of different abilities to our libraries. “This free production is a wonderful opportunity for children and families to engage with stories that discuss disability and showcase diverse voices and perspectives. “As a Council we aim to foster a sense of understanding and community among our young audiences and invite everyone to join us for this enriching and entertaining experience." Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure "I couldn't be more excited to work on this amazing project. This play is not only a fun and heartwarming experience for families, it also highlights the incredible impact assistance dogs have on people's lives.” Emma, People's Theatre Collective Project Manager For more information and to see the full list of tour dates and venues, visit the People's Theatre Collective's website. To find your local library and see a list of events, visit the WNC Libraries webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 17, 2024

Closure order obtained at Northampton property following drug related anti-social behaviour

17 July 2024 A property in Northampton has been issued with a full closure order following concerns around drug dealing and anti-social behaviour from members of the public. The 3-month order follows numerous complaints from local residents about a range of disruptive activities linked to the flat, located in Park Avenue in Abington, over the past six months. Since January 2024, there have been persistent reports of disturbances including frequent visitors to the flat throughout the night and early morning; noise from shouting, arguing, fighting, and swearing in communal areas; other residents' flat buzzers being rung in the early hours; and suspicious packages being exchanged, believed to be drugs, causing the community a high level of alarm and distress. Last week (10 July), West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Anti-Social Behaviour team and Northamptonshire Police successfully obtained a closure order to shut down the property under Part 4 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. The Council and the police worked together to gather the evidence needed to obtain the closure order at Northampton Magistrates Court. The property will be secured and boarded to prevent entry. Any unauthorised person who enters the property will be committing a criminal offence. "We are pleased this full closure order has been obtained thanks to a strong partnership effort with Northamptonshire Police. “This Northampton property has been a source of persistent anti-social behaviour and criminal activity for months, making the lives of other residents miserable. “This decisive action reflects our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our communities. By addressing this issue head-on, we are not only improving the quality of life for local residents but also sending a clear message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in our neighbourhoods." Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at WNC Closure orders last for a period of 3 months and can be extended further if necessary. They are used when other approaches to tackling anti-social behaviour have been unsuccessful and aim to protect residents living in the neighbourhood by preventing criminal behaviour taking place in or around a property. “Northamptonshire Police is extremely pleased with the result of this full closure order, which is the culmination of excellent partnership work between the Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team, the Anti-Social Behaviour Unit and West Northamptonshire Council. “I would like to give special mention to PCSO Dan Freeman who was diligent and determined, working with and supporting the residents impacted by the ASB and criminality from this problem address. Between all our partners we obtained all of the information and evidence required to take this matter to court and secure a successful outcome. “We fully recognise the detrimental effects behaviour like this has on people’s quality of life, and how communities can suffer as a result of those who fail to consider the impact of their actions. I’d like to pay tribute to this community, to those who have stood up and refused to be plagued by this behaviour; it is their evidence which has been instrumental to this outcome. “No-one should feel frightened in their own home. Cases like this demonstrate that police and local authorities will not tolerate such behaviour and illustrate how important it is for residents to let us know about issues in their area.” Inspector Lee Flavell, of Northampton Neighbourhood Policing Team If you are experiencing issues with anti-social behaviour or suspected criminality where you live, please report it to police on 101 or report online at www.northants.police.uk/RO . In an emergency, where a crime is in progress or life is at risk, always call 999. Non-emergency reports can also be made in confidence to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 16, 2024

Reminder for school aged children and young people to get vaccinated ahead of summer holidays

16 July 2024 West Northamptonshire Public Health are encouraging primary, secondary and further education students and their parents and guardians, to check their vaccination status, to ensure they are up to date. Increased mixing during the holidays means the risk of viruses spreading amongst children and young people is heightened. Some of the most common infections to circulate within our school aged population includes measles, mumps, and meningitis, which can cause severe complications, and in some cases require hospitalisation. Some children and young people may have missed out on getting their routine vaccinations or are newly eligible, and are therefore being reminded to get this protection. Vaccinations help to boost the immune system and protects against complications an infection can cause. Children and young people who attend school should have been offered vaccinations through their GP or the school immunisation programme. If your child has missed any doses of these vaccines or does not attend a school setting, please, contact your GP to arrange an appointment. “Across Northamptonshire we have seen a decline in the uptake of childhood and adolescent vaccinations. I am asking for parents and guardians to support in protecting their children and young people this summer by checking their child’s vaccination status, to ensure they have had all their recommended doses. Don’t let an avoidable infection spoil their summer break. “If your child has missed any vaccinations, please contact your child’s GP as soon as possible to discuss and arrange an appointment.” Dr Annapurna Sen, Health Protection Consultant for West Northamptonshire Public Health For further detail regarding any of these vaccinations, please check out the West Northamptonshire Council Immunisation page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 16, 2024

Car parks temporarily closed as regeneration work continues

16 July 2024 Motorists are being advised of closures to two car parks in Northampton this month, as work on two exciting town centre regeneration projects take a step forward. The town’s Chalk Lane Car Park will be closed from the evening of Tuesday 16 July through to Thursday 25 July to allow for preparatory work on the new Marefair Heritage Park. The nearby Doddridge Street Car Park is closed for four weeks from 15 July while the Museum of London Archaeology carry out investigation as part of the delivery of the Four Waterside and Marefair development. Signage will be in place to notify motorists of the temporary closures, with people directed to use the nearby Marefair or Commercial Street Car Parks instead. Click here to view the council-owned car parks across Northampton. West Northamptonshire Council secured £1.6 million from the Government’s Towns Fund towards delivering the Heritage Park, which will provide new green space, trees, play areas, community gardens, pathways and lighting. Marefair and the surrounding area has a fascinating and important history as the site of the once famous Northampton Castle as well as other historic local buildings such as the Old Black Lion Pub, Hazelrigg House, Castle Hill United Reformed Church, St Peters Church and a former Saxon Palace. The park will tell this fascinating story on a heritage timeline of Corteen Steel poles which will be installed throughout the park. The project to improve a major gateway to Northampton will be complemented by the Four Waterside and Marefair development, which will see the vacant brownfield site along the River Nene transformed into high-quality office space, new homes, business space and a new hotel. This ambitious project is being delivered thanks to £1.7 million of funding from the Towns Fund, £7 million of investment from Northampton Enterprise Zone and investment from developers CityHeart. Wider construction works are expected to start in 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 15, 2024

Have your say on our draft Parks Development Strategy

15 July 2024 People are being asked to help shape a strategy setting out how West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) manages and develops its parks and green spaces. The Council manages around 150 parks and green open spaces across West Northants, including war memorials, and town and country parks. The new Parks Development Strategy will set out how the Council can protect, develop, and improve these areas in ways that not only enrich residents’ and visitors’ lives, but also the natural environment. The current version is very much in draft form as we are keen to engage with and hear the thoughts of park users, local businesses, community groups and other stakeholders in order to shape the final document. “We understand the importance that our parks and green spaces play in people’s lives. We are keen to hear the views of local residents, cyclists, dog walkers, volunteers and community organisations to help us to ensure that we set a suitably ambitious but achievable strategy; one which meets the needs and expectations of our residents and visitors. “We have identified a range of initiatives we believe would further improve and enhance our parks and green spaces for everyone in our communities to enjoy and it's really important that people tell us what they think of our proposals and let us know if we are focusing on the right things.” Cllr Rebecca Breese, Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste The Council would like to hear from anyone who has an interest in our parks and the development of this strategy. The consultation will be live until midnight on 8 September. Click here to view the draft strategy and have your say. All responses will be analysed and considered by the Council in developing the draft strategy further. The feedback provided will help WNC to develop an updated version of the Parks Development Strategy and accompanying action plan. Once finalised, these will be presented to the Council’s Cabinet in November 2024, with the final strategy to be published in 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 16, 2024

Northampton car park temporarily closures

16 July 2024 Motorists are being advised of closures to two car parks in Northampton this month, as work on two exciting town centre regeneration projects take a step forward. The town’s Chalk Lane Car Park will be closed from the evening of Tuesday 16 July through to Thursday 25 July to allow for preparatory work on the new Marefair Heritage Park. The nearby Doddridge Street Car Park is closed for four weeks from 15 July while the Museum of London Archaeology carry out investigation as part of the delivery of the Four Waterside and Marefair development. Signage will be in place to notify motorists of the temporary closures, with people directed to use the nearby Marefair or Commercial Street Car Parks instead. Click here to view the council-owned car parks across Northampton. West Northamptonshire Council secured £1.6 million from the Government’s Towns Fund towards delivering the Heritage Park, which will provide new green space, trees, play areas, community gardens, pathways and lighting. Marefair and the surrounding area has a fascinating and important history as the site of the once famous Northampton Castle as well as other historic local buildings such as the Old Black Lion Pub, Hazelrigg House, Castle Hill United Reformed Church, St Peters Church and a former Saxon Palace. The park will tell this fascinating story on a heritage timeline of Corteen Steel poles which will be installed throughout the park. The project to improve a major gateway to Northampton will be complemented by the Four Waterside and Marefair development, which will see the vacant brownfield site along the River Nene transformed into high-quality office space, new homes, business space and a new hotel. This ambitious project is being delivered thanks to £1.7 million of funding from the Towns Fund, £7 million of investment from Northampton Enterprise Zone and investment from developers CityHeart. Wider construction works are expected to start in 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 16, 2024

More schools recognised for commitment to pupils' health and wellbeing

16 July 2024 Schools across West Northamptonshire have received awards recognising their commitment to going above and beyond in improving the health and wellbeing of their pupils. A total of 40 schools across the area received the bronze and silver Healthy Schools Awards accreditation, which is presented by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC). This is the second wave of schools to receive the accolade following the launch of the awards in January this year, and each school was invited to a celebration event. The schools which have achieved the status have met the criteria for certain standards across areas including mental health and wellbeing, healthy eating, physical activity and PSHE (personal, social, health and economic education). The criteria has been specifically designed and tailored to Northamptonshire, which makes it unique compared to other healthy schools awards. The schools that achieved this prestigious award are: Silver award: Lumbertubs Primary Spring Lane Primary Falconers Hill Academy Billing Brook School On Track Education Croughton All Saints CofE Primary The Bliss Charity School Wootton Primary St James Primary Bronze award: Barby CE Primary Briar Hill Primary Bridgewater Primary Cedar Road Primary Crick Primary Eastfield Academy Gayton CE Primary Greenfields Specialist School for Communication Hardingstone Academy Headlands Primary Hopping Hill Primary Hospital and Outreach Hunsbury Park Primary Kingsthorpe Grove Primary Malcolm Arnold Preparatory Academy Queen Eleanor Academy Newnham Primary Northampton School for Girls Parklands Primary St Mary's Primary Standens Barn Primary Stoke Bruene CE Primary The Parker Academy - E-ACT Thomas Becket Catholic School Tiffield CE Primary Towcester Church of England Primary School Walgrave Academy Waynflete Infants’ Welton Academy Whittlebury CE Primary Yardley Gobian CE Primary. The majority of these schools have already signed up to start working towards either the Healthy Schools Silver or Gold Award following this achievement. Silver involves them focusing on a universal and targeted health priority in their setting and putting an intervention in place. Gold focuses on schools measuring the impact of their interventions and embedding it longer term into their school. People can visit our Healthy Schools Award Programme pages for more information The support and encouragement from the Healthy Schools Service was invaluable throughout the process. There were lots of things we already did that we could use, so it was not lots of additional work. It was good to acknowledge all we do in school that helps our staff and pupils to be healthy. Our children have been very proactive about supporting mental health initiatives. It also helped us to pinpoint where we could improve and what to work on next. Achieving the Bronze Award was a proud moment, that was celebrated by the whole school. We are looking forward to working on our Silver Award. Charlie Vickers. SENDCo at Hunsbury Park Primary School It is fantastic to see the second cohort of schools who have received the bronze level award as part of our healthy schools’ programme. Gaining this accreditation recognises their commitment to health and wellbeing and the ongoing work to improve the whole school’s wellbeing. Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education I am delighted that 40 of our schools have received this award that celebrates their commitment to keeping children across West Northamptonshire healthy. The number of schools who have participated in this scheme is so encouraging, and I am proud of West Northamptonshire Council’s continued effort to keeping our residents safe and well. Cllr Matt Golby, Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Wellbeing and Health Integration Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 11, 2024

West Northants SEND partnership responds to inspection report

Supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) 11 July 2024 Partners involved in providing SEND solutions across West Northamptonshire have today decided to publish an inspection report by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission (CQC). All partners have a shared ambition that our children have the Best Start in Life, while recognising there is a lot of work to do to achieve this. This is why partners are working hard to progress a range of joint actions that will address significant concerns raised in the latest inspection of services for children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) in West Northamptonshire. In agreement with Ofsted and the CQC, West Northamptonshire Council, the NHS Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board and Northamptonshire Children’s Trust have published the inspection report to progress the action required. Priority work progresses at pace in response to the report, which can be found on our SEND pages . It identifies failings that must be urgently addressed by the West Northamptonshire Local Area SEND Partnership. The Partnership fully accepts the findings of the inspection and apologises to children, young people and their families where we have fallen short. The partnership also includes Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, schools and West Northants Voices in Partnership. Whilst finding that SEND services are not good enough, with many children and young people waiting too long for their needs to be assessed and for suitable provision, inspectors also recognised the “green shoots” of improvement and clear partnership commitment to making critical improvements to address this. They highlighted the ‘ambitious SEND strategy, co-produced with children and young people and parents, and acknowledged ‘it is too soon to see the impact’ of the work being done to improve outcomes. The local partnership has developed a Priority Action Plan (PAP) in line with the requirements from OFSTED, the Department for Education (DFE) and NHS England, and has been approved by Ofsted. The PAP is aligned with West Northamptonshire’s SEND & Alternative Provision Strategy and been developed with all partners represented at the SEND & Alternative Provision Partnership Improvement Board. The local area SEND partnership will now meet with DfE and NHSE at regular intervals during the next eighteen months to ensure the delivery of the action plan. Inspectors recognised how ‘parent voices and the views of children and young people with SEND, are now heard much more effectively’, with professionals across the Partnership ‘engaging positively’ to put in place the new SEND strategy. As well as this, inspectors highlighted where children and young people with SEND receive specialist support from the Northamptonshire Children’s Trust Disability Team, they receive timely assessment and appropriate advice to meet their needs. They also found that children and young people with SEND ‘benefit from early help services that provide support at home and in the community’, as well as ‘a strong emotional health and wellbeing offer’, and those with a visual or hearing impairment are well supported by a ‘strong, needs-led service’. The Partnership is now focusing on several priority actions that require urgent attention to address the findings of the report including: Improving the timeliness and quality of Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessments so that children’s needs are fully identified, and the right support is provided at the earliest opportunity. At the end of last year, WNC commissioned a team of Educational Psychologists to support with overdue assessments with positive progress being made, setting a positive trajectory for improvement. To further support this, at WNC’s last cabinet meeting £1.35million of funding was approved to increase capacity in the Council’s SEND team to meet the increased demand being experienced – since April 2021 there has been 40 per cent increase in EHCP requests (an increase of over 1,000). Developing a partnership joint strategic needs assessment (JSNA) that informs a joint commissioning plan to ensure outcomes are informed based on evidence of local population need, and to support the best use of resources across the partnership. A working group has been set up to develop a JSNA for children and young people with SEND that includes data from across the partnership to inform local need, planning and outcomes. Addressing current waiting times for speech and language therapy, mental health services and neurodevelopmental assessments to support early identification for plans to be developed to support them. Additional staffing capacity has been agreed by the partnership for the Speech and Language Therapy service. Resources are being refocussed across specialist therapeutic pathways within child and adolescent mental health community services to increase access. Improved navigation tools for emotional wellbeing and mental health services are being developed for children and young people and professionals. A Community Paediatric Review has been undertaken to transform the early years and primary school neurodevelopmental assessment pathways. This will explore all opportunities to introduce extra capacity and innovative practice. Improving the partnership approach to speech, communication and language needs to embed recommendations swiftly . The partnership jointly commissioned a nationally recognised programme to analyse needs, and this has provided useful recommendations for improvement and future transformation. A working group has been set up to identify delivery options for earlier identification and support for children with speech, language and communication needs. The inspection outcome highlights failings within the service which we had previously identified and which we are working hard to remedy. We accept the findings of the OFSTED inspection and will continue to strive to do better for our SEND children, young people and families. I am absolutely committed to seeing this change happen and we have been working hard to build positive, strong foundations for this. We recognise the ongoing work which we need to carry out to address the concerns arising from complaints and feedback from our service users and we are incorporating this into our improvement plan which seeks to carry out continual development. We have recently welcomed three additional colleagues who will support with this work. Inspectors noted that some of the work we are doing is still quite new and it is too early to see the desired impact and we have been open in that. Unfortunately, due to the scale of transformation needed these changes will take time and they must be made working closely with schools, health colleagues, our Children’s Trust and most of all with families. Involvement from families, children and young people was recognised within the report and I would like to share thanks to all those who have been involved – their contribution has been so valuable, and we will continue to build on this engagement to ensure their voices remain at the heart of our planning, conversations and next steps. The £1.35million investment approved at Cabinet, will make a huge difference, enabling further capacity in our team to improve the quality and timeliness for ECP needs assessment. I am confident this will set a positive trajectory to make these critical changes and be a significant step forward for the service. Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families, Education and Skills It is our absolute priority to make sure immediate action takes place to continue to drive the urgent improvements which are required as highlighted in this report. Some of this work is already underway and it is now critical that we continue to build momentum across our partnership in health, education and social care to improve services to these children, young people and families who have been let down. The priority action plan will outline specific actions for each of our organisations and we will make the critical changes outlined in this plan as quickly as possible to work towards achieving far better outcomes that the children, young people and families in this county deserve and expect. Chief Nursing Officer at Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board, Yvonne Higgins We are committed to working collaboratively with our partners to drive forward the priority plan to improve the experiences and outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Whilst it is reassuring that the inspectors saw that the Children’s Disability Team carry out timely assessments and give appropriate advice to meet the needs of children and young people most in need of social care support, we know that there is still a lot of work to do. Alongside our partners we want to ensure that all children, young people and families with SEND receive the best possible services and support. Julian Wooster, Chair of Northamptonshire Children’s Trust The result and findings of the Ofsted and CQC inspection align with the perspectives shared by our members and ourselves, which makes them unsurprising. As representatives of the Parent Carer community, we are deeply troubled by the findings of the recent Ofsted & CQC report highlighting widespread and systematic failings in SEND provision within our local area. We share the concerns expressed by families across the SEND community. West Northants Voices in Partnership are committed to advocating for the rights and interests of children and young people with SEND and their families. We stand in solidarity with all those affected by these failings and are committed to working collaboratively with the Local Authority, Education, Health, Social Care, and other stakeholders to address the issues identified and drive meaningful change. Our priority is to ensure that the voices of parent carers are heard and valued. We will actively engage with the local authority, schools, and relevant agencies to hold them accountable for addressing the failings highlighted in the report and to advocate for improved SEND provision across West Northamptonshire. We call for transparency, accountability, and swift action to remedy the failings identified in the report and to ensure that children and young people with SEND receive the support and resources they need to succeed. Together, we can work towards a future where every child, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We look forward to the return of the inspectors in 18 months, where we hope the Local Area SEND Partnership leaders and stakeholders will demonstrate the effectiveness of the implemented measures with positive outcomes for children, young people with SEND, and their families. The West Northants Voices in Partnership team would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to everyone who contributed to our Padlet pages and reached out to us via email and allowing us to share with the inspectors directly. Statement from West Northamptonshire Voices in Partnership Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 12, 2024

Wellbeing toolkit launched to support workplaces across West Northamptonshire

12 July 2024 Employers of any size across West Northamptonshire can now access a wellbeing toolkit designed to provide practical guidance on how to enhance wellbeing in the workplace and improve business outcomes. Research shows that a good workplace wellbeing programme can have a positive impact on employee happiness and engagement, increase productivity and improve customer service and business outcomes. The toolkit aims to encourage businesses to adopt an insight and data led approach to workplace wellbeing, improving the health and wellbeing of their employees and subsequently their business performance. West Northamptonshire Council has launched the free to use, self-service Workplace Wellbeing Toolkit that is available to all businesses across the area. It offers a step-by-step guide to workplace wellbeing. Providing an overview of what wellbeing is, how businesses can invest in it, how they can use existing data to enhance their wellbeing programmes. It helps employers to create an action plan across a wide range of wellbeing topics to support the specific needs of their employees. “We are pleased to be able to launch our workplace wellbeing toolkit which aims to support businesses with enhancing their employee wellbeing offer. It has been developed by our public health specialists in partnership with existing businesses to ensure that it meets the needs of businesses and their employees. “We will be continuing to develop the toolkit over the coming months and years based on the feedback from local businesses.” Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services Northampton Community Foundation Trust are great exemplars of workplace wellbeing having won the Workplace Wellbeing Award in 2023. “We put wellbeing in the workplace at the heart of our HR policy. As a grant making charity which invests many funds into wellbeing across our communities, we think it is incredibly important that we lead from the front and promote good wellbeing for staff and volunteers. Staff that feel valued at work are more likely to thrive and achieve their best. This enhances staff retention and provides a more nourishing and rewarding work experience for building a positive team culture and for achieving our mission as the leading grant making charity in the county. Our commitment includes a flexible working policy, being living wage accredited, providing wellbeing activities, a menopause policy and investing in our work around equity, diversity and inclusion.” Rachel McGrath, Chief Executive To find out more about workplace wellbeing services across West Northamptonshire visit: Workplace Wellbeing Support Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 12, 2024

Pride for first cohort of Northamptonshire firefighters to achieve apprentice qualification

A cohort of firefighters have become the first ever in Northamptonshire to receive an apprenticeship qualification with the Service. The 14 firefighters have received the Level 3 Operational Firefighter qualification from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, and demonstrates the Fire Service’s desire to develop our firefighters and equip them with skills and qualifications that will prove beneficial for the rest of their working lives. Our new apprentices were presented with their certificates at Fire HQ in Wellingborough yesterday (July 9) by Deputy Chief Fire Officer Simon Tuhill, and were also paid a visit by new Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone. Deputy CFO Simon Tuhill (pictured below right) said: “This is the first time ever that our firefighters have been able to achieve an accredited apprenticeship qualification through the Service, and this is a qualification that can not only help progress their career here in Northamptonshire Fire but is also a transferable qualification that can help them progress on whatever path they wish to follow. “It is important that we help to develop our staff and give them valuable skills, and I know they all found it a positive experience – so it’s important also to thank our training instructors who helped them on this journey.” The apprenticeship took two years for the cohort to complete and saw them undertake practical examinations to demonstrate their firefighting skills, as well as completing knowledge and understanding testing to showcase their understanding of the role and how they have helped with safety in the local community. The end point assessment involved them being assessed by experienced independent instructors from other Fire and Rescue Services who determined if they had met the required standards, and NFRS was delighted with the feedback that was received about all the apprentice firefighters. One of the firefighters to receive an apprenticeship is Charlotte Cowley (pictured below with DCFO Tuhill), who joined Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service two years ago and is currently wholetime on Blue Watch in Corby. She said: “The first year of study was pretty intense, and I had to do that on top of my operational duties as a firefighter. But I would say that compared to when I first joined, I never thought I would have been able to learn as much as I have. “It’s been a steep learning curve, but it’s been an incredibly fulfilling experience and I am so happy to have achieved it.” Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service will be recruiting for new apprentice firefighters in the near future – please keep an eye on our social media platforms and our News Page for an announcement soon.

July 10, 2024

West Northants to host stage of men's Tour of Britain

Parks, sports and leisure 10 July 2024 West Northamptonshire will welcome Britain’s biggest professional cycle this September, as we play host to the penultimate stage of the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men. Taking place on Saturday 7 September, the stage will start in Northampton town centre and take in a route through West Northamptonshire of around 150 kilometres (93 miles), before heading back to the finish line in Northampton. We’re delighted to be bringing top-level racing and the joy of cycling to communities across the country in September, with six stages to showcase the very best of Britain’s character and terrain. We’re enormously thankful to the local partners who are supporting the delivery of this year’s race, as we look to build on the momentum of June’s successful Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Women. I’ve no doubt that their communities will be out in force to welcome the riders, and make it another memorable week of racing to cap off a huge summer of cycling. British Cycling Events Managing Director, Jonathan Day This area is no stranger to professional cycling, having held women’s Tours of Britain in 2014 and 2016, but this will mark the first occasion that the men’s event has come to the county. We are extremely excited to be hosting the world-class Tour of Britain race for the first time this September. Events like this play an important role in bringing communities together and inspiring people to take up sport and live a more active and healthier lifestyle. They also provide a significant boost to our local economy and showcase our wonderful area to a global audience. When previously hosting the Women’s Tour we saw a record number of spectators visiting West Northamptonshire and lining the route to show their support and we very much hope to witness that again this year as we celebrate all those taking part in the race. As a Council we are committed to providing opportunities to get involved in sports and physical activity and by hosting this international event showcasing prominent cyclists we hope to inspire the next generation of budding athletes right here in West Northants. Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure The Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men begins in the Scottish Borders on Tuesday 3 September, visiting the Tees Valley, and South Yorkshire over subsequent stages. Following the stage in West Northamptonshire the race concludes in Suffolk on Sunday 8 September after six stages of racing. More details of the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men, including the stage five route map, detailed stage timings, and competing teams will be announced in the coming weeks . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 10, 2024

Council to procure provider for new homelessness support service

10 July 2024 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) will undertake a competitive procurement process to seek a provider to deliver a new Multiple Complex and High Needs Support Service for people with a history of rough sleeping or at risk of rough sleeping. The service will be located at Broadmead Court in Northampton and will consist of 18 units (20 bedspaces) and specialist support to address gaps in the homelessness pathway to help increase residents’ resilience and equip them with the necessary tools to enable them to move on to sustainable and independent living. The proposed commissioned service will focus on preventing and reducing homelessness by delivering support which is person centred, trauma informed and seeks to break the cycle of homelessness, leading to move on into independent living and stable accommodation. As part of the commissioning process, which was approved by WNC’s Cabinet yesterday (9 July), engagement will take place in July and August 2024 with both internal and external stakeholders including local ward councillors and service users to inform the service specification and requirements and ensure delivery of a model that meets the current and future needs of the client group. Research commissioned around the health and housing needs of rough sleepers has identified that there are no dedicated specialist services or arrangements to support this cohort locally resulting in a significant unmet need in the higher intensity support provision. The service will commence following handover of the building due in Autumn 2025 and will be funded by the Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP) and delivered through the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and Homes England. It will support the Council’s Single Rough Sleeping and Homelessness Pathway which aims to prevent homelessness and reduce rough sleeping in West Northamptonshire. “Evidence shows that people sleeping rough experience profound health inequalities and complex vulnerabilities which require specialist support and often have negative health, housing, social and wellbeing outcomes. “This service will effectively provide a wraparound service which not only addresses homelessness prevention but also aims to improve individuals’ wider personal circumstances and quality of life, ranging from physical health; mental health; employment; education; training; better sense of community; wellbeing; and access to support services. “To achieve this, we want to work with stakeholders and people with a lived experience of homelessness and rough sleeping to co-produce a service that meets the existing and future needs of users. Feedback from this engagement will form the specification and criteria used during the commissioning process, which we hope to begin later this year.” Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 10, 2024

West Northants libraries launch Summer Reading Challenge 2024

10 July 2024 This summer, children aged 4-11 can visit any West Northamptonshire library from 20 July to join the 'Marvellous Makers' Summer Reading Challenge, firing up their imaginations through the power of reading and creative expression. In partnership with Create, a leading arts charity, and public libraries, this year's Challenge celebrates kids' creativity and storytelling abilities. Children will be encouraged to explore new books and stories while taking part in free activities, from arts and crafts to music, dance, and more: libraries will be offering a vibrant array of arts and crafts themed events for children over the Summer from ballet workshops, wind chime making, magic shows, decoupage, slime and much, much more! The bespoke Challenge artwork is illustrated by celebrated artist Natelle Quek, bringing the 'Marvellous Makers' theme vibrantly to life. Sign up to the challenge anytime at your local library from 6 July. For further information regarding the Summer Reading Challenge and events please ask in your local library branch or visit the West Northamptonshire Council Libraries webpage . Alongside the Summer Reading Challenge 2024 Marvellous Makers, delivered by libraries in partnership with the Reading Agency and Create, libraries are running a competition to celebrate what people love most about where they live. We would like young artists to create an artwork showcasing what they love about where they live; this could be a local park, shops, school, cafe or even the library. This competition is open to young artists aged 5-12 years old. They can submit one artwork in the form of a painting, drawing, photograph or model. Artists should use recycled or reused materials to make their models, submissions using high value materials such as Lego cannot be accepted. Artists can collaborate and submit an artwork as a group, or one that they have created for a school project. Full information and application forms can be obtained from any West Northamptonshire library. Northamptonshire artist and sculptor, Lisa Lovett of Earthly Arts Studio based at Chester House is the guest judge and will be touring library exhibitions to select a finalist from each to be part of an exhibition and grand final held at The Gathering Space in Northampton’s Grosvenor shopping centre on 28 September 2024. All artists who have had a piece selected will receive a prize, with the overall winner receiving a £50 Hobbycraft voucher and their image being featured on a limited run of library cards. “Summer is the perfect time to get lost in a good book and this year’s Summer Reading Challenge provides the perfect opportunity to explore the many amazing books available in our libraries while enjoying a variety of free arts and crafts, music and dance activities – and take part in a fantastic competition to be in with the chance of winning a prize! “By participating in the challenge, young people will have the opportunity to foster their creative skills over the summer break as well as explore new reading material, develop skills, and discover new interests. “It’s free to take part and I encourage families across West Northamptonshire to sign up and discover the many books and services available in our local libraries.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 11, 2024

West Northants Partners with System C to Deliver New Cloud-Based Adult Social Care System

11 July 2024 West Northamptonshire Council has signed a new five-year contract with social care software specialist, System C, to implement its Liquidlogic case management application for adult social care in the region. The new cloud-based system is due to go live in February 2025, offering an integrated, comprehensive single view of individuals. It will incorporate a person’s GP data and provide residents with the ability to manage their own records through a dedicated customer-facing portal. Once live, the solution will be used daily by a council workforce of over 500 staff providing complex care and support to over 4,500 residents. More widely it will also be accessed by other users including social care providers, carers, and the voluntary sector. The new case management application will include a fully integrated finance system with the key benefit of streamlining assessment and payment processes. This integration will enable the council to enhance efficiencies and take a proactive approach in managing referrals for individuals requiring adult social care services. For residents, it will provide a dedicated portal where they can manage their account from one simple login, providing improved access for self-managing their records. “The implementation of System C represents an exciting milestone in our council's digital and technology innovation strategy. This move aligns with our vision to transform West Northamptonshire into a digitally inclusive community, where all residents can conveniently access council services. We chose System C because of the quality of its system and the exemplary standard of data it could provide, with a high level of importance focused on usability and seamless integration with the contract finance system. We wanted a platform that could provide a fully flexible and intuitive solution, and System C demonstrated it could meet that essential need.” Cllr Matt Golby, Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at West Northamptonshire Council “We’re thrilled to be working with West Northamptonshire Council to support adult social care in the region. We cater to the diverse needs of numerous local government teams and the communities they serve. Understanding the constraints of council budgets, we are committed to developing innovative solutions that empower councils like West Northamptonshire to enable self-management for individuals while offering council staff the flexibility to adapt to local operational methods. “Our social care technology provides a holistic view of care records from a single platform, so teams can manage their workload, support vulnerable people and families and deliver statutory services as efficiently as possible. This approach simplifies the work of practitioners, enabling them to deliver enhanced support in a more streamlined way.” Nick Wilson, Chief Executive Officer at System C Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 09, 2024

Partnership project provides free junior activity memberships to young people in Northampton

09 July 2024 Northampton East Local Area Partnership (LAP) has partnered with Trilogy Active at Lings Forum Leisure Centre to offer free Junior Memberships to children in the area who might not otherwise have access to them. The programme delivered by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Trilogy Active will start just before the summer holidays, providing 75 six-month junior memberships. Three Primary Schools in close proximity to Lings Forum Leisure Centre are participating in the programme including Thorplands Primary, Standens Barn and Lumbertubs, with each school allocating 25 memberships to selected students. Students will be selected based on means testing for those on free school meals, with the schools selecting the students they feel would benefit most from the programme. Compared to West Northamptonshire and the national average, East Northampton faces higher levels of total crime and anti-social behaviour, unemployment and unemployment benefit claimants. This programme aims to eliminate the financial barriers to physical activity for local young people, in turn promoting healthier communities. The impact of the pilot will be monitored and evaluated to understand whether the removal of financial barriers increases physical activity, improves mental health and the wider determinants of health. The Junior Active Memberships will provide access to either a weekly lesson or club, including swimming, gymnastics or football. The membership will also give the students access to after school buzz clubzz, holiday activities, kids’ screenings at the Forum Cinema, swimming, term time Berzerk active play entry for under 10s, gym use for 11+, off peak racket sports, and roller skating. “This project is a fantastic opportunity for young people in Northampton to access a wide range of physical activities which they may not have otherwise had access to. “Through this exciting partnership project we hope to inspire young people to develop healthy habits, boost mental health and promote overall wellbeing in the community.” Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC “We are genuinely really pleased to be a part of this important and empowering project. By providing 75 Junior Active Memberships to children across the East of Northampton we are ensuring they have the opportunity to have a weekly swimming, gymnastics or football lesson along with use our swimming pools, our cinema and after school and holiday activities such as roller skating, dodgeball and basketball. “We are making this investment of over £26,000 because we are passionate about the physical and emotional wellbeing of children from across the community that we serve. We look forward to welcoming them to our centres and are proud to work in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council on this exciting venture.” John Fletcher, Managing Director of Trilogy Active “We are really grateful to have been able to work in partnership with Trilogy Active to provide memberships for some of our pupils. “At our school, we are passionate about ensuring our children receive enriching active opportunities, and being able to offer free Junior Active Memberships certainly achieves that. “The families I have spoken to have been really grateful too, and the pupils are excited to start their memberships.” Beth Conroy, Thorplands Primary School Teacher Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 09, 2024

Online resource launched for families across West Northamptonshire

09 July 2024 A new online resource focused on providing families with a wealth of resources and local service information has been launched today by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC). The Family Hubs website provides bespoke guidance to cater to the needs of families at every life stage; from conception and pregnancy, through to toddlers, school admissions and the teenage years. It offers a seamless experience, organising information by age range to facilitate easy access to relevant support. The website provides comprehensive guidance and local service details tailored to meet the specific needs of the local community, whether they’re expecting a child, raising a toddler, or navigating the teenage years. Currently in its initial phase, the Family Hubs website is set to evolve further with the addition of new features and expanded content over the coming months. WNC are also working closely with community organisations and partners to look at how it can extend this offer across all nine of our Local Area Partnerships (LAPs) in West Northants. West Northamptonshire Council is committed to continually enhancing this resource to better serve the community, ensuring families have access to up-to-date and pertinent information. Please do take the time to explore the Family Hubs website and discover the wealth of support available. Visit the Family Hubs in West Northamptonshire here: Family Hubs “We are pleased to be launching the family hubs which provides an online tool to support families and their children right from the start of planning their pregnancy, through to their teenage years. The dedicated website page provides practical guidance for children of all ages, as well as details of local services to support families. We look forward to working with parents and carers to continue to develop the resources available to ensure they meet the needs of our communities.” Cllr Fiona Baker, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at WNC This website launch comes as part of a wider project focused on increasing early support and intervention for families and young people. Together with other local organisations, the Council is looking at the early help offer and how this can be strengthened to ensure there is the right, preventative support available including in-person Family Hubs, offering a place in local communities for families and young people to access. The first in-person Family Hub is set to open in Towcester later this year, with other locations in Northampton and Daventry to follow. Click here for more information and to visit the family hubs webpage. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 04, 2024

Date confirmed for Northampton market to return to historic square

04 July 2024 Northampton Market is set to return to the historic market square from 20 September, following the area undergoing extensive regeneration to provide a renewed space for residents, businesses, and traders. Northampton Town Centre is benefiting from ongoing large-scale investment in regeneration through £24 million worth of Government support through the Town's Fund grant. This providing a catalyst for further private sector investment and confidence in the town with more than £140 million being invested into the Four Waterside and Marefair Development and £8 million worth of private funding boosting the adjacent Market Walk scheme as well as significant opportunities and investment bringing the M&S and BHS buildings back to life after their closure. This will benefit residents, attract more visitors, and promote the area as a destination for all, creating a town centre of the future, bringing a better experience and more opportunities to all that want to live, work or spend their leisure time here. 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, one of the largest in the UK, is anticipated to be fully open in October. As part of the extensive refurbishment traders will have access to bespoke, fixed stalls as well as pop up stalls. These modern fixed stalls benefit from electric, water and lighting, can be customised to meet the needs of traders and provide a safe and secure place to store goods. The wider Market Square will be enhanced by the new shoe-inspired water feature, dedicated events space and improved landscaping will create a welcoming destination and drive footfall, and to provide a catalyst for private sector investment into Northampton town centre. These improved facilities are also attracting a number of new businesses and by the time we open we will have an enhanced range of quality products as well as welcoming back the existing, valued market traders. "The refurbishment of our Market Square is a core part of the significant investment in, and regeneration of Northampton and we are delighted to be able to confirm that the market will reopen at the historic square from 20 September. “It has been fantastic to hear from local business owners and traders who would like to be a part of the reimagined market, which will offer a wide range of high-quality local produce and services. We are delighted to be able to welcome a diverse mix of stalls and traders when we reopen in just a few weeks’ time. Visitors will find an exciting 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. “It is important to recognise the patience of traders and thank them for their support, while throughout the temporary relocation which has enabled us to carry out this vital regeneration and provide them with an enhanced space to trade from. Over the coming weeks we will be working with new and existing traders to ensure that they have everything they need ahead of reopening. “Stepnell and their development contractors will continue to finalise the project ahead of its full anticipated completion this October.” Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure 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 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. Meanwhile one of the town’s busiest shopping districts, Abington and Fish Street is undergoing extensive refurbishment which will lift the quality of the public spaces through high quality materials, increasing seating and planting, introducing new art and play opportunities along the street, as well as spaces for outdoor dining and community activity. The scheme is well underway and is set to be completed this winter, enhancing the reimagined Market Square. People across Northampton can continue to visit the market at its temporary location at Commercial Street Car Park before 20 September. Find out more about Northampton market Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 08, 2024

Have your say on the West Northamptonshire Draft Tenancy Strategy

08 July 2024 Residents are invited to have their say on West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Draft Tenancy Strategy which sets out the approach that Councils and Registered Providers of Social Housing need to consider when developing their own tenancy policies. Every UK local authority is required by law to have a tenancy strategy outlining: The types of tenancies The circumstances that different types of tenancies will be granted The length of fixed-term tenancies The circumstances where a further tenancy can be granted following a fixed-term let As well as aligning its objectives to support the Council’s Corporate plan and key housing-related strategies, the draft West Northamptonshire Tenancy Strategy seeks to: Set clear expectations of all social registered providers operating across West Northamptonshire in tenancy related matters Highlight the Council’s preferred approach to tenancy types offered Encourage social housing providers to offer greater tenancy support and tenancy sustainment Encourage social rent levels in new build homes Once adopted, the Tenancy Strategy will replace the existing tenancy strategies currently in place in West Northamptonshire. West Northamptonshire residents who hold a tenancy with a registered provider (otherwise known as a housing association), local tenant and resident groups, registered providers, and other interested parties and stakeholders are all encouraged to share their views in the survey. “Our tenants should be involved in shaping the housing services they receive. This consultation provides all interested parties with an opportunity to comment on the draft strategy and take part in decision-making to help shape housing provision in West Northamptonshire. “This strategy is about more than just council housing services – we want to work with residents, local partner organisations and groups and the wider community to create and deliver a shared long-term strategy that works for everyone.” Cllr Rosie Herring, Cabinet Member for Housing People can take part in the survey by visiting the West Northamptonshire Council consultation hub before midnight on Sunday 18 August. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 03, 2024

Cost of living support on offer this summer

Cost of living support 03 July 2024 A series of cost-of-living roadshow events and pop-up stalls will be held across West Northamptonshire this summer to highlight the support available to residents. People are encouraged to go along to speak to a range of organisations to find out what help is available to them and where to find it. Organised by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), the events will offer information on accessing grants, money and debt advice, wellbeing tips and much more. WNC's wellbeing service and community partners will be at: Woodford Halse Community Food Larder (The Nest, Woodford Halse Primary Academy, Scrivens Hill, NN11 3SU) on Tuesday 9 July from Midday to 2:30pm Duston Library Welcoming Space (Pendle Road, Duston, NN5 6DT) on Wednesday 17 July from 2pm to 4pm Albanian Cultural Association Welcoming Space (Leicester Street, Northampton, NN1 3RS) on Wednesday 24 July from 10am to 1:30pm Saints Community Trust Welcoming Space (St James Park, Churchill Way, Brackley, NN13 7EJ) on Wednesday 14 August from 10am - 12:30pm Towcester SNVB Community Larder (The Riverside Centre, Islington Road, Towcester, NN12 6AU) on Thursday 22 August from 10am to 11:15am The service will also have a presence at Moulton’s Community Mature Drive Roadshow, Kings Heath Community Funday, Southbrook Community Funday and Northampton Pride. For those who are unable to attend these events but are keen to find out more, our cost of living support hub is full of information and advice to help all residents find the support and help available to them. If someone is unable to access the internet, they can also call our customer services team from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday on 0300 126 7000 and speak to somebody directly about the support available. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 04, 2024

West Northamptonshire to remember Srebrenica Genocide

04 July 2024 A ceremony of remembrance to honour the victims of the Srebrenica genocide on its 29th anniversary will take place on Thursday, 11 July, at 10.45am in the Guildhall courtyard on St Giles’ Square in Northampton. People are invited to join representatives from West Northamptonshire Council, the Lord-Lieutenants office, Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Diverse Communities Forum and others, to hear speeches and observe a one-minute silence at 11am, in honour of the 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys who were massacred in Srebrenica, Bosnia, in July 1995. The service will be followed by refreshments served in the Court Room. The Srebrenica flag will also be raised at each of West Northamptonshire Council’s main offices in Daventry, Northampton and Towcester and candles of remembrance lit to mark the occasion. The day of remembrance is part of the Srebrenica Memorial Week, which runs from 12 to 19 July, with this year’s theme ‘I Am Because You Are’ underlining the importance of standing up against those who try to divide us and standing up for each other against hatred, discrimination, harassment or prejudice. It will also help empower everyone in our communities to understand the importance of interconnectedness to help build a safer, stronger, and more cohesive society for all. United Nations member states recently voted to declare 11 July an annual day of remembrance for victims of the 1995 Srebrenica massacre. Northamptonshire Police is committed to challenging all forms of hatred, prejudice and intolerance within communities. Anyone who has experienced a hate crime or incident is encouraged to report it to the police by calling 101. More information about this year’s theme and the memorial week can be found on the Remembering Srebrenica website. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 04, 2024

Plans in place to keep hundreds of thousands of race fans safe at British Grand Prix

Work is continuing at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service to help keep hundreds of thousands of race fans safe at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone this year. The four-day race weekend get underway on Thursday July 4 and is expected to see over 160,000 people in attendance on race day alone as the weekend culminates on Sunday July 7. Preparation for the event has been ongoing for the last nine months with a dedicated Silverstone Planning Team created within the Joint Operations Team, which works in partnership with Northamptonshire Police. The Team works with Silverstone Circuit and partners from Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire to understand and manage any potential risks that could occur during the event. The Service will also have a dedicated command team for the event which will oversee operational crews co-located with multi-agency partners onsite, whilst continuing to protect the communities of Northamptonshire. In addition, our Fire Protection Team have been working tirelessly over the months leading up to the Grand Prix with Silverstone and their contractors to offer advice in relation to safety plans and procedures. The work that the Fire Protection Team does covers a wide range of areas across the racing weekend. This includes safety within the temporary hospitality venues, crowd management at the on-site concerts and liaising with local hotels and accommodation to ensure all fire safety regulations are being followed. Members of the Fire Protection Team will also be visiting the campsites in and around the circuit, offering fire safety literature from our Prevention Team to provide campers with advice on how to stay safe from fire when at the event. Matt Butler, NFRS strategic commander for the British Grand Prix, said: “A huge amount of work goes on all year round to help make sure we are suitably prepared and able to respond to any type of incident whilst at attendance at the British Grand Prix.” Matt (pictured below left) added: “Planning for a major sporting event that will bring hundreds of thousands of people into the county is a big task that cannot be completed in isolation and I am confident that, alongside our multi-agency partners, we can ensure fans enjoy the event and go home safely.”

July 02, 2024

Food summer safety checklist

02 July 2024 Over the summer months many of us will be enjoying the warm weather and may be hosting family and friends. We’ve put together a simple checklist to help you make the most of your food and avoid becoming unwell because of poorly prepped or stored food and avoid food waste going in your bin. Step one - beforehand Check the number of people you’re cooking for if you’re hosting – check for any allergies or dietary needs Plan out your food to make the most of what you’re cooking and avoid waste Make the most out of offers or discounts to help save money where you can Step two – storing and preparing your food Store food in the right places, checking labels for storage instructions – make the most of fridge and freezers and store raw meat at the bottom of your fridge Check your fridge’s temperature, because the temperature of your fridge can rise when it's full, increasing the chance of food poisoning. Your fridge should be between 0-5°C Check for use by dates and stick to these, as tempting as it might be to go over a day or so Be sure to take any meat out to defrost the night or day before, defrost at the bottom of the fridge and ensure it is fully thawed before you begin cooking. Step three – cooking food Wash your hands before and throughout dinner preparations, especially after handling raw meat Use different chopping boards and utensils for raw and ready to eat/cooked food. Wash any equipment thoroughly in hot, soapy water between uses Make sure any meat is cooked through – there should be no visible pink meat, juices are running clear and use a food thermometer to check meat reaches 75°C in the thickest part Put leftovers in a sealed container inside the fridge within two hours of cooking, to be used within two days Split food into smaller portions to help speed up the cooling time. Step four – enjoying and leftovers Keep chilled foods out of the fridge for no longer than four hours / out of direct sunlight Eat food within two days of cooking or defrosting When reheating, only reheat once and ensure the food is steaming hot. To find out more about food safety and guidance visit the Food Standards Agency website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

July 01, 2024

Voting in the general election this Thursday 4 July

Electoral services 01 July 2024 Are you ready for the General Election this Thursday 4 July? West Northamptonshire Council will be administering the election for the Parliamentary Constituencies of Daventry, South Northamptonshire, Northampton North, and Northampton South, with voters in each constituency electing a Member of Parliament (MP). The candidates standing in each of the four constituencies can be viewed here Read on to find out everything you need to know in order to have your say in this election. Voting at a polling station Polling stations will be open from 7am until 10pm on Thursday 4 July, so you can cast your vote. You can find details of your polling station on your poll card, which was sent to you in the run-up to the election. If you have misplaced your poll card don't worry. You don't need it to vote and you can check details of your polling station here Don't forget your photo ID When you arrive at the polling station please give your name and address to the staff inside the polling station. You will also need to show your photo ID to confirm your identity. You can use an expired photo ID, so long as the image on the ID remains a good likeness to you. However it must be the original document - a photocopy is not acceptable Any of the following is acceptable: Passport (UK, EU/EEA, Commonwealth issued) Driving licence (including provisional licences) (UK, EU/EEA issued) Blue Badge Certain older/disabled people concessionary travel cards Identity card with PASS mark (Proof of Age Standards Scheme) Biometric Immigration document Defence identity card Certain national identity cards. Please check the list of acceptable forms of photo ID to ensure you have one that allows you to vote. Returning your postal vote If you arranged a postal vote and have left it too late to post it back, you can still bring your postal vote to the council offices or your polling station. You will need to complete a postal vote return form, which will be provided to you when handing in your vote. If you post your postal vote through a council letter box, it will be rejected. This is due to a change in the law. For more information visit The Electoral Commission website New constituency boundaries This election will use new constituency boundaries , after they were redrawn in 2023 to reflect population changes and to try to even out voter numbers in each area. This means you may be voting in a different constituency to previous elections. The new boundaries can be found by visiting the Boundary Commission for England Election results The votes will be counted once polls have closed at 10pm on Thursday 4 July, with the results expected to be announced in the early hours of Friday morning. The results for each of the four constituencies in the West Northamptonshire area will be published on our X and Facebook pages as soon as they are declared. They will also be posted on our Elections Results page Find out more More information about this election can be found on our General Election 2024 page Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?

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