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More than 5,400 home fire safety visits have been conducted in 2024 by Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service to help protect the most vulnerable people across Northamptonshire.

Data from January to December 2024 shows that over 3,900 visits have been carried out by crews with an additional 1,550 visits being carried out by Home Fire Safety Advisors.

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s specialist Prevention Team and their Home Fire Safety Advisors focus on people who are most vulnerable to fire due to frailty and complex needs, with enhanced visits. These enhanced visits to high-risk people look at all the factors that affect the likelihood of a fire taking place and consider how easily they can seek help and escape in an emergency.

Advice and support is provided to reduce the risk wherever possible with the addition of working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Where needed, visits can take place with carers and other agencies to ensure a joint approach to keeping someone safe. The Home Fire Safety Advisors can refer someone to other services if they identify the need for other kinds of care and support to reduce risks. Team members also conduct visits alongside the Arson Task Force for people whose property is at risk of arson.

Head of Prevention at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service Lisa Bryan said: “Our Home Fire Safety Visits are all about keeping the most vulnerable people of Northamptonshire safe and I am delighted that the continued hard work of firefighters and fire staff has seen more people protected. We know through the customer feedback we receive that these visits make a positive difference, helping to change behaviours and making people feel safer.”

Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone said: “Communities and prevention are at the core of my public safety plan, so I am pleased to see so many vulnerable people across Northamptonshire are being kept safe.”

If you would like to refer yourself, a friend or a family member for a Home Fire Safety Visit, this can be done by visiting www.northantsfire.gov.uk/home-safety-checks/
Or you can complete your own fire safety check online, which can be found at the link above.

Alternatively, you can also phone 01604 797 000.

someone wearing NFRS uniform reaching up to test a smoke alarm on the ceilingWhat happens during a Home Fire Safety Visit? 

After showing their ID at the front door, firefighters will come into your house and discuss a variety of safety measures that can keep you safe at home.

They will ask questions about your lifestyle and quickly identify any potential fire hazards in your home. These include things like electrical safety, how to stay safe when cooking and the use of candles.

Once any hazards have been identified, crews will talk to you about whether further referrals to other agencies might help to keep you safe or refer you to our Home Fire Safety Advisors for an enhanced visit.

Firefighters won’t leave until they have checked that you have suitable and working smoke alarms – and they will fit new ones if needed.

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21 February 2025

Ten pound note, five pound note and coins

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has continued to protect essential services and tackle significant challenges whilst setting a balanced budget for the year ahead.

At their meeting last night (Thursday, 20 February) councillors agreed the authority’s final budgets and Housing Revenue Account whilst also setting Council Tax for 2025/26.

WNC, along with councils across the country, continues to face severe financial pressures caused by increasing cost and demand for both children’s services and adult social care. Despite this, the Council has managed to set a balanced revenue budget for 2025/2026 of £959.6 million (£431.8 million excluding the Dedicated Schools Grant). 

WNC started its budgetary process this year with an anticipated shortfall of £53m for 2025/26 and embarked quickly on an early review of its finances, reducing the overspend to £39m by July, followed by a further major drive over the autumn to close the gap.

Key to helping the Council protect essential services whilst balancing the books in its fifth year as a unitary authority is the income it receives from Council Tax. The budget includes a Council Tax rise of 4.99%, in line with the Government’s threshold and representing an average increase on a Band D property of £1.71 a week, or £88.73 a year. This generates extra funding of around £19.2m – with 2% of the increase going towards funding adult social care.

The Council also continued to review, restructure and transform services within the organisation to find better, more efficient ways of working without adversely impacting the services it delivers to residents, generating efficiencies of around £25m for 2025/26.

The agreed budget also considered people’s feedback in the recent budget public consultation, which attracted nearly 400 responses from residents, businesses, partners and other stakeholders. It has also been subject to continuous review and scrutiny, including consideration by the cross-party group of members of the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
 

“Setting our budget has once again been complex and challenging given the ongoing pressures on public sector finances and the increasing demand for children’s and adults services, which account for 58p in every pound of our budget in the year ahead.

“Having identified a shortfall earlier this year we took a planned and prudent approach to reduce this, whilst always ensuring the needs of our communities remained at the forefront of all decisions and actions we made.”

Cllr Malcolm Longley, Cabinet Member for Finance at West Northamptonshire Council

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21 February 2025

lake surrounded by trees and shrubbery with Discover Northamptonshire and LVEP logos

A joint bid for a Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) for Northamptonshire has been approved by VisitEngland, paving the way for a far more co-ordinated and strategic approach to promoting the tourism sector.

Local Visitor Economy Partnerships have been introduced as part of the Government’s response to an independent review of how the nation’s visitor economy is co-ordinated and promoted and will have the potential to draw in additional support and funding from Westminster. This new national portfolio of LVEPs will work in collaboration locally, regionally and nationally on shared priorities and targets to support and grow the visitor economy.

As well as achieving a nationally recognised official status, LVEPs will provide strong leadership and management of their destinations. Working collaboratively with the public and private sector, they will help to shape and deliver national strategy and activities to promote sustainable growth.

The new partnership for Northamptonshire, which has been approved by a panel involving VisitEngland and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, will ensure that the greatest benefits are achieved for Northamptonshire’s visitor economy. 

As an LVEP, the Discover Northamptonshire partnership will have access to resources and guidance from VisitEngland on product distribution, business support and the opportunity to bid for funding and marketing. As part of the LVEP’s marketing, local activity is already being aligned with Visit Britain’s national  ‘Starring GREAT Britain’ campaign alongside the opportunity to tap into wider campaigns across the country in the future.

An important strand of support will be highlighting available Government funding streams as well as developing and providing a ‘toolkit’ to help the LVEP with bids to those streams.

“We are so excited to have achieved our LVEP accreditation - this is a massive milestone and opens up so many doors to boosting tourism in Northamptonshire.

“The co-ordinated approach over the past 3 years, involving both councils and partners from across the tourism sector in Northamptonshire, will help us to realise the full potential of the visitor economy.

“Our amazing range of independent and small businesses within the tourism and hospitality sector provide unique experiences for visitors, along with a huge range of flexible and interesting careers for people working in the industry.

“Now its time to harness the unique nature of Northamptonshire and as the accountable body, we’ll be working closely with West Northamptonshire Council and the LVEP Board to develop a Growth Plan for the area to help deliver our ambitious plans. We are in a really strong position given the recent adoption of the Northamptonshire Tourism Strategy, we have a team in place and are already hitting the ground running with our partners, we are also excited to be showcasing Northamptonshire as a must see destination for group travel, just one of the target markets, at the British Tourism and Travel Show on 19 and 20 March. We are also developing a business support package, with events and activities planned for English Tourism Week again in March.

“I am delighted that the collaboration between North and West Northamptonshire Councils along with our sector partners has achieved this accreditation, huge thanks to both sets of officers for their support and hard work, we have a long way to go but with everyone pushing in the same direction we can put Northamptonshire firmly on the map.”

Cllr Helen Howell, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Sport, Leisure, Culture and Tourism
“Securing the LVEP accreditation is a game-changer for Northamptonshire's tourism sector. This recognition will not only enhance our strategic approach to promoting the area but also unlock new opportunities for funding and support from the Government.

“With tourism contributing over £1 billion annually and supporting more than 30,000 jobs, this partnership allows us to harness the full potential of our vibrant visitor economy and put Northamptonshire on the map as a must visit destination. We look forward to collaborating with local businesses and stakeholders to showcase Northamptonshire’s unique attractions and drive sustainable growth in the sector.”

Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture, and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council
"Northamptonshire has a unique opportunity to elevate its visitor economy, attracting new investment, creating jobs, and showcasing the rich experiences our county has to offer. There is no better year to achieve this status than the year in which the Northamptonshire hosts the Women’s Rugby World Cup, celebrates 75 years of Formula 1 all alongside a cultural programme remembering the anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton.

“Securing LVEP accreditation is a significant achievement, made possible by the dedication and collaboration of North Northamptonshire Council, West Northamptonshire Council and all our partners across the public and private sectors. While challenges remain, this partnership brings a coordinated, strategic approach that will unlock new funding and support, allowing us to compete on a national stage. By working together, we can ensure Northamptonshire is firmly on the map as a must-visit destination."

Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership
“The Local Visitor Economy Partnerships (LVEP) programme is transforming the visitor economy landscape in England, supporting its growth in a more inclusive, accessible and sustainable way and I am delighted to welcome Discover Northamptonshire

“Working together, the LVEPs are simplifying our tourism landscape, ensuring England continues to be a compelling destination for both domestic and international visitors. As Discover Northamptonshire is established as an LVEP, VisitEngland will provide ongoing support including a dedicated regional lead.”

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes

Local Visitor Economy Partnerships involve both the private and public sectors and will need to follow a new national process to be eligible for support and potential funding from the Government. 

The development of a new Strategy for Northamptonshire has formed the foundations for the bid, with the first new LVEP Board having recently convened on 30 January to start shaping the key priorities for the county.

Businesses keen to get involved can email the Discover Northamptonshire team at [email protected] to express interest.

To find out what’s on and where to visit in Northamptonshire, visit the Discover Northamptonshire website and follow Discover Northamptonshire on Facebook, X and LinkedIn. 

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21 February 2025

White Poster with LGC Awards 2025 Finalist written on it

Services that support underrepresented communities in West Northamptonshire have been shortlisted for a prestigious national award.

The Well Northants programme has beaten off competition from other council and community initiatives across the country to reach the final stage of the Local Government Chronicle (LGC) awards. 

The programme has been instrumental in supporting underrepresented groups and communities including people living in isolated conditions or with limited access to support and care services. The project has seen community development workers embedded in these areas to work closely with the community, enabling West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) to deliver tailored support to those facing the most complex health and social challenges.

The programme has led to transformative outcomes, with more than 80% of participants reporting feeling more connected to their communities. Local projects have included sewing groups, education sessions for families, and pop-up food banks to support those in need.

In the past year, the programme has invested £30,720 into building community assets and funding 19 projects, 14 of which were voted on by local community members. 

“Being shortlisted for this award is a recognition of the incredible work and ongoing commitment that WNC, alongside its many partners, is doing to make West Northamptonshire a truly inclusive place to live, work, visit and thrive.

“We are committed to ensuring that every voice is heard, and we will continue to work to break down barriers for underrepresented communities. This recognition is a testament to the tireless efforts of our teams and community partners who have made this possible.”

Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities


Other key Well Northants projects include the Semilong and Briar Hill evening hubs, which provide a vibrant space for weekly arts, crafts, and active play in a supportive and engaging environment. These hubs also offer educational opportunities outside traditional hours, with a split format that allows adults to gain essential skills such as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), budgeting, and digital literacy, while children participate in activities nearby. 

Another impactful initiative is the Healing Garden, a therapeutic space funded by Well Northants. Rooted in the belief that gardens offer restorative and emotionally calming benefits, the Healing Garden provides a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of Northampton. Open to all, the garden encourages visitors to reduce isolation and improve their emotional wellbeing through mindfulness. It also offers parents and young children a chance to connect with nature, while providing valuable volunteer opportunities and a space for quiet reflection. The garden is accessible via the Cathedral carpark on Barrack Road (NN2 6AG) and remains open to the public.

Additionally, the You Are What You Grow project seeks to transform two neglected outdoor spaces within the Danetre and Southbrook Learning Village (DSLV) in Daventry. The vision for these areas is to develop them into a community garden and sensory space, as well as an outdoor learning environment for students and the wider community. The project will not only serve as an extension of the classroom but also provide a safe space for mental wellness and expose children to life experiences they may otherwise not have had.

Beyond Well Northants, WNC has continued to support the full range of communities in the District through various initiatives, such as the Northampton Peace Vigil, Northampton Pride festival, Holocaust Memorial Day, the Inspirational Women Awards and the Male Role Model Awards. The Council’s Community Forums have also ensured that seldom-heard groups are actively involved in decision-making, promoting a more inclusive and vibrant West Northamptonshire.

The winners of the LGC Awards will be announced at a ceremony on Wednesday, 11 June 2025. Find out more about the Well Northants programme via the Well Northants page.

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19 February 2025

large cream building with cars in front of arches

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust are working together to explore potential opportunities for enhancing the Racecourse Pavilion, to deliver fresh outcomes that improve community wellbeing. 

Residents, community groups, and businesses will soon be encouraged to give their thoughts and ideas for shaping the future of the Pavilion, including potential opportunities such as hosting events and using the space flexibly to support activities.

The historic Racecourse Pavilion is a valued community asset that presents an opportunity for revitalising as a dynamic hub in a financially sustainable way that serves the wider community.

Under the Voluntary, Community, Social Enterprise, and Faith Group (VCS) policy, a new community-curated approach supported by Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust, has been proposed for its potential to unlock significant benefits to the community. Further engagement is required to assess local demand and ensure that any future plans align with the Council’s wider priorities, particularly in relation to health, wellbeing, and the local environment.

Further details will be provided soon on how people can get involved by providing their thoughts and views and are encouraged to look out for updates on WNC’s news channels, social media and website in the coming days. 
 

"Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust’s experience and approach to developing a vision for the Racecourse Pavilion has the potential to not only celebrate its heritage but also to create a vibrant community hub that supports the wellbeing of local residents. We look forward to working alongside the Trust and community partners to explore how we can best enhance this much-loved space for all to enjoy."Cllr David Smith, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities
"Investing in community spaces like the Racecourse Pavilion provides an opportunity to improve mental and physical wellbeing through social connection, activity, and engagement. By working collaboratively, we can ensure this historic site becomes a thriving centre that meets the needs of local people while promoting long-term health benefits."Dr. David Smart, Trustee of Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust and Chair of Action for Happiness Northampton


Future plans could seek to incorporate the first floor of the Pavilion, taking a holistic approach to the building’s development. As the first floor was not included in the initial VCS process, any decision on this will be considered by the Council’s Cabinet later this year.

West Northamptonshire Council and Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust will continue working together to explore how best to ensure the long-term sustainability of this historic community asset while maximising its benefits for local people.

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  1. Regeneration vision for Northampton Town Centre to be developed
  2. One flag, many nations – join us to celebrate the Commonwealth Day
  3. Get ready for the local elections this May
  4. This Spring, grow your potential in one of Northamptonshire’s Libraries
  5. QR codes unveil the history of Northampton’s Market Square
  6. Cabinet gives the green light for St James Depot regeneration set to benefit Northampton residents
  7. Groundworks begin to deliver new Overstone Park Primary School
  8. Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy comes to West Northants this half term
  9. Rising sports stars urged to apply for talent scheme fronted by Olympians and Paralympians
  10. Young debaters impress at Chairman’s Debating Competition

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What happens when you apply to become a firefighter in Northamptonshire?
October 05, 2025
What happens when you apply to become a firefighter in Northamptonshire?
If you have ever wanted to be a firefighter, then now is the time to give it a go. Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service is currently looking for new wholetime firefighters, with the deadline to apply closing at 10am on Monday October 13. So what happens once you click that apply button? We want to make it clear, so you all know what to expect. Once the deadline closes, our HR teams will come up with a shortlist of people who best meet the criteria we are looking for. They will then be invited to attend a Recruitment Day in the middle of November. This is where you will take part in a one-hour group exercise, a 45-minute written assessment and will be tested on your fitness skills. Our assessors will judge your leadership capabilities, but also how you work within a team – both of which are vital skills you will use every day as a firefighter. Those who successfully pass the recruitment day will then have a go at our Job-Related Tests. These are designed to test your basic skills in some of the day-to-day activities firefighters carry out, such as running a hose, climbing a ladder and dragging a dummy casualty to safety. You can prepare and find out more by clicking here. [embedded content] Remaining candidates will then undergo a short assessment to test your confidence in and around water. Firefighters may have to rescue people from the water if they have gone open water swimming. Flooding is also a growing risk across the county – so it’s important for recruits to feel confident and safe around the water. Support will be on hand in advance of this task, and the assessment will be carried out in a controlled and supervised environment. The final candidates will then be invited into Fire HQ at the end of January, where they will be interviewed and give a presentation on areas such as effective communication, working with others and showcasing a commitment to diversity and integrity. They will also undertake a ‘safe and well’ exercise, which will test their ability to showcase good communication, empathy, active listening and a passion to help people. Our assessors will then make the final decision on who to make conditional offers to. Prior to any offer of employment, the Fire Service will carry out DBS and employment checks. Once you have passed a final fitness test and medical, you will be formally offered your role, fitted for your uniform, and can start to look forward to the beginning of your firefighter journey in May 2026. Area Manager Mick Berry said: “We know this is a challenging recruitment process to go through, but we recruit people from many different backgrounds who have never been exposed to the demands of a firefighter role before. “A shared passion in those who want to join us is a desire to serve and protect their local communities, so we hope to be able to choose from a diverse pool of talent from across the county so that are truly representative of the communities that we serve.” So, let us know if you fancy the challenge. You can apply to join Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service as a wholetime firefighter by clicking here .
Message of condolence following today's attack in Manchester
October 02, 2025
Message of condolence following today's attack in Manchester
02 October 2025 On behalf of West Northamptonshire Council and the communities we represent, I offer our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives in the attack this morning outside Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester. Our thoughts are also with those who remain in critical condition, and with all those affected by this senseless act of violence. That this atrocity occurred on Yom Kippur – the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar – makes it all the more heartbreaking. It was not only an attack on innocent lives, but on the values of reflection, compassion, and peace that this day embodies. We stand in unwavering solidarity with the Jewish community in both Manchester and closer to home. At a time when many feel vulnerable, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that people of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs feel safe, respected, and supported. I would also like to express our gratitude to the emergency services and first responders for their swift and courageous actions, which undoubtedly prevented further loss of life. West Northamptonshire joins the nation in mourning. As a Council, we remain steadfast in our efforts to foster understanding, unity, and resilience – values that must guide us through moments of darkness and help us build a future rooted in mutual respect and shared humanity. Cllr Mark Arnull Leader, West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Water training sessions help fire crews hone response to widescale flooding
October 03, 2025
Water training sessions help fire crews hone response to widescale flooding
Over eight days in September, crews from Mereway, Wellingborough and Corby have been training together to ensure Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has a joined-up approach to tackling largescale flooding. As we head into autumn, the risk of flooding across the county increases, so we need to ensure we are best prepared to be able to respond to any potential incidents where there may be a risk to life. For many years now, our water rescue crews in Mereway and Wellingborough have been fully trained to be able to carry out rescues in fast moving water. Crews at Corby have now also come on board to strengthen this capability and have been given PPE to carry out their new roles. The Corby crew had only previously been able to enter the water to set up our High-Volume Pump, which is based at the station and is deployed both locally and nationally to pump out large volumes of water. More than 80 firefighters attended training sessions at Hollowell Reservoir across September to understand the capabilities, equipment and PPE that other stations had. Crew Manager Tony Labrum (pictured left below) is a technical rescue trainer for the Service and was overseeing the exercises along with Watch Manager Casey Waldock. Tony said: “The training we’ve done has allowed everyone to come together and understand where they all fit into a joint response. “It also gave our Corby crews a chance to understand the hazards and risk of a flooded environment, and for them to teach our crews in Mereway and Wellingborough about the capabilities of the High-Volume Pump and how they operate it. “I would like to thank Anglian Water and the Hollowell Sailing Club for their generosity in allowing us to use their facilities for these training exercises. “We know that flooding is a growing risk for us here in Northamptonshire, so it’s vital that our crews maintain their skills so they can ensure the safety of residents across the county.”
Desborough crew to temporarily relocate to Rothwell during roof replacement works
October 03, 2025
Desborough crew to temporarily relocate to Rothwell during roof replacement works
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s on-call response from Desborough will be temporarily relocated to Rothwell Fire Station while Desborough is closed for essential work. The station in King Street, which was built in 1975, needs a roof replacement costing more than £30,000 due to deterioration over many years. Scaffolding is being put up at the Station this week ahead of the start date for the work on Monday (October 6) and is expected to take no longer than four weeks to complete. The fire engine from Desborough is being relocated to Rothwell during this time, and the on-call crew will continue to respond to incidents in the local area when alerted. Mick Berry, who is the Area Manager for Response at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We understand that local communities, particularly in our villages, want to see their fire crews on location to respond to incidents. “We want to reassure residents in the area that both the on-call crews of Desborough and Rothwell will be able to respond to incidents as usual and keep their local communities safe. “The roof replacement is very important and unfortunately cannot be completed safely while there are staff in the building. This is why we have plans in place to relocate the crew and ensure that the area is sufficiently protected as usual. “This is an important investment of more than £30,000 to ensure the Desborough station is fit for purpose. It also demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that our firefighters – both wholetime and on-call – have the best buildings possible in which to carry out their work.”
Have your say in the national Survey of Adult Carers
October 02, 2025
Have your say in the national Survey of Adult Carers
02 October 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is inviting adult cares across the area to take part in the national 2025-2026 Survey of Adult Carers in England, on behalf of NHS England. The survey runs from 1 October to 30 November 2025. Initial questionnaires will be posted from 1 October, with reminder letters going out on 1 November to those who haven’t yet replied. This important survey asks people about the services they and the people they care for receive, and about their own quality of life. The survey updates NHS England and the Council on carers’ lives, the issues they face, the things they’re happy with and the things they’d like to see improved. It also Provides the data the NHS and West Northamptonshire Council need to plan services and future needs, and for national reports. Creates transparency and accountability, enabling people to make informed choices about their care Supports policy and decision-making at local and national level to improve care, services and outcomes for local populations and to help carers. Helps measure how well care and support services achieve the outcomes that matter most to people. Last year, 612 surveys were sent out, with 276 responses received. In total, 180 respondents made 438 comments – all of which are feeding directly into service planning and improvements. Feedback from carers has already led to real change locally: One-Stop Shops in every local area now provide information, signposting, support and carer assessments in one place. The carers guide has been developed to provide carers with one guide that highlights local support services. Carers helped co-design West Northamptonshire’s new Unpaid Carer Strategy and the key priorities approved by Cabinet in July 2024. Taking part in the survey ensures your experiences continue to shape policy, service planning and investment – from training on specific conditions to carer passports and emergency plans currently in development. All responses are confidential and anonymised. Completing the survey will not affect the services you or the person you care for receive. Please return your completed survey using the pre-paid envelope by 30 November 2025. If you need the questionnaire in a different language, larger print, or would like help filling it in, please contact West Northamptonshire Adult Social Services via email at [email protected] or call 0300 126 7000 (option 1, option 3, option 1). You can also read more on the NHS SACE page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Free stop smoking support available this October
October 01, 2025
Free stop smoking support available this October
01 October 2025 Smokers across West Northamptonshire are being encouraged to take part in Stoptober 2025, the national campaign that helps thousands of people change their lives by quitting each year. With the positive message “Let’s quit smoking together,” residents can access free local support to make this October the month they stop for good. The West Northants Stop Smoking Service offers free, confidential support to anyone ready to quit, including a 12-week programme of telephone or face-to-face sessions, e-cigarette guidance, and free nicotine replacement therapy delivered to your door. “Like many young people, I started smoking as a teenager due to peer pressure and a lack of awareness about the health risks. In 2002, as I moved my focus into healthcare roles, I made a conscious decision to stop, finishing my last packet and never buying another. “Not only did my health improve, but the financial savings were significant. Quitting meant I could redirect that money to more positive things. Anyone who quits smoking can experience huge benefits not only to your financial health but more importantly, to your physical health. “A year after quitting, I tried a cigarette felt extremely unwell the next morning. That was the moment I knew I’d never go back. Quitting smoking was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for my health and my wallet.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Adult Services “Contacting the stop smoking service was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. After smoking since my teens, I’ve finally quit at 45. I feel better physically and mentally, and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. My advisor, was incredibly supportive and knowledgeable throughout the programme. I’m so grateful for the help I received.” Elizabeth a Northampton resident who successfully quit smoking this year This Stoptober, residents who sign up to the Stop Smoking Service will be entered into a prize draw to win two tickets to a Northampton Town Football Club home game. Joining is simple. Just register with the Stop Smoking Service, make your pledge to quit, and you’ll receive free support from trained advisers. You’ll then be entered into the prize draw. The competition runs from 17 September to 28 October 2025, with tickets kindly provided by Northampton Town Football Club. Click here to find out more about the competition. Quitting smoking for 28 days makes you five times more likely to quit for good. With the average smoker saving around £2,000 a year, there’s never been a better time to stop. For more information or to sign up, visit www.westnorthants.gov.uk/stopsmoking or call 0300 126 5700. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Residents invited to celebrate the opening of Castle Park in Northampton
October 01, 2025
Residents invited to celebrate the opening of Castle Park in Northampton
01 October 2025 Residents are invited to join West Northamptonshire Council for the official opening of Castle Park, a new play and community space inspired by Northampton’s rich heritage. The celebration will take place on Saturday 18 October 2025, from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Castle Park, Chalk Lane, Northampton. The event will begin with an opening speech and ribbon cutting at 10:30am, led by the Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, the Chairman for West Northamptonshire, Councillor James Petter, Deputy Leader of the Council and the Mayor of Northampton. A variety of free activities will be available throughout the day, including arts and crafts, face painting, glitter tattoos, music, sports, and heritage exhibitions. Local organisations including The Life Centre, Salvation Army, Castle Hill URC, and The Spring Charity will be offering refreshments, creative workshops, and family-friendly entertainment. Castle Park has been developed as part of a wider initiative to enhance public spaces and connect communities with local history. The project has been funded through a combination of the Government’s Towns Fund, Section 106 allocations from developers and Council investment. The park features heritage poles with storytelling panels and interactive elements that reflect the site’s historical significance, including its links to Northampton Castle. We will also be showcasing the impressive Mural along St Andrew’s Road for which the council received funding from the Arts Council. Castle Park is a celebration of our local heritage, and a space designed for everyone to enjoy. As a key gateway from the train station, this park will elevate the arrival experience into Northampton, offering a vibrant and welcoming first impression of our town. This project brings together history, creativity and community spirit, and I’m proud to see it come to life. We look forward to welcoming residents to the opening and seeing families enjoy this park for years to come. Councillor James Petter Castle Park is part of West Northamptonshire Council’s ongoing commitment to revitalising public spaces, promoting wellbeing, and celebrating the unique identity of the area. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Pregnant women eligible for flu vaccines this season 
September 30, 2025
Pregnant women eligible for flu vaccines this season 
30 September 2025 Pregnant women across West Northamptonshire are being encouraged to consider the free flu vaccine this autumn, as part of making informed decisions about their health and the health of their unborn babies. During pregnancy, the immune system naturally changes, which can make expectant mothers and their babies more vulnerable to complications from flu, including pneumonia, which can affect the growth of the baby leading to low birth weight. Pregnant women have a higher risk of hospital admission with flu over the general population. Last year, 64% of pregnant women in West Northamptonshire did not receive the flu vaccine, leaving many at increased risk of catching seasonal flu. This year, West Northamptonshire Council’s Public Health team are encouraging all pregnant women to speak with their midwife or GP to discuss the benefits and ask any questions they may have about the flu vaccine. With respiratory infections already on the rise and colder weather leading to more indoor gatherings, the risk of flu spreading is increasing. Vaccination remains one of the best ways to help protect mothers and their baby. The vaccinated mother transfers antibodies through their placenta and breast milk and provides immunity to the infant. Therefore, maternal vaccination is the best way to protect newborns who cannot yet be vaccinated. We want every pregnant woman to feel empowered to make the best choices for themselves and their baby. Our role is to provide clear information and support, so expectant mothers can have open conversations with their healthcare professionals and make well informed decisions about the flu vaccine. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Public Health at West Northants Council Every pregnancy is unique, and so are the questions women may have about vaccination. We’re here to listen and provide guidance, so women feel confident in their choices. If you’re unsure about the flu vaccine, please reach out to your midwife. We also have a team of vaccination nurses in maternity who are here to help you make the decision that’s right for you and your baby. Clare Flower, Head of Midwifery, Northampton General Hospital Pregnant women are also encouraged to take up opportunities to protect themselves and their babies via other recommended vaccination programmes during pregnancy, such as for Whooping Cough (Pertussis) and RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) For more information, visit the West Northamptonshire Council Immunisation page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Sixth Form schools invited to register for Chairman’s Debating Competition 2026
September 26, 2025
Sixth Form schools invited to register for Chairman’s Debating Competition 2026
26 September 2025 Sixth Form schools across West Northamptonshire are being invited to put forward teams for the 2026 Chairman’s Debating Competition, a chance for young people to showcase their skills, challenge ideas, and build confidence in front of a live audience. Now a much-anticipated annual event, the competition brings together Sixth Form teams from schools and colleges across the area. Previous years have seen strong performances from Magdalen College School, Northampton Academy, Northampton International Academy, Northampton College and The Duston School, with students impressing audiences and judges alike with their quick thinking and powerful arguments. The event is expertly supported by Debate Mate, who run skill-building workshops ahead of the competition and provide professional judges on the day. I’m thrilled to invite our Sixth Form schools to take part again in next year’s debating competition. The competition is always inspiring, it’s wonderful to see young people think on their feet, listen to each other, and present their ideas with confidence. This isn’t just about debating on the day; it’s about helping students discover their voice, grow in self-belief, and develop skills that will stay with them for life. Cllr Alison Eastwood, Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council The competition will take place in February 2026, following a skills webinar in January. Schools are invited to register their teams by emailing [email protected] before Friday 19 December 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Highest civic honour awarded to former councillors for outstanding service
September 26, 2025
Highest civic honour awarded to former councillors for outstanding service
26 September 2025 At last night’s Full Council meeting, West Northamptonshire Council awarded the prestigious title of Honorary Alderman to a group of former councillors, recognising their exceptional service and dedication to both the Council and the communities they have represented over many years. The title of Honorary Alderman is the highest civic honour that can be offered to a former councillor. It is a non-political award, presented in recognition of individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact through their work in public service. The recipients are: Ann Addison JP – Represented Kislingbury and later Harpole and Grange wards. Former Leader of South Northamptonshire Council and first Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council, Ann played a major role in shaping local planning policy and raising the profile of the new authority. She continues to serve as Clerk to Milton Malsor Parish Council and is active in schools and community justice education. Dermot Bambridge – Served the Silverstone ward for over 20 years, supporting the village’s growth and regeneration of Silverstone Circuit and business park. He led environmental and economic development portfolios and chaired the Moat Lane project in Towcester, transforming the town centre. Sally Beardsworth – Longstanding councillor for Kingsthorpe, Sally served as Mayor of Northampton and Leader of the Liberal Democrat group. She was a strong voice for housing and community services, championing residents across Northampton over three decades. Alan Chantler – Represented Yelvertoft and wider Daventry district, Alan was known for his deep understanding of rural life. He served on planning and licensing committees and worked as Disability and Heritage Champion, ensuring small communities were heard. Nazim Choudary – Represented St David’s ward in Northampton and later served on West Northamptonshire Council. As the youngest ever Mayor of Northampton, Naz worked closely with diverse communities across Northampton East, promoting inclusion and engagement. Mary Clarke – Served across South Northamptonshire Council, including as Council Leader, where she pioneered joint working with Cherwell District Council, saving millions while protecting services. She played a major role in housing and regeneration and later chaired SEMLEP’s European funding committee, driving local economic growth. Gareth Eales – Represented Dallington Spencer ward in Northampton, serving as Mayor of Northampton and Leader of the Labour Group. Gareth is recognised for his tireless advocacy for Northampton and his role in campaigns to protect local government services. André González De Savage – Represented East Hunsbury, serving as Cabinet Member for public protection, fire, broadband, and highways. Later Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council, André was instrumental in establishing Wootton Park School and remains active in tourism and emergency service charities. Andrew Grant – Served in Towcester and later Hackleton and Grange Park wards. He held leadership roles at South Northamptonshire Council and chaired WNC’s Children, Housing and Education Scrutiny Committee, shaping regeneration and transformation projects in Towcester. Alan Hills – Represented Hill ward in Daventry for almost 20 years. A former Mayor of Daventry and portfolio holder for Culture and Leisure, Alan championed community sport, founding the Daventry District Sports Awards, and remains active in community groups. David James – Represented Abbey North and later Daventry East, leading on regeneration projects including Mulberry Place, Catesby Tunnel, and the A45 link road. His work brought new leisure, health, and infrastructure improvements to Daventry. Anna King – Represented Duston West and St Crispin wards, and earlier Phippsville. Anna held roles in community engagement, supporting diversity, youth, and cultural events including Northampton Pride, the Diwali Festival, and Inspirational Women’s Awards. Jamie Lane – Represented Boothville and Parklands, previously Ecton Brook and Boothville. A former Mayor of Northampton, Jamie chaired Scrutiny and Planning and worked closely with resident associations to strengthen local community voice. Wendy Randall – Represented Daventry East and earlier wards on Daventry District Council. Former Labour Group Leader, Wendy campaigned for ambulance stations, open spaces, and local facilities, while serving as Daventry Mayor and trustee of community centres. Brian Sargeant – Represented Sixfields, previously Upton, and served as Northampton’s last Borough Mayor. He played key roles in scrutiny reviews and licensing, while also supporting local food banks and long-standing educational charities. John Shephard – Represented Boughton ward and surrounding villages for over 40 years. A former Leader of Daventry District Council and later Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council, John championed planning, finance, and civic life, introducing schools’ debating competitions and cultural initiatives. Winston Strachan – Represented Castle ward and previously Billing and St Crispin. Winston held senior scrutiny roles at the County Council, worked with youth services and transport, and built strong community relations across Northampton’s diverse communities. John Townsend – Represented South Northamptonshire from 1984–2021, chairing Planning and Cabinet. He helped secure The Forum offices in Towcester and led design policies that protected the character of new developments in Towcester and Brackley. “These extraordinary individuals have dedicated their lives to serving our community with unwavering passion and dedication. Their contributions have touched the lives of countless residents, leaving an enduring legacy of service and compassion. We are privileged to honour their remarkable achievements and celebrate their impact on our community.” Cllr Alison Eastwood, Chairman of West Northamptonshire Council For the full biographies of each new Honorary Alderman, please visit the biographies page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
One Stop Shop opens at One Angel Square
September 25, 2025
One Stop Shop opens at One Angel Square
25 September 2025 From today, Thursday 25 September, West Northamptonshire Council’s Customer Services One Stop Shop has officially opened its doors at One Angel Square, Northampton, giving residents a modern and welcoming new place to access help and advice. The move from the Guildhall marks an important step in bringing council services and local support partners together under one roof, making it quicker and easier for people to get what they need in a single visit. The One Stop Shop is now based at the St John’s Street entrance of One Angel Square, just a short walk from Northampton’s bus station and town centre amenities. Alongside WNC teams such as Housing Options, Wellbeing, and Adult Social Care, the new hub also hosts a range of trusted local partners, including Citizens Advice, Community Law Service, Jobcentre Plus, Migrant Help, NDAS, and Northampton Town FC Community Trust. Together, they provide support on issues ranging from housing and benefits to legal advice, health checks, domestic abuse support, and employability skills. This change is part of the Council’s wider work to use public buildings more efficiently and improve the way services are delivered. The new One Stop Shop at One Angel Square will be offering a more accessible environment, with modern self-serve areas whilst offering joined-up support from council and community partners. The new space was designed to give customers a better experience, whether they're popping in to ask about council tax, looking for housing support, or speaking to someone about benefits, health, or general advice. “I’m delighted to welcome residents to our new One Stop Shop at One Angel Square. This move is about making life easier for people, a single, accessible place where you can come in, talk to the right people, and leave with the support and advice you need. By creating a modern, welcoming space and bringing services together, we’re not only improving the experience for residents but also making better use of council buildings so we can continue investing in frontline services.” Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate and Regulatory Services Residents can still access many council services online 24/7, and drop-in sessions continue to run across West Northamptonshire for those who prefer local support. Details of all these options are available on the Monthly drop-in sessions page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Residents invited to try the latest health tech at Weston Favell Library
September 25, 2025
Residents invited to try the latest health tech at Weston Favell Library
25 September 2025 Residents across Northamptonshire are invited to a free Health Tech event at Weston Favell Library on Wednesday, 22 October from 10 am – 3pm as part of Good Things Foundation’s national Get Online Week. The event organised by Northamptonshire Libraries and Digital Northants will give people the chance to try out the latest innovations designed to support health, wellbeing and independent living. From virtual reality sessions and smart glasses for people with visual impairments, through to carers’ support tools, balance-testing AI, esports and new adult care services, visitors will be able to see first-hand how technology is already helping people across our communities. Highlights include Dr Mu Mu from the University of Northampton, who will show how virtual reality can be used to improve wellbeing and mental health, and dbfb Communications who, in partnership with Iris IoT and Genus Care, will showcase assisted living technology and a pioneering Human Balance Sport and Wellbeing project where AI can test balance and suggest corrective exercises. Northamptonshire Carers Association will demonstrate BridgitCare, an AI-powered carers’ assessment and support planning tool, while Dr Lucy Zhu from the University of Northampton will explore how esports can help people build connections and improve mental health. Mavis Technologies will show how smart glasses are transforming accessibility for people with visual impairments, and Beam will introduce Magic Notes, an AI assessment tool that is already transforming how social workers record and share their work. Alongside businesses and local innovators, West Northamptonshire Council’s Adult Social Care and Innovation teams will be showcasing new tools such as Rose, an AI digital assistant available via WhatsApp to provide quick advice and support. The event is also a chance for residents to give feedback on these new ideas and help shape how they could be used more widely in the future. Library staff will also be on hand to help people make the most of the library’s own digital services, which are free to access for all members. “This event is about opening doors to what’s possible for everyone in our community. Technology is advancing rapidly, but it should empower us all, regardless of age, background, or experience. Whether you’re a carer, someone interested in improving your health and wellbeing, or simply curious about the latest innovations, you’ll find something valuable here. This is your opportunity to try out new tools, ask questions, and see first-hand how digital solutions can make daily life easier and more connected. Your feedback is important in shaping how these services evolve to meet local needs. I encourage all residents to join us, discover what’s on offer, and help us build a healthier, more inclusive future together.” Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate, and Regulatory Services Parking is free for three hours with options to extend your stay. The event is open to everyone, and no booking is required. To find out more visit Digital Northants website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
New Carers Guide launches to support thousands across Northamptonshire
September 24, 2025
New Carers Guide launches to support thousands across Northamptonshire
24 September 2025 A brand-new Carers Guide has officially launched, offering vital information, support, and resources for unpaid carers across Northamptonshire. Developed in partnership with North Northamptonshire Council, West Northamptonshire Council, and the Integrated Care Board (ICB), and delivered by Northamptonshire Carers, the guide is a direct response to what carers said they needed most. Funded by the Accelerating Reform Fund, the guide was a Year 1 priority for both councils and the second most requested resource by the public, following the successful rollout of One Stop Shops. It reflects a shared commitment to improving support for carers and was co-produced with carers themselves to ensure it truly meets their needs. The guide is now live and available in multiple accessible formats, including: It is available in seven languages with the ability to be translated into others, and includes plain text for screen readers, ensuring accessibility for all. People are encouraged to share the guide widely to ensure it reaches every carer who may benefit. “This guide will provide an invaluable resource for carers in Northamptonshire. For the first time, we have a single, central resource that brings together the information and support carers need, clearly, accessibly, and in one place. It’s a direct result of listening to carers and acting on what they told us. We hope it makes a real difference in helping carers feel more informed, supported, and connected.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council “Whilst caring for a friend or loved one can be hugely rewarding, it can also bring with it a number of challenges. When you’re a carer, it can feel overwhelming and it’s easy to neglect your own health and wellbeing. This new guide provides all the information a carer needs to navigate these challenges and ensure they are fully supported every step of the way.” David Watts, Executive Director of Adults, Health Partnerships and Housing for North Northamptonshire Council “We are really proud to be able to launch this Guide for Carers with our partners. Carers are a vital part of our communities with their support and care of loved ones, and we hope this guide helps them to access the support they need and deserve.” Mark Major, Chief Executive Officer of Northamptonshire Carers Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Ice rink to bring festive magic to West Northants this Christmas
September 23, 2025
Ice rink to bring festive magic to West Northants this Christmas
23 September 2025 A brand-new covered real ice rink is set to bring festive sparkle to Northampton this winter, as plans are announced for a 14m x 22m rink in the town centre. The rink will be open from Thursday 4 December 2025 through to Sunday 4 January 2026 (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day), offering residents and visitors the chance to enjoy an unforgettable winter experience whatever the weather. The attraction will feature family-friendly and corporate ticket packages, possible themed DJ sessions, lessons and early-bird offers, with more details set to be confirmed soon. A licensed bar and supplementary festive activities will run alongside the rink to create a vibrant seasonal hub. Festive events will include: Christmas Lights Switch On, taking place on Saturday 22 November in the Market Square delivered by Northampton Town Council Small Business Saturday on Saturday 6 December, the dedicated national day to support local businesses, with a town-wide Grinch takeover led by Northampton BID “Carols on the Square” on Friday 13 December, with a local choir and singers Additional activities, including a festive grotto and further entertainment, soon to be announced as plans develop. The largescale ice rink is being delivered by West Northamptonshire Council in partnership with Northampton Town Council, Northampton BID and Discover Northamptonshire. Sponsorship opportunities are also open for local businesses keen to support and benefit from the event. Please email [email protected] for further information. "This is such an exciting addition to Northampton’s festive calendar. The ice rink will not only provide fun for families and visitors of all ages but will also give a real boost to our local economy, attracting people into the town centre to enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment. By working together with our partners, we’re creating a festive offer that really showcases the best of Northampton and supports our ambitions through Discover Northamptonshire to put the county on the map as a must-visit destination." Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure “Northampton Town Council is delighted to support the winter ice rink, which will give residents and visitors the chance to enjoy a wonderful festive experience in the heart of the town centre. “We begin the countdown to Christmas in Northampton on the 22nd November with the lights switch on and we’re excited to be working with West Northants Council and the Northampton Town BID to make this festive season the best yet.” Cllr Keith Holland-Delamere, Chair of the Community Services Committee Santa’s Grotto in the Grosvenor Centre will launch on Saturday 22 November, then open at weekends throughout December. Delivered by Northampton BID, supported by Northampton Town Council. The Northampton BID Golden Ticket giveaway, giving entrants the chance to win vouchers to spend in Northampton, will launch at the Fireworks event on November 1 and will run throughout November until 14 December. A dedicated Christmas radio station will run throughout December. Delivered by NLive Radio and supported by Northampton BID. “With the summer events season drawing to a conclusion, it’s now all systems go as we gear up for a cracker of a Christmas in our town centre. With Santa’s Grotto in the Grosvenor Centre, our ever-popular Golden Ticket giveaway and the addition of an impressive new ice rink in Market Square, we’d urge shoppers to get their skates on and put Northampton at the centre of their Christmas shopping experience this year.” Mark Mullen, operations manager at Northampton BID Full ticketing details, special offers and event information will be announced in the coming weeks, including early bird offers. Stay updated by following WNC's Facebook account . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Nominate your 2025 West Northants male role models
September 24, 2025
Nominate your 2025 West Northants male role models
24 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council are excited to announce that nominations are officially open for the 2025 Male Role Model Awards to celebrate local men and boys who have positively impacted our community. These awards are set out to raise awareness around men’s wellbeing and to shine a spotlight on acts of kindness, those that inspire others and have a positive impact on the lives of people in their communities or workplace. The Council are encouraging people to nominate an inspirational man or boy living in West Northamptonshire, who has made a meaningful difference either to them, our local community or in the workplace whether it be as a mentor, volunteer, leader or practical support. Nominations opened this week and are set to close on Sunday 26 October 2025. The finalists will be celebrated at an awards ceremony on Wednesday 19 November, coinciding with International Men's Day 2025. "As I humbly reflect on being recognised as WN Role Model of the Year 2024, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. This honour acknowledges the efforts of so many inspirational men in our community and highlights the importance of community service and the impact we can have as individuals. “Now it is time to shine the spotlight on an outstanding individual who has been making waves in our community through his tireless work and dedication. Winston Churchill once said... ‘we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give’. “I’m honoured to have been invited to be a part of the judging panel and we will be looking for a man who is selfless and wholeheartedly committed to empowering others - somebody that has demonstrated an altruistic quality and inspired the people who are familiar with his charitable and community based work. So I encourage the public to nominate like-minded individuals who have made a positive impact in West Northants. The unsung heroes and the compassionate souls. If you know someone that deserves this recognition, please don’t leave it to chance. Nominate them now!” Quinton, Winner of the 2024 Role Model of the Year Award for West Northants “Our Male Role Model awards offer an opportunity to recognise the men and boys who have made a positive impact across our communities—whether through kindness, encouragement or by inspiring others. It’s a chance to celebrate those who go the extra mile, whilst putting a spotlight on the importance of men’s health and wellbeing. “I encourage residents to nominate someone who has made a real difference. We’re excited to hear the uplifting stories from across West Northants and to shine a light on the individuals who help make our communities stronger.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities To submit a nomination please visit the form here . Please note all individuals nominated must be living or working in West Northamptonshire Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Celebrating local tourism - Northamptonshire Tourism Awards now open for entries
September 22, 2025
Celebrating local tourism - Northamptonshire Tourism Awards now open for entries
22 September 2025 Discover Northamptonshire, the county’s official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), has today launched the Northamptonshire Tourism Awards 2025 - inviting businesses from across the county to showcase their achievements and innovation. The launch of the awards follows on from the major success and economic boost to the visitor economy for Northamptonshire as a result of hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup. With 13 award categories ranging from ‘large hotel of the year’ to ‘small visitor attraction’ and ‘pub of the year’, there’s plenty of opportunities for tourism and hospitality businesses to get involved. The awards focus on celebrating businesses and attractions that pull in visitors far and wide, recognising the hard work by all to maximise visitor experience. Applications are now open and must be submitted by 14 November and finalists will be revealed early in the New Year. “We’re proud to champion Northamptonshire’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sector, which plays a vital role in shaping the county’s identity and economy. These awards not only celebrate business excellence but also recognise the wider social impact these organisations have - bringing communities together, enhancing wellbeing, and fostering local pride. We’re also incredibly grateful to the partners and sponsors who will help make these awards possible and ensure the county’s visitor economy continues to shine.” Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire LVEP “Northamptonshire is rich with cultural and natural treasures and is full of exceptional tourism businesses from village pubs through to larger attractions. It’s only right that we shine a light on these businesses and the Northamptonshire Tourism Awards will do just that with the winners in each category being automatically qualifying for the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. “I would encourage all to take a look at the information online and apply - I am so looking forward to hearing more about the fantastic businesses we have in the local area.” Kerry Purnell, North Northamptonshire Council’s assistant director for communities and leisure “Northamptonshire has so much to celebrate, and showcasing our local businesses on a national stage is exactly the kind of impact the LVEP was created to deliver. We are fully committed to maximising the potential of our visitor economy and enhancing the experience for everyone who comes here - because we know Northamptonshire has what it takes to be recognised as a world-class destination. “Building on the incredible spotlight the Women’s Rugby World Cup has shone on our area, these new awards are a fantastic opportunity to highlight the businesses and attractions that make our county stand out. I encourage every business and organisation to get involved and help us celebrate the innovation, passion and dedication that continue to put Northamptonshire firmly on the map.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council Once applications close, the first round of judging will commence and shortlisted businesses will then be visited by mystery shoppers at the end of November through to mid-December. Finalists will be announced in early January with an awards event being organised in March 2026, to tie in with English Tourism Week. More details to be announced soon. Winners in each of the 13 categories will automatically qualify for the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, the national benchmark for tourism success. These awards shine a spotlight on the very best of England’s tourism industry - recognising outstanding achievements in quality, innovation, and customer service. Winning one of these coveted awards not only confirms a business as a national leader, but also opens doors to valuable media coverage, enhanced business development, and exclusive networking opportunities. Full details on categories, entry criteria, deadlines and how to apply, visit the Discover Northamptonshire website . Stay updated by following Discover Northamptonshire on LinkedIn and join the conversation using #DNTA26. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Booking system coming soon for Household Waste Recycling Centres in West Northants
September 22, 2025
Booking system coming soon for Household Waste Recycling Centres in West Northants
22 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is introducing a new booking system for its six Household Waste and Recycling Centres (HWRCs) to help reduce queues, ease pressure on surrounding roads, and ensure a smoother experience for local residents. The new booking system will commence on Monday, 3 November. Residents will be able to start booking slots from Monday, 20 October. This will apply to all HWRCs across the area, which now benefit from a seven-day opening as part of wider service improvements following a new contract with FCC Environment that started in April of this year. Only those who live in West Northamptonshire will be able to access the sites. Bookings can be made quickly and easily online via our website 24/7. Those unable to access the website, can book by calling the Council on 0300 126 7000 . Bookings can be made up to 2 weeks in advance or on the day at least 30 minutes before arrival, and it is simple to do so online. Trade customers and those will live outside the area will have the option to pay to use the service, but this cannot be done through the booking system. More information on this is available on the Council’s website. The introduction of this new system will: P revent long queues, especially during busy periods like bank holidays Reduce disruption to nearby homes, businesses and highways Ensure fair access for West Northamptonshire residents "We know that the introduction of this new system may take some residents time to get used to but it is designed to make visits to our recycling centres a more pleasant and efficient experience. “We’ve listened to feedback from people about the access to sites and queues and by managing demand and making sure that those using the facilities live in West Northamptonshire, we can reduce traffic, improve safety, and ensure our sites are used fairly and responsibly. “We want to encourage as many people as possible to recycle their waste and dispose of it properly, and with many other local authorities across the country already using or introducing booking systems, we’re confident that this will be benefit residents accessing these services.” Cllr Nigel Stansfield, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste Members of the public do not need to book a slot to visit or donate to the re-use shops at Sixfields and Farthinghoe HWRCs. For more information, visit our HWRCs booking webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Residents invited to help shape the future of Northampton Museum & Art Gallery
September 19, 2025
Residents invited to help shape the future of Northampton Museum & Art Gallery
19 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is inviting residents, community groups, and visitors to have their say on the future of Northampton Museum & Art Gallery as part of an exciting new potential development. Feedback gathered through a public survey will form a vital part of a bid of up to £10 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. If successful, the funding will help the museum to reimagine how its world-class collections and unique stories are shared, celebrated, and preserved for future generations. The survey asks participants to share their views on how West Northamptonshire’s history, art, and identity can be better reflected in the museum - from its world-famous shoe and leathercraft collection to local stories, the natural world, and beyond. We want to explore new ways of sharing West Northamptonshire’s history and identity. From world-famous shoes and leathercraft to local stories - including our Histories of Northamptonshire exhibition, the museum holds collections that deserve to be celebrated and experienced. This survey is about how those stories are told, and how more people can play a part. Your views will help us make sure the museum reflects the culture of Northampton today while caring for and increasing access to its wonderful collections for the future. I encourage everyone to share their thoughts. Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure The survey is open until Monday 13 October and can be completed online or in person at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council begins early work to tackle 2026–27 budget gap
September 19, 2025
Council begins early work to tackle 2026–27 budget gap
19 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Administration has highlighted the difficult choices that will be needed as the authority works to bridge an estimated £50m shortfall in its budget for next year. The Council is currently forecasting the gap in its revenue budget for 2026-27 – the money it spends on the day-to-day running of services. In essence, the level of funding has not kept pace with our growing population and the continued rise in demand for services supporting the most vulnerable residents, such as children’s and adults social care, temporary housing for homelessness and SEND school transport. This means we have to find more efficiencies to balance our budget. Action is under way to identify more savings and efficiencies that will seek to address the shortfall, which equates to around 10% of its overall budget, so that the Council can balance the books for the next financial year. Like all councils across the country, WNC continues to face significant financial pressures annually and has already found £115m of savings since its creation over four years ago. When the new Administration took over in May, we could see the huge scale of financial challenges inherited and how the Council had continued to make significant savings year upon year. But we can also see that demand and costs to meet that demand escalate each year with two-thirds of our annual budget funding statutory services that protect our most vulnerable children and adults. As the Council benchmarks well in terms of its cost of delivery this makes closing next year’s budget gap even harder and possibly the most difficult to date. Tough choices lie ahead. But our top priority will always continue to be protecting essential services, wherever possible, and continuing to deliver the value for money that our residents rightfully expect. Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council We’ve started work on identifying and shaping proposals for next year’s draft budget to help us bridge the shortfall, which includes exploring further savings and efficiencies and looking at how we can be more consistent in our approach to things like fees and charges for discretionary services. There is also some uncertainty as we await the outcome of the Government’s Fair Funding consultation, which will provide greater clarity on funding and future budgets. While we are hopeful this will reflect the significant rise in our population and demand, the final position will not be known until mid-December, and we need to press on and be prudent in our approach in the meantime. We’ll leave no stone unturned in our budget work and by doing so we may need to consider proposals that not everyone will agree with, but it’s important we review every option to address these significant challenges. Cllr John Slope, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Finance We’ll be developing proposals over the coming months, with the draft 2026–27 budget due to go to Cabinet in December. Residents will then have the chance to give their views during public consultation before the final budget is agreed by Council in February. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Plans progress to convert disused site into 18 new affordable homes
September 19, 2025
Plans progress to convert disused site into 18 new affordable homes
19 September 2025 Plans to transform a disused former Care Home into 18 much-needed affordable homes have been given the go ahead by West Northamptonshire Council’s Cabinet at their meeting yesterday (18 September). The scheme, located in Ecton Brook, Northampton, will deliver a blend of 12 homes for social rent and 6 for shared ownership, helping to meet the high demand for affordable housing across the area. The project forms part of the Council’s Affordable Homes Delivery Plan , which is focused on providing more homes that people can genuinely afford. With more than 1,000 new affordable homes needed in West Northamptonshire every year, the new scheme will make an important contribution to tackling local housing pressures. Work is already underway to prepare the site, with demolition and asbestos removal funded by a £200,000 grant from the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund. Construction of the new homes is expected to begin following a procurement process later this year, with completion anticipated in Spring 2027. The development will be built to modern, sustainable standards, featuring air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points to help keep running costs down for residents while reducing environmental impact. This is a really positive step forward, making the best use of a disused site to create high-quality affordable family homes for local people. By maximising the number of social rent properties, we’re ensuring that some of the households most in need will benefit from secure, genuinely affordable housing. This is another important milestone in our mission to deliver the homes people need and can afford across West Northamptonshire. Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing at WNC The scheme will be funded through a combination of Homes England grant support and Housing Revenue Account (HRA) borrowing, with the Council also agreeing to transfer the site at a reduced land value to ensure the homes remain affordable. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council’s One Stop Shop to welcome residents at One Angel Square from 25 September
September 18, 2025
Council’s One Stop Shop to welcome residents at One Angel Square from 25 September
18 September 2025 From Thursday 25 September, West Northamptonshire Council’s customer services One Stop Shop will officially open its doors at One Angel Square, Northampton, providing residents with a modern, welcoming place to access help and advice. The move from the Guildhall marks a big step in bringing council services and local support partners together under one roof, making it quicker and easier for people to get what they need in one visit. The new location is easily accessed via the St John’s Street entrance, just a short walk from the bus station and other town centre amenities. Alongside West Northants Council teams like Housing Options, Wellbeing, and Adult Social Care, the new One Stop Shop will provide access, advice and signposting to a range of key local partners including Citizens Advice, Community Law Service, Jobcentre Plus, Migrant Help, NDAS, and Northampton Town FC Community Trust. Together, they’ll offer advice on a range of queries our residents may have including benefits support, legal support, domestic abuse help, health checks, EU Settlement Scheme support, and employability skills, all under one roof. This change is part of the Council’s wider work to use public buildings more efficiently and improve the way services are delivered. The new One Stop Shop at One Angel Square will be offering a more accessible environment, with modern self-serve areas whilst offering joined-up support from council and community partners. The new space was designed to give customers a better experience, whether they're popping in to ask about council tax, looking for housing support, or speaking to someone about benefits, health, or general advice. We’re excited to welcome residents to the new One Stop Shop from 25 September. This move is all about making life simpler, a place where you can come in, speak to the right people, and leave knowing you’ve had the help you need. By creating a more modern and accessible space, we’re not only improving the experience for residents but also using our buildings more efficiently so that we can keep investing in frontline services. Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate, and Regulatory Services Residents can still access many council services online 24/7, and drop-in sessions continue to run across West Northamptonshire for those who prefer local support. Details of all these options are available on the Monthly drop-in sessions page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Histories of Northamptonshire brings 150 million years of stories to life at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery
September 17, 2025
Histories of Northamptonshire brings 150 million years of stories to life at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery
17 September 2025 Northampton Museum & Art Gallery will unveil a landmark exhibition this autumn, A History of Northamptonshire in 100 Objects, as part of the wider Histories of Northamptonshire project. Opening on Saturday 20 September 2025 and running until 8 February 2026, the exhibition takes visitors on a fascinating journey through 150 million years of the county’s past. From prehistoric fossils to modern innovations, 100 remarkable objects have been handpicked to tell the stories of the people, industries and events that shaped Northamptonshire’s cultural, social and economic heritage. This unique exhibition has been developed with the help of 51 guest curators from across the county - including historians, collectors, and community groups – who have worked alongside the museum team to select objects and craft narratives that reflect the diverse voices of Northamptonshire. Alongside the exhibition, visitors and residents can enjoy: A 100-episode podcast series, hosted by broadcaster John Griff, uncovering the hidden stories and secrets behind each object. The Histories of Northamptonshire website, featuring an interactive timeline and opportunities for the public to contribute their own stories. The Explore Northampton app, turning phones into personal history guides with audio tours, augmented reality experiences, and trails across the county. Beyond the 100, a county-wide programme of displays in museums, libraries and community venues, linking local treasures back to the exhibition. Talks, workshops, and live demonstrations, led by guest curators and experts, giving people the chance to dive deeper into Northamptonshire’s heritage. A beautifully illustrated companion book, featuring all 100 objects with stunning photography and stories, available to buy from the museum gift shop for £9.99. “Histories of Northamptonshire is an extraordinary celebration of the stories, people and places that define our county. “By working with communities and curators from every corner of Northamptonshire, this project ensures our heritage is shared in a way that is inclusive, engaging and truly reflective of the county we call home. I’d encourage everyone to visit the museum between 20 September and 22 February 2026 to experience it for themselves.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of WNC and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure The project is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. For more information and to explore the full events programme, visit the museum website . “Northamptonshire boasts a vibrant and varied history. This new exhibition captures 100 objects handpicked by community groups, collectors and historians to tell the stories of the people, industries and events which shaped the county’s cultural, economic and social heritage. “It’s been a privilege, not only to join them in this celebration, but to have introduced the exhibition’s accompanying podcast series.” Liz Johnson, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Planning application for new Kettering fire station now live
September 18, 2025
Planning application for new Kettering fire station now live
The planning application for a brand-new fire station in Kettering is now live and, if approved, would deliver modern and fit-for-purpose facilities for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service’s firefighters. Submitted for decision to North Northamptonshire Council, the application outlines plans for a purpose-built station on Cherry Hall Road, located next to the joint Fire and Police Northern Accommodation Building and Weekley Woods Justice Centre. The planning application says that there will be a purpose-built fire station, a 203-square-metre storage building, and a four-storey fire training tower—designed to support both operational readiness and firefighter development. If permission is granted, this new facility would replace the current station on the Headlands, which has been in use since 1955. While the existing site has served the community for many years, it no longer meets the demands of modern firefighting. Access and parking challenges at the Headlands can delay emergency response, and the building itself falls short of current standards for working conditions and crew welfare. As stated on the planning submission, the new station would offer improved access to major routes, helping crews respond more quickly and efficiently. It would feature a larger bay with more space for fire engines, upgraded welfare facilities including toilets, showers and changing rooms, and eight individual dormitories to support privacy and dignity for a diverse workforce. The proposed layout has also been designed to safely manage equipment exposed to contaminants, in line with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) best practice. Located on land owned by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, the planned project reflects ongoing investment in the fire estate across Northamptonshire and is part of a wider strategy to ensure that fire service facilities across the county meet the evolving needs of the workforce and the communities they serve. While the planning application progresses, wholetime and on-call crews continue to operate from the current station as usual. The live planning application for the new Kettering fire station can be viewed on the North Northamptonshire Council planning portal under reference number: 25/00807/FUL .
Residents reminded to re-apply for postal voting arrangements
September 16, 2025
Residents reminded to re-apply for postal voting arrangements
16 September 2025 Residents across West Northamptonshire are being reminded that if they want to carry on voting by post in future elections, they may need to re-apply to keep their arrangements in place. Postal vote registrations are valid for up to three years. If you applied for a postal vote before 31 October 2023, you must re-apply by 31 January 2026 to ensure you can carry on voting by post. Anyone who applied on or after 31 October 2023 will not need to re-apply until nearer their renewal date. From September through to January 2026, the Council will be contacting residents who applied for a postal vote before 31 October 2023. These reminders will be sent by text message, email, or letter, depending on the contact details provided. It is important that residents know how to check the authenticity of these reminders. Genuine text messages and emails from the Council will clearly state that they are about postal vote re-application, and will direct residents to trusted websites such as GOV.UK or the Council’s official site: westnorthants.co.uk. Residents can re-apply online via GOV.UK, download a form, or request a paper application directly from the Council. To vote by post at an election, applications must be received by 5pm, 11 working days before polling day. "Voting by post offers a convenient way to have your say, but it’s important to remember that your registration does not last forever. We want to make sure that everyone who wants to vote by post is able to do so, which is why we are contacting residents well in advance to remind them to re-apply. If you receive a reminder text or email, please follow the guidance provided to renew your application easily and securely." Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive and Electoral Registration Officer for West Northamptonshire Council If you applied for a postal vote before 31 October 2023 and do not re-apply by 31 January 2026, your postal vote will be cancelled. You will still be able to vote in person at your local polling station. For More information visit www.westnorthants.gov.uk/postalvote. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Two new centres expand adult learning opportunities in Northamptonshire
September 15, 2025
Two new centres expand adult learning opportunities in Northamptonshire
15 September 2025 Northamptonshire Adult Learning Service (NALS) has opened two brand-new learning centres in Northampton and Towcester, expanding opportunities for adults across the county to learn, upskill and thrive. Funded through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) - delivered locally by West Northamptonshire Council, this investment will enable NALS to expand its reach and provide an even wider choice of courses for residents. The modern, town centre-based hubs feature purpose-designed classrooms and resources, providing welcoming and accessible spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds to continue their learning journey. While NALS will continue to use community venues across the county, the new centres will make it possible to run a wider range of courses, at more times of the day, giving adults greater flexibility to fit learning around busy lives. “These new centres mark an exciting step forward for adult education in West Northamptonshire and the wider county. They will provide residents with high-quality, accessible spaces to learn new skills, build confidence, and take positive steps in their personal and professional lives. Adult learning has the power to open doors and create opportunities, and I’m proud that we’re investing in resources that will support people right across our communities.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure NALS is already welcoming learners into the new centres, with immediate availability on a wide variety of courses. From brushing up on core skills like English and Maths, to learning English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), gaining Digital Skills, exploring Health & Wellbeing, or boosting Professional Development, there is something for everyone. Many courses are offered free of charge to residents, making learning more accessible than ever. Alongside new knowledge and skills, learners often find their studies bring wider benefits - from growing confidence and meeting new people, to unlocking new career opportunities. To explore the full range of courses and find out more about NALS, visit the Northamptonshire Adult Learning Service website or call 0300 303 1058. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Record-breaking day as 1,500 runners shine at Amazing Northampton Run
September 15, 2025
Record-breaking day as 1,500 runners shine at Amazing Northampton Run
15 September 2025 It was a record breaking day at yesterday's Amazing Northampton Run as almost 1,500 runners took to the town's streets. The star performer was Rugby & Northampton Athletic Club's Luke Greer, who won the half-marathon in a course record of one hour, seven minutes and seven seconds. His club colleagues, Matthew Everitt and Ned Gilford, came second and third respectively, while Katie Godof won the women's race in one hour, 22 minutes and 57 seconds. Vocal crowds of supporters filled the route, which passed town landmarks including its three sporting stadia, All Saints' Church and Abington Park. The event started and finished at the revamped Market Square, providing runners and supporters with a brilliant backdrop for their pre- and post- run selfies. Meanwhile, the three mile run was won by 12-year-old Rose Tannasee in a mind-blowing 21 minutes and 42 seconds, and Clowne Road Runners came first in the relay race. "It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying our town centre and putting in such incredible performances. "While we like to celebrate the achievements of our podium finishers and it was incredible to see Luke finish in such a fast time, we see everyone who completes one of our events as a winner. "For many people, getting to the start line is success in its own right and whether you finish in just over an hour or more than three, completing a half-marathon is a wonderful achievement." Simon Hollis, from organiser Go Beyond Challenge Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
West Northants Council to proactively target inward investment and drive innovation
September 16, 2025
West Northants Council to proactively target inward investment and drive innovation
16 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is increasing efforts to secure inward investment into the area as part of its Economic Growth Strategy, focusing on sectors that deliver cutting-edge technologies, high-value jobs, and long-term prosperity. Businesses looking to invest, expand or relocate in West Northamptonshire now have access to a powerful new resource. The Invest in West Northants website has launched a Commercial Property Search Tool , making it easier than ever to identify quality land and premises across the area. This new tool underpins the Council’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The West Northants Economic Growth Strategy sets out a bold vision for ‘a Thriving West Northants - a place of opportunity and growth for all; a must-invest destination, driving cutting-edge technologies, enabling innovation and enhancing UK plc.’ Strategically positioned in the heart of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor, West Northamptonshire is already home to more than 19,000 businesses and a growing population of over 425,000 people. To boost jobs, skills, and productivity, the Council is targeting inward investment across key growth sectors, including: Advanced Manufacturing Life Sciences Clean Energy Advanced Logistics Motorsport Creative and Digital Industries Experience Economy Foundation Economy The new Commercial Property Search Tool will further support these priority sectors by enabling businesses to: Search available office, industrial, retail, mixed-use properties, and land Filter results by location, size, and type Access detailed property information and contact agents directly Explore development opportunities on both greenfield and brownfield sites “This tool is a key enabler of our Economic Growth Strategy, helping to increase business formation, attract new investment, and support the expansion of high-value sectors. It will help unlock the area’s potential and strengthen our ambition to become the beating heart of the UK’s technology revolution “Our Inward Investment & Business Growth Team is proactively showcasing West Northamptonshire as a must-invest destination where businesses can innovate and thrive. We are committed to creating an ecosystem where every business can grow, supported by free, expert guidance. I encourage every business in West Northants - and those considering relocating here - to get in touch with the team today.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure An example of high-profile quality investment locating into West Northants, Marks & Spencer have recently announced a £340m investment at the Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal. “The investment announced by Marks & Spencer marks a significant moment for logistics in West Northamptonshire, setting new benchmarks for automation, sustainable development and long-term inclusive growth. Our partnership reflects a shared ambition to deliver economic value, skills and opportunity. “The development enables a future-fit supply chain for M&S and brings lasting economic value to West Northamptonshire through skilled jobs, resilient infrastructure and investment in one of the UK’s most important logistics locations. It's also a prime example of what’s possible when forward-thinking councils like West Northamptonshire actively enable growth and innovation. Their proactive, solutions-focused approach was instrumental in securing this major inward investment.” Paul Weston, Regional Head of Prologis UK For more information or to explore commercial opportunities, visit the Invest in West Northants website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Recruitment opens for people to apply to become wholetime firefighters in Northamptonshire
September 16, 2025
Recruitment opens for people to apply to become wholetime firefighters in Northamptonshire
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is hiring new firefighters – do you have what it takes to help keep our county safe? Being a firefighter is more than just fighting fires. New recruits will play a vital role in promoting fire safety in their local communities, carrying out prevention and protection work, and helping vulnerable residents stay safe from danger through Home Fire Safety Visits. When called to an emergency, they will respond to a whole host of incidents ranging from house fires to road traffic collisions, wildfires to animal rescues, and dealing with chemical hazards. [embedded content] The window for those looking to start a rewarding career in the Fire Service is now open, with applicants able to apply until the deadline of 10am on October 13 by clicking here . Sophia Perkins, aged 24, (pictured below) applied to become a wholetime firefighter in January 2024 after wanting to pursue a career where every day is different. After going to a ‘Have A Go’ day, she left feeling inspired that it was the right job for her. Almost two years on, Sophia has nearly finished her course to become a fully qualified firefighter at Kettering Fire Station. She said: “Firefighting is a career built on teamwork and public service where every shift brings the opportunity to safeguard lives and support people needing help. “But it’s a job that’s more than responding to emergencies — it’s about protecting and preventing harm before it happens, supporting your community in meaningful ways, and growing through the strength of your team.” She added: “To anyone wanting to join, make sure you balance your strength training with running to improve your endurance. Being physically fit is one of the main criteria for joining the Service – and it gives you huge confidence.” Successful candidates would start their journey with the Fire Service in May 2026, joining their station in the summer. From there, they will also take on a two-year qualification course that teaches them the basics of firefighting, which will give them valuable transferable skills for the rest of their careers. Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson (pictured below) said: “A modern Fire and Rescue Service responds to a huge variety of incidents, and that means no two days will be the same as a firefighter. “Northamptonshire Fire plays a critical role in keeping the county safe, actively engaging with its local communities to promote safety and prevent incidents from happening in the first place. “We’re looking for people who have the right attitude and are determined to make a difference by serving their local communities.” To become an apprentice wholetime firefighter, you must: have a full car driving licence valid for the UK be able to permanently live and work in the UK without any restrictions be aged 18 years old at the start of the training course in May 2026 Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service particularly wants to attract people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life to apply and help ensure the county’s Fire Service truly represents the people it serves. If you wish to find out more about the recruitment process, including the job description, then an information pack can be downloaded here .
West Northants shines as thousands flock to Women’s Rugby World Cup matches and Fan Zones
September 15, 2025
West Northants shines as thousands flock to Women’s Rugby World Cup matches and Fan Zones
15 September 2025 West Northamptonshire has played a starring role in this year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup, with host venue Northampton’s Franklin’s Gardens attracting thousands of spectators, and Fan Zones in Northampton Market Square drawing record-breaking crowds. More than 48,500 fans attended six matches at Franklin’s Gardens, creating a fantastic atmosphere and strong support for the tournament. The impact has also been felt beyond the stadium, seeing the town centre buzzing with activity and delivering a significant boost for the local economy. The popular Fan Zones offered residents and visitors the chance to soak up the tournament atmosphere and created a genuine festival feel right in the heart of Northampton. Along with Northampton Music Festival and Movies on the Square, these events helped bring the community together to celebrate world-class sport, music, and entertainment. This impact has been strongly reflected in footfall figures, with the Grosvenor Shopping Centre welcoming more than 120,000 people in the first week of September - the highest number outside of the busy December period for over 18 months, and a 20% rise compared with the same week last year. The tournament has also delivered a significant boost for local hospitality and businesses , with four international teams staying in West Northamptonshire, seeing hotels benefitting from long-term team stays of up to a month. Thousands of additional visitors have also been filling local hotels, booking restaurants, and supporting high street businesses, leaving a positive lasting impact on the local economy. Looking ahead, West Northamptonshire Council is preparing to build on this momentum by hosting a major celebration event in Northampton Market Square if England’s Red Roses secure their place in the final on Saturday 27 September. The event will take place from midday to 7pm and feature: Big screen showing the match live Free family friendly activities Local DJ to help create a party atmosphere Food and drink stalls Licensed bar area for fans to enjoy the game in a vibrant, festival atmosphere The celebration will provide residents and visitors with another chance to come together, cheer on England, and showcase the unique community spirit of West Northants. “The Women’s Rugby World Cup has been a real highlight for West Northamptonshire, and it has been a privilege to host such a significant sporting event. We’ve seen a positive impact across our town centres, with a welcome boost for local businesses and the wider economy. Events like this really demonstrate the value of bringing international sport to West Northants. “The success of the tournament is thanks to the fantastic volunteers and everyone who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Their dedication has ensured everything ran smoothly and helped create a real sense of community pride. We’re now looking forward to the prospect of celebrating an England final with a special event in Market Square - come on you Red Roses!” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Take a look back at some tournament highlights on the Women’s Rugby World Cup webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Put falls prevention into practice
September 15, 2025
Put falls prevention into practice
15 September 2025 Put falls prevention into practice Falls Prevention Awareness Week returns from 15–19 September 2025. The national campaign aims to empower older adults and those at risk to take proactive steps to reduce their chances of falling. Most falls are preventable, and this year’s theme aims to raise awareness of putting prevention into action. Each year about one-third of all people over age 65 will fall. The consequences can be significant, particularly for older people. However, falls are not an inevitable part of growing older and there are things you can do to help reduce the risk of falling. Sir Muir Gray, a prominent figure in UK public health, known for his work in the National Health Service (NHS) and his focus on value-based healthcare has shared his top tips on staying active in later life. Click here to view his top tips and advice to live better longer. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, at West Northants Council said: “As we age, maintaining strength, balance, and mobility becomes increasingly important, not just for wellbeing, but for maintaining our independence. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence among older adults, but they can be preventable. “Our fantastic Falls Prevention Team can help you (and your family) assess your needs, discuss your issues and work with you to remain independent at home for as long as possible. Get Up and Go classes are a fun and social way to stay active, improve balance, rebuild confidence and learn techniques to help you stay safe on your feet. I've been to one or two of these Get Up and Go classes myself and can highly recommend them. You can refer yourself to the service so they can work with you to offer personalised advice and support to help you stay steady on your feet and remain independent at home.” The West Northants Falls Management Service will be out in the community throughout the week, offering advice, support, and practical tips to help residents stay steady on their feet. Two team members will be present at each location, and home visits will also be carried out for clients on the waiting list. Come and speak to the Falls Management Service team at the following venues: Brackley Library – Tuesday 16 September, 12:30pm–3pm Towcester Library – Thursday 18 September, 12pm–4pm Moulton Community Centre – Friday 19 September, 10am–12pm These sessions offer a chance to ask questions, get personalised advice, and learn more about how to reduce your risk of falling, whether through exercise, home adaptations, or lifestyle changes. Jackie Browne, Strategic Director (Communities & Health) at Northamptonshire Sport said: “While many people believe that falling is an unavoidable part of growing older, this isn’t true. One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk is through regular strength and balance exercise. Building strength not only helps to prevent falls and reduce frailty, but it also supports mobility, confidence, independence and can even help people live longer, healthier lives. "Our Get Up & Go programme provides specialist classes for older adults across Northamptonshire. With over 80 sessions running each week and more than 1,000 participants, these classes give people the skills to stay active in sessions and at home. By making strength training a regular habit from mid-life onwards, people can stay stronger for longer and keep living life to the fullest.” The Steady On Your Feet website offers self-assessment tools, tips, and personalised action plans to help individuals stay active and independent. You can also explore Get Up & Go classes, which improve strength, balance, and confidence, and are available across West Northamptonshire. To learn more or make a referral, visit the Falls Management Service page Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Amazing Northampton Run attracts elite Kenyan athlete
September 12, 2025
Amazing Northampton Run attracts elite Kenyan athlete
12 September 2025 Spectators at this year's Amazing Northampton Run could be treated to atruly elite performance. Organisers Go Beyond Challenge have today confirmed that elite Kenyan runner, Philip Kipkemoi Kiprono, will take part in the event on Sunday 14 September 2025. Kiprono, who won the 2021 Vancouver Half-Marathon in an eye watering time of one hour, seven minutes and 43 seconds, will have an eye on the course record of one hour, 11 minutes 45 seconds - set by Rugby & Northampton Athletic Club's Ben Musgrove in 2014. His team are even hopeful he could record a time as fast as one hour, five minutes. The Amazing Northampton Run's half-marathon starts at 9.30am on Sunday, with the event also featuring a relay and a three-mile race. This year, it will be commemorating the Great Fire of Northampton which ravaged the town 350 years ago.Much of the impressive architecture in the town centre now, rose out of the ashes of that fire. “We are excited to welcome Philip to Northampton to take part in The Amazing Northampton Run. “It is a tribute to the growing attraction of our race, and of Northampton generally, that we are able to attract such a talented, international athlete. “Of course, this run is about everyone and I'll be cheering ever person home whatever their time. To complete a half-marathon is a fantastic achievement and I can't wait to see so many people take this challenge on.“ Simon Hollis, from Go Beyond Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Parents urged to ensure their children are up to date with vaccines this winter
September 11, 2025
Parents urged to ensure their children are up to date with vaccines this winter
11 September 2025 With the start of the new school year, parents of children and young people are being encouraged by West Northamptonshire Council’s public health team to ensure children are up to date with their vaccinations. Vaccinations are offered as part of the National Programme and help support your child’s immune system and protect them against preventable illnesses. The cooler weather will mean everyone spends more time indoors, which can lead to an increase in the spread of viruses and infections. The vaccination schedule for school aged children and young people includes: 4-in-1 pre-school booster: offered to children aged 3 years and 4 months to protect against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough (pertussis) and polio Flu: available to children from Reception up to year 11, annually from September. Available through school-based clinics, or community clinics provided by the School Aged Immunisation Service, or from your child’s GP COVID-19: offered to children aged 6 months and upwards, who are immunosuppressed, from September HPV: offered to pupils in year 8 and helps to protect against the development of some of the common high-risk cancers caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus) MMR: protects against Measles, Mumps and Rubella, offered to pupils in year 8 who are not already vaccinated 3-in-1 Booster: available toyear 9 pupils to protect against Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio (DTaP) Men ACWY: protects against Meningococcal A, C W, and Y which can cause meningitis and septicaemia, offered to pupils in year 9 Chicken pox : From January 2026, children aged between 6 and 11 years who have not had chicken pox, will be invited to get a vaccination to protect against the infection via their GP. Children and young people who are immunosuppressed or have long-term health conditions may be offered additional vaccinations. When your child is eligible, they will be invited to attend a clinic. This may be held at their school, a GP surgery, or a community setting. “Vaccinations play a vital role in protecting children and young people from a range of preventable illnesses, particularly as we approach the winter months when viruses tend to circulate more widely. We recognise that some parents and carers may have questions or feel uncertain, and we encourage to have a conversation with your healthcare professional to help make informed decisions about available vaccinations. If your child is invited for a vaccination, we strongly encourage you to take up the offer. If you believe they may have missed any, please contact your GP to discuss the next steps. Ensuring children are up to date with their vaccinations is one of the most effective ways we can support their health and wellbeing." Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care & Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council For further detail regarding vaccinations, please visit the Immunisations webpage or contact your child’s GP. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
It’s time to apply for your child’s school place for September 2026
September 11, 2025
It’s time to apply for your child’s school place for September 2026
11 September 2025 Parents and carers of children living in West Northamptonshire can now apply for a reception place in a primary or infant school, a year 3 place in a junior school, or a Year 7 place in a secondary school, for the September 2026 intake. Parents and carers can apply for a place in reception if their child will be four years old on or before 31 August 2026. The closing date for applications for places in reception (and year 3 at junior school) is 15 January 2026 at midnight. The closing date for applications for Year 7 places is 31 October 2025 at midnight. All applications, whether postal or online, must be received by the closing date to be considered as on time. Late applications will not be processed until after National Offer Days and will be processed in monthly rounds. All on-time applicants will receive an offer of a school place on National Offer Days – 2 March 2026 for secondary places and 16 April 2026 for reception/junior school places. Applicants will then be provided with information on the next stage of the process. There is a separate application process for children who have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, details of which can be found on the SEND admissions page . "Choosing a school place for your child is such a big moment in their educational journey - whether it’s for Reception, Year 3 or Year 7. Each stage brings new experiences and excitement and it's important to find the right fit for your family. “Please do take the time to read through how the process works, which you can find on our schools admission page along with other useful resources. We’re here to help make this decision as smooth and informed as possible.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council An independent admission appeals process is available for families who wish to appeal against refusal of a place at any school for which they have applied. To find out more about applying for a school place in West Northamptonshire and to submit an application, visit the schools admissions page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council works to tackle in-year budget pressures
September 11, 2025
Council works to tackle in-year budget pressures
11 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is working hard to keep its books balanced despite continued financial pressures and rising demand for key services. In February the Council set a revenue budget for 2025-26 of £431.8 million (excluding the Dedicated Schools Grant), having initially started the budgetary process last summer with an anticipated £53m gap which it managed to close. In its latest budget monitoring update going to Cabinet later this month, WNC is currently forecasting a £9.6m overspend this year, equivalent to just over 2% of its budget, due to ongoing financial pressures in key services such as children’s, education and adults. The update, based in the authority’s finances four months into the 2025-26 financial year, provides an early snapshot of the Council’s in-year challenges and work is already under way towards closing the gap by the end of March 2026. Last year the Council also found itself forecasting overspends at various points of the budgetary process, however finished the financial year on budget. “With limited funding and resources coupled with a continued rise in demand for the services supporting our most vulnerable residents, we’re finding it a real challenge to keep our books balanced this year. “Although it’s not unusual to forecast an overspend at certain points of the year given our ongoing financial pressures, it’s always concerning and a top priority for us to close this 2% gap by year end. “Every year our Council, like authorities across the country, faces significant financial pressures from the ongoing government squeeze on public sector budgets and we know there’s going to be more to come next year. That’s why we’re starting the work now on next year’s budget-setting process to identify further savings and efficiencies that will help us to protect essential services and deliver better value for money.” Councillor John Slope, Finance Cabinet Member The Council’s revenue monitoring and medium-term financial plan will be the subject of discussion at the Cabinet meeting on Thursday, 18 September in the Forum, Towcester from 6pm. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Males across Northamptonshire share their mental health experiences
September 10, 2025
Males across Northamptonshire share their mental health experiences
10 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is reaffirming its commitment to suicide prevention and mental health support by launching a powerful new campaign focused on male mental health, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September 2025. In partnership with North Northamptonshire Council, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of male mental health, reduce stigma, and promote access to local and national support services. It highlights real stories from local males, encouraging open conversations and offering messages of hope. Watch a video of males discussing their mental health experiences Suicide remains a leading cause of death among males, accounting for around three-quarters of all suicides in the UK. In Northamptonshire, approximately 65 individuals take their own life each year, with males aged 40–60 being statistically at higher risk. Every death by suicide is one too many. We know that males, particularly those aged 40–60, are statistically at higher risk. This campaign is about breaking the silence, sharing lived experiences, and ensuring that support is visible and accessible to all. We want to enable and empower males to reach out, speak up, seek support, and build community. Whether you're facing bereavement, addiction, employment or financial difficulties, relationship struggles or feeling completely overwhelmed - there are services available and ready to help, without judgement. It takes just one small but incredibly important first step - reach out and seek help. Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Public Health at West Northamptonshire Council Suicide is a tragedy, for the person, their family and the wider community. Men's mental health struggles often go unrecognised or undiagnosed, and in addition to this there is often widespread stigma and misunderstanding surrounding suicide. I welcome this new campaign and the conversation around this issue. The men involved have been brave in talking about their experiences and offer hope to those who are currently experiencing feelings of despair. There is professional help on offer in Northamptonshire and the further we can spread this message, the better for all of us. Jane Bethea, Director of Public Health, Communities and Leisure at North Northamptonshire Council A wide range of free and confidential support services are available across Northamptonshire, including: Call the mental health number on 0800 448 0828 any time for urgent help or advice. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Text 07480 635531 to speak to the Chathealth service for support, available 24/7. Visit a crisis café, with locations across the county offering safe, calm environments with trained staff. Northamptonshire Talking Therapies , complete an online self-referral for counselling and psychological support. Peer-led groups: Including Andy’s Man Club, Space2TALK, SENDS4Dad, and Men Who Talk. Click here to find out more and access the male mental health service directory. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Deconstruction of former stores under way
September 08, 2025
Deconstruction of former stores under way
08 September 2025 The regeneration of Northampton town centre is gathering pace, with major demolition works now well under way at 35–45 Abington Street. The removal of long-vacant buildings, including the former M&S, BHS, and Job Centre, is clearing the way for a vibrant new development that will bring modern homes, retail, and leisure opportunities to the heart of the town. Specialist contractor Colemans has completed key preparatory works, including internal soft strip, services disconnection, and the safe removal of asbestos. Hoarding and scaffolding have been installed along Abington Street and Wellington Street, and heavy machinery, including 40-tonne and 70-tonne excavators, has now entered the site to begin mechanical demolition, initially focusing on the former M&S building. Throughout the process, Colemans is working closely with West Northamptonshire Council to minimise disruption to nearby residents and businesses. Measures include secure hoarding, robotic demolition for precision and reduced noise. Safety remains a top priority, with strict protocols in place for all site activity. “Colemans have made excellent progress so far to carefully deconstruct these long-vacant buildings, overcoming complex challenges such as asbestos removal and site preparation, and we’re now seeing the physical transformation take shape. “This phase of works is all about preparing the site ready for a developer to come on board and deliver a vibrant scheme that will bring much-needed housing, modern retail and leisure spaces, and a more attractive public realm. “It’s a bold step forward in our long-term strategy to revitalise Northampton, support local businesses, and attract new investment. I’m proud of the work being done and excited for what’s to come.” Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council "We’re pleased with the progress made so far, with the safe delivery of heavy machinery to site marking an important milestone. “Our team is now carrying out the careful deconstruction of the buildings using a combination of precision equipment and controlled sequencing. “This approach allows us to safely remove each structure while keeping the site secure and disruption to a minimum. “It’s a privilege to support the council’s vision and help create a clear, ready site for the next stage of Northampton’s regeneration.” James Doherty, Project Manager for Colemans Once demolition is complete, the site will be transformed into a residential-led development with flexible ground-floor units for retail and leisure. The scheme forms part of the council’s long-term strategy to revitalise the town centre, support local businesses, and enhance public spaces. Click here to find out more about the project and wider regeneration taking place across Northampton. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Volunteers help Sixfields sparkle for World Cup
September 05, 2025
Volunteers help Sixfields sparkle for World Cup
05 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council has expressed its gratitude to all the community groups and contractors who made sure the area of Sixfields was in top condition to welcome the Women’s Rugby World Cup, which saw six matches take place at Franklin’s Gardens stadium between 24 August and 7 September. Veolia, Kier, FCC, and other community groups and volunteers, including Northants Litter Wombles, all committed time to complete an intensive clean-up operation, focusing particularly on areas around Franklin’s Gardens. The Women’s Rugby World Cup is being hosted at Franklin’s Gardens and spans August through to September 2025. “It’s wonderful to see the area around Franklin’s Gardens looking its best as we welcome such a prestigious event. “My thanks go to FCC Environment, Veolia, Kier and their dedicated teams, and the Wombles and other community volunteers, for the tremendous work in preparing Sixfields ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. “Their efforts showcase the pride we have in West Northamptonshire and our commitment to providing clean, safe and welcoming spaces for both residents and visitors.” Cllr Nigel Stansfield, Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste at West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Tiffield Academy: A new special school opens to support children with additional needs
September 05, 2025
Tiffield Academy: A new special school opens to support children with additional needs
05 September 2025 Earlier today, staff and families came together to celebrate the official opening of Tiffield Academy, a new special school located in Tiffield, near Towcester. The Academy, part of Greenwood Academies Trust, will provide vital support to children with additional and complex needs, and their families. Marking the occasion, which has been four years in the making, the Academy welcomed colleagues, families and members of the wider community to a special opening event. This included speeches from those involved in the project; a tour of the new facilities; and a ribbon cutting, led by Mirah Mshudulu, a pupil from Purple Oaks Academy, another special school within the Trust. Developed in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council and construction experts, Willmott Dixon, the Academy will welcome young people between the ages of 4 to 18 years, who may be autistic, or experience other communication difficulties, and have severe learning difficulties. Opening its doors to pupils on Monday, 8 th September, families will benefit from a purpose-built and inclusive school setting that puts children’s wellbeing and potential at the heart of everything it does. This ambition will be further supported by the Academy’s ethos which is founded in kindness, curiosity and ambition – values which will be brought to life through a carefully planned environment to accommodate sensory learning differences. These will be supported through bespoke learning spaces, a soft playroom, sensory rooms, a rebound therapy room, expansive outdoor play areas and a family-led pastoral model. Emma Butler, Principal at Tiffield Academy, said: “Our mission at Tiffield Academy is simple - we are here to help every child feel safe, supported and seen, and to nurture a love of learning that will help them thrive, both in and out of school. “It has taken four years to bring this important project to fruition, and so I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who played a role throughout this process and has helped ensure that our children have access to an inclusive and meaningful education experience.” Wayne Norrie, CEO of Greenwood Academies Trust, said: “Tiffield Academy is a direct response to the pressing need for high-quality SEND places across the region. Ensuring we uphold our commitment to doing all we can for the communities we serve, it is also an Academy that has been shaped by deep expertise, compassion and collaboration, and I know that through this provision, our brilliant colleagues will make a real different to the lives of local families for years to come.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “Tiffield Academy will make a real and lasting difference to children with additional and complex needs, offering high-quality educational support in a safe, inclusive and purpose-built environment, right here in their local community. It means families can access the specialist provision their children need, close to home, helping them to thrive both academically and emotionally. “We are delighted to see this project come to life after years of collaboration. From identifying the need through the Council's pupil place planning process, to securing the land and leading the design and delivery of the school, this has been a true team effort. It’s a powerful example of what can be achieved when partners work together with a shared commitment to improving outcomes for our learners and I am confident of the positive difference this will make to our children, young people and families.” Featured in the image L-R: Ben Pearson, Assitant Director for Education at West Northamptonshire Council; Cllr Fiona Baker, West Northamptonshire Council; Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Skills at West Northamptonshire Council; Emma Butler, Principal at Tiffield Academy; Bonnie Pawlusek, Deputy Principal at Tiffield Academy; Mirah Mshudulu, Pupil at Purple Oaks Academy; Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive at West Northamptonshire Council; Graham Feek, Deputy Chief Executive at Greenwood Academies Trust. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Service urges residents to have chimney inspection before winter
September 05, 2025
Service urges residents to have chimney inspection before winter
Residents across Northamptonshire are being urged to check and maintain their chimneys as the colder weather sets in. During the winter months, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service typically receives more call outs to chimney fires, with 31 recorded in the year to June 2025. The most chimney fires happened in November (5), December (5) and February (7). Prevention Team Leader, Tina Collett, said: “As the colder months are creeping in and you begin to use your fire again, it’s important to have your chimney swept regularly depending on the type of fuel you burn. “This week is Chimney Fire Safety Week and it’s a good opportunity to remind those who light a fire that while you might be tempted to clean the chimney yourself, you should always use a professional. “They’ll thoroughly inspect your chimney, provide a certificate and leave you with peace of mind knowing that your home is safe and secure.” Chimney fires should not be underestimated and can result in devastating damage to your home. Signs of a chimney fire can be a loud roaring noise, sparks and flames coming from the top of the chimney, flames through tiny cracks, and smoke or a burning smell in adjoining rooms or loft. Chimneys should be cleaned four times a year if you are using wood, twice a year if you are using coal, and at least once a year if you are using smokeless fuels, oil, or gas. The Service also advises installing at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home and testing these regularly as this could give a vital early warning sign if a fire does break out. Here are some top tips for avoiding a chimney fire: Keep your chimney and flue clean and well maintained Ensure any fire is extinguished properly before leaving the house or going to bed Never interrupt the air supply by blocking air vents or air bricks Install smoke alarms on every level of your house and test them regularly Install a carbon monoxide alarm near any fuel-burning appliance you have If you have a chimney fire, remember the following: Your first option should be to get out, stay out and ring 999 If it is safe for you to do so however, shut all air vents and flue dampers to reduce oxygen supply Move flammable materials such as furniture away from the fireplace For more tips on how to stay safe for the winter season, visit our winter safety page.
Week of activities to commemorate 350-year anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton
September 04, 2025
Week of activities to commemorate 350-year anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton
04 September 2025 The 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton will be marked with a special event in Market Square to round off a week-long series of free activities across the town. The finale of a busy events programme will be held on Saturday, 20 September, with an activity day in Market Square from 11am to 7.30pm, to be followed by a service at All Saints’ Church at 7.30pm featuring guests including Rev Richard Coles. A big screen will show a specially commissioned animation by Northampton Film Festival and The Creative Place. The film is the result of a project involving hundreds of local people answering the question, if Northampton burnt down again tomorrow, what would people save, what would people rebuild first and what would make it feel like our Northampton again? Local children have contributed drawings to the animation, local animators have shared their skills and market-goers have shared their thoughts through workshops, vox pops and on the ideas wall at The Creative Place. The resulting film will premiere at 1.30pm. “The project has been supported by CLICK Arts Foundation and West Northamptonshire Council, and has also included other free opportunities to take part in animation workshops and masterclasses with animation professionals. “We’re looking forward to showcasing everyone’s work as we come together as a community to commemorate this huge milestone in our town’s proud history.” Becky Carrier of Northampton Film Festival Throughout the day there will be an extended version of The Creative Place’s Makers Market featuring artisan producers and creatives, a bar by V&B, a performance from the Bach choir and displays from Northamptonshire Police and Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue. Live music and DJ sets will be provided from the likes of Inspiration FM, United African Association, CLICK Arts Foundation, Saphron and The Performing Room. West Northamptonshire Council will also be sharing its vision for the redevelopment of Northampton town centre, echoing the efforts to rebuild the town in the wake of the blaze in 1675. A five-month event calendar has already seen exhibitions, church services, art installations, interactive trails, films, history tours and cultural celebrations take place to mark 350 years since flames ripped through the streets of Northampton, destroying 700 of the 850 buildings in the town centre and claiming 11 lives. “The Great Fire of Northampton is a hugely significant moment in our local history and we have been thrilled to see so many people coming together in recent months to mark the 350th anniversary in style. “From the carnival procession to the fire-themed planting for Northampton in Bloom, and everything in between – this has been the summer of the Great Fire and we’re looking forward to a spectacular conclusion this September with a week-long series of free activities giving everyone the chance to get involved. “This will be an opportunity for the county to come together to celebrate Northamptonshire’s extraordinary resilience, civic pride and independent spirit. It is that character that shone through 350 years ago and is still very much in evidence today.” Art historian James Miller The Great Fire of Northampton is believed to have been caused by sparks from an open fire in a home on St Mary's Street, near the former castle site. The fire quickly spread and engulfed the surrounding buildings. As the flames raged, residents sought refuge in the Market Square, but the situation grew increasingly dire, and the authorities ordered the evacuation of the area, with terrified residents forced to flee. The fire's destructive path left behind a scene of devastation, with prominent buildings such as All Hallows’ Church reduced to ashes. While the blaze caused immense destruction, it also marked a turning point in the town's architectural development. Following the fire, efforts were made to rebuild and revitalise Northampton, leading to the construction of new buildings and a renewed focus on urban planning. In a remarkable display of community spirit and determination, local residents and businesses rallied together, raising £25,000 to finance the ambitious reconstruction of the town centre, centred around the bustling Market Square. As part of the anniversary, a spectacular light show will be beamed onto All Saints’ Church every night from Monday, 15 September to Saturday, 20 September, while Fiori Musicali will perform a spine-tingling interpretation of Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks at the church at 7pm on Thursday, 18 September. “The memory of All Hallows' Church and its destruction in the Great Fire of Northampton serves as a reminder of the resilience of the town and its ability to recover and rebuild, even in the face of catastrophic events. “The events taking place here at All Saints’ and in the Market Square this September will channel that community spirit and shine a light on the history and heritage that gives Northamptonshire such a proud identity.” Father Oliver Coss, Rector of All Saints’ Church The Great Fire of Northampton anniversary commemorations have been organised by cultural and historical groups from across the county alongside partners including Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID), Northampton Town Council and West Northamptonshire Council. Find out more information about the Great Fire of Northampton anniversary commemorations Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
£400k investment to boost skills and opportunities in West Northants
September 04, 2025
£400k investment to boost skills and opportunities in West Northants
04 September 2025 Community organisations and residents across West Northamptonshire are set to benefit from a £415,000 funding boost to help people build skills, improve wellbeing, and unlock new opportunities. The funding, delivered by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), will support 15 projects led by local charities, voluntary groups, and social enterprises. These initiatives will provide training, coaching, and wellbeing support designed to help people into employment, education, and volunteering, while also strengthening connections and resilience within local communities. This year’s successful organisations represent a wide range of expertise, from supporting vulnerable families and unemployed young people to delivering specialist training and wellbeing services. “We are proud to be investing £1.7 million into these fantastic community projects through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Each of these organisations is making a real difference on the ground - whether that’s helping people develop skills to get back into work, supporting young people to plan their future, or tackling social isolation and mental health challenges. “Together, these initiatives will strengthen our communities and boost opportunities for local people, helping to grow a stronger economy for West Northamptonshire.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Examples of funded projects include: Innovation CIC – Project Innovate: supporting adults with learning difficulties to access meaningful employment through enterprise, vocational training, and tailored opportunities to build life chances. Northampton Hope Centre – Hope in the Community: offering wellbeing and life skills training, including employability support such as CV writing alongside one-to-one support to help people move into work. Doddridge Centre: employing a Community Skills and Development Worker and Apprentice to mentor and coach vulnerable and isolated residents, helping to build confidence and support people to return to work. The Good Loaf: creating meaningful work opportunities for vulnerable women through its artisan bakery and café, with dedicated one-to-one coaching to help participants progress towards employment. Learning & Skills Academy – Learning for All: combining housing, health, and food support with vocational training and work-readiness skills, helping those furthest from the labour market progress into employment, education or volunteering. The Lewis Foundation: strengthening volunteer and work placement programmes by hiring team leaders to provide consistent support, helping participants develop skills and improve their employability. Born to Shine: supporting young people with additional health needs to plan their career paths, including CV writing, interview training, LinkedIn coaching, and practical help such as clothing for interviews. Restore Northampton - The Well: expanding wellbeing services to help adults move from crisis to independence, focusing on confidence, skills and reducing loneliness. Salvation Army - Employment Plus: providing one-to-one employment support, with funding enabling the appointment of an Employment Development Coordinator to double the number of participants supported. United African Association: offering intermediate and advanced IT classes alongside employability skills workshops to help unemployed members of the African community secure work. Unity in Diversity CIC - Dad Talk: improving mental health and wellbeing among fathers from Black and refugee communities, raising awareness of cultural perspectives on mental health and reducing social isolation. Volunteer it Yourself: giving unemployed young people the chance to gain trade skills and City & Guilds qualifications by refurbishing community facilities such as Northampton Scouts Rugby Club and Long Buckby Youth Club. Workbridge (St Andrew’s Healthcare) - Pathways to Success: running nine-week courses combining employability skills training with therapeutic wellbeing activities, supporting adults referred by GP surgeries into better health and work opportunities. Other successful projects include Right Resolution, Support Northants, and the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, who will also be delivering a variety of training, mentoring and support schemes. The People and Skills programme is part of WNC’s wider commitment to supporting community resilience, enhancing workforce skills, and ensuring local residents have access to the opportunities they need to thrive. For more information on the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and funded projects, visit the Funding and Allocations webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
SEND Support Service is changing: introducing the Inclusion and Intervention Support Team
September 02, 2025
SEND Support Service is changing: introducing the Inclusion and Intervention Support Team
02 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) Support Service is now called the Inclusion and Intervention Support Team (IIST). This transformation is designed to make it easier for families to access support and guidance at an earlier stage. The new service model focuses on early identification and tailored intervention, helping children and young people with SEND thrive from the earliest years through to school age, while also empowering parents, carers and education professionals with clearer pathways to advice and guidance. These updates are based on feedback from over 130 parents, carers, school and health professionals. The responses have been key to refreshing the service, with priorities including; better access to school support, simplified request forms, more frequent in-person appointments and training for education and early years professionals to build confidence and capacity. Working together with partners to embed these changes, parents and carers can expect: Easier access to support: a new online form for parents and carers of children who are between the ages of 0 to 5 years, which focuses on development needs rather than an eligibility criteria, making it simpler to get advice and guidance. Building resource in early years settings: early years settings practitioners will receive further support to become accredited providers to help identify needs earlier, in line with the National Stamp of Approval scheme. Expanding training ability in the Portage Home Teaching team : increasing training to volunteers so more families with young children who have SEND can get support at home. The Portage model focuses on learning through play and helping children build skills step by step, supporting children’s development in a way that fits naturally into everyday routines. More in-person support in the community: the team will hold drop-in sessions for in-person advice at Family Hubs and other SEND parent groups for school age children. For Early Years children the team will attend existing stay and play sessions and SEND groups for parents to speak to the team during these sessions. Designated link worker for schools: each school will have a designated link worker offering half-termly support, including advice and training as well as targeted workshops for parents. Schools to be equipped to support children and young people with SEND: to work with schools on best practice approaches so they feel more empowered and confident to support pupils with SEND. Trained staff to support effective signposting: a skilled team who can work together with partners and professionals to efficiently signpost to teams and services for support where they are best placed to lead. These changes are designed to make it easier for families to get information and support early, by providing improved guidance and resource to them directly, as well as to early years and education settings. To help answer any questions you may have regarding this service improvement, please visit the IIST webpage or contact [email protected] . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
35 Northamptonshire start-ups awarded £2,000 grants through Build Your Business 2.0
September 03, 2025
35 Northamptonshire start-ups awarded £2,000 grants through Build Your Business 2.0
03 September 2025 Thirty-five innovative start-ups from across Northamptonshire have been awarded £2,000 grants through the relaunched Build Your Business 2.0 programme, providing vital support to help them grow, thrive and contribute to the local economy. Running until March 2026 and funded using £310,000 from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Build Your Business 2.0 is delivered entirely free of charge, ensuring accessible support for anyone looking to launch or grow a business in Northamptonshire. The grants are designed to fuel entrepreneurial journeys, providing vital funding alongside expert guidance to help founders grow and thrive in Northamptonshire. Through Build Your Business 2.0, participants benefit from tailored support to shape and strengthen their business ideas. The programme offers: 1:1 mentoring and expert-led workshops Interactive webinars and networking opportunities Access to specialist market research resources Guidance on marketing strategies, financial forecasting, business planning, wellbeing and resilience After completing this learning and development support, eligible businesses were invited to apply for a £2,000 start-up grant. Following a competitive application process, 35 innovative local businesses were selected. “It’s fantastic to see so many entrepreneurs benefit from this programme. These grants not only provide crucial early-stage funding but also equip start-ups with the skills and confidence to succeed. By supporting local businesses in this way, we’re helping to promote innovation, create jobs, and strengthen Northamptonshire’s economy for the future.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC “We’re incredibly proud to support the entrepreneurial spirit thriving across the local area. These £2,000 grants are more than just financial support - they’re a vote of confidence in the innovation, resilience and ambition of our local start-ups. This programme is helping to lay strong foundations for future growth and I look forward to seeing these businesses flourish across North Northamptonshire.” Cllr Jan O’Hara, Executive Member for Planning and Economic Growth at NNC West Northamptonshire small businesses include: North Northamptonshire small businesses include: “Taking part in the Build Your Business 2.0 programme has been transformative for Buds. It has given me, as a new business owner, the confidence, tools and connections to grow the business. The support and guidance I received in the workshops offered practical advice on marketing, finance and business planning, allowing me to refine my vision. Thanks to BIPC Northamptonshire, my initial rental costs are secured, giving me the freedom to concentrate on what really matters – delivering enriching outdoor experiences for children.” Natalie Green, owner of Buds Outdoor Play “The Build Your Business 2.0 programme has been a game changer for me. It’s given me the confidence and strategy to grow Cloco Health with more focus and direction. Having expert guidance has really helped me turn my ideas into action. Building a business alone can feel really isolating and overwhelming, but the programme gave me guidance, support, and someone I could turn to for advice. Having that community and direction made such a difference and I am very grateful for it.” Chloe Baker, founder of Cloco Health Find out more and register for Build Your Business 2.0 on the BIPC Northamptonshire website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Northamptonshire to celebrate Heritage Open Days with record number of activities
September 03, 2025
Northamptonshire to celebrate Heritage Open Days with record number of activities
03 September 2025 Northamptonshire is set to welcome its biggest ever Heritage Open Days celebration this September, with a record number of events and attractions registered across the county. Running from 12 to 21 September 2025, this year’s festival celebrates its 31st year with the theme of Architecture and Design - marking the first Heritage Open Days festival since Discover Northamptonshire, the Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP), gained accreditation from Visit England. With more venues and experiences than ever before, highlights of this year’s free event will include: Heritage trails in Northampton, Brackley and Daventry, plus a West Northamptonshire Council online assets trail showcasing buildings and monuments to discover from home. A special Great Fire of Northampton commemoration, with stories and activities reflecting the lasting impact of the fire on the town’s history. A fascinating Beer and Buildings talk at Towcester Mill Brewery covering the history of the Tap Room and the Turbine in their 18th Century building and understanding more about how brewing first came about and who paved the way to bring us real ale that we know today. A chance to share your favourite Northampton building at a special community event inside the Guildhall on 13 September. A canal trip on the Grand Union Canal, taking place on 13 and 14 September, including entering the Blisworth Tunnel with commentary relating to the canal history and its importance for the area. Daventry stepping into the spotlight with heritage buses arriving in the town centre on 13 September, alongside plenty of historic attractions to explore. Four separate events at The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the oldest and most significant buildings in the town. The much-loved big red heritage buses returning to Northampton town centre during the second weekend of the festival, running free tours of local sights. Battlefield history brought to life with events at Edgcote and Delapré Abbey. Entry to many much-loved sites including Northampton’s Guildhall, 78 Derngate and Delapré Abbey - offering rare behind-the-scenes access to places that are often closed to the public or usually charge admission. “Our incredible heritage, architecture and attractions are a huge contributor to local pride in place and our dedicated Visitor Economy Team have worked tirelessly to increase engagement and participation in this fantastic festival. We have funded Northampton Transport Heritage once again to provide free rides to local attractions so residents can get around easily and see as many as possible. “Heritage Open Days provides a fantastic opportunity to discover the unique history, architecture and culture that make West Northamptonshire such a special place, and we hope residents and visitors will join us for this once-a-year opportunity. The festival also provides the perfect warm-up to Northamptonshire Day on 25 October, when we will continue to celebrate everything that makes our county proud.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of WNC and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure “As we work with both local authorities and wider organisations to amplify the visitor economy across the county, we are dedicated to tapping into the multi-billion-pound heritage industry. The purpose of Discover Northamptonshire is to enhance and grow the local offer to benefit residents and visitors in Northamptonshire and Heritage Open Days is a must-attend, especially as this year is the biggest one to date!” Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire Timetables for the heritage buses will be available online from early September, with printed copies also available from Northampton Central Library and Northampton Museum & Art Gallery. Booking applies to certain events – please see full listings and details on the Discover Northamptonshire Webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council achieves silver award in national environmental scheme
September 02, 2025
Council achieves silver award in national environmental scheme
02 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has achieved a higher accolade of a national environmental scheme after continuing to cut its own energy use and waste. The Council has been awarded Silver accreditation in the Investors in the Environment scheme (iiE) following an independent audit, having made strong progress in reducing its environmental impact over the past year. It means the organisation moves up from the Bronze accreditation it has retained since 2023. iiE is designed to help organisations improve sustainability whilst saving time and money. Assessors said key achievements over the past 12 months included the Council cutting down its business travel by 40%, reducing electricity and water usage by 6% and 12% and slimming down waste – by just over a third for general rubbish (-34%) along with recycling (-23%) and food waste (-29%). It also made strong progress in engaging people in its sustainability work, including external events and waste education initiatives, along with notable progress in strengthening its Environmental Management System (EMS) – this is made up of the policies, practices and procedures it uses to manage its environmental responsibilities as a public organisation. Assessors said the organisation should now look forward and update its environmental strategies and policies to align with the new direction of the Council. WNC is embarking upon a refocus of its sustainability work, led by its new political administration, which removes local net zero targets in favour of concentrating on more tangible and practical projects to reduce energy and save money. Key to this will be continuing with the iiE accreditation scheme to help achieve its sustainability objectives. “It’s great news that our Council has achieved iiE Silver accreditation and recognises the work that has been taking place to cut waste and improve efficiency to make services more sustainable and save money. This reflects the approach we’re taking to refocus our sustainability work on the things within our control and which we can influence locally to deliver better results for our residents.” Cllr Nigel Stansfield, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council takes first steps towards planning action over asylum hotels
September 01, 2025
Council takes first steps towards planning action over asylum hotels
01 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is today issuing Planning Contravention Notices to the owners of the three hotels in its area being used by the Home Office for asylum accommodation. The Council, in its role as the local planning authority, believes a breach of planning control may have occurred at the hotels and is in the process of serving the notices as the first formal step in finding out more information before deciding whether enforcement action is required. The hotel owners have 21 days to respond to the notice and failure to do is an offence under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. Action is already under way by WNC to take legal and planning steps over asylum hotels in its area in the light of Epping Forest District Council’s current court case, which will conclude with a full injunction hearing in October. Alongside actively collating the evidence it needs for a robust legal case, as part of its action WNC is also ensuring it follows the full process for using formal planning enforcement powers. “By accommodating asylum seekers, we believe these hotels may have a case to answer for breaching planning control, and these notices are the first formal step in allowing us to investigate further. “The recent Epping Court of Appeal hearing highlighted the importance of ensuring the full planning enforcement process is followed if councils are looking to take action against the use of hotels in their area as asylum accommodation and that’s what we’re doing in West Northants. “With the Home Office’s use of these hotels in our area placing an unsustainable strain on our local services and with residents continuing to raise concerns, we will look at using whatever powers we have to address these issues.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
One year of enhanced support for unpaid carers
September 02, 2025
One year of enhanced support for unpaid carers
02 September 2025 Unpaid carers across West Northamptonshire are receiving more recognition and support than ever before, thanks to the successful first year of the area’s Carer Strategy 2024–2029. Designed by West Northamptonshire Council in collaboration with carers themselves, the strategy aims to ensure that carers receive support to fulfil their caring responsibilities. The first year of the area’s Carer Strategy has seen overwhelmingly positive feedback from carers with 84% reporting reduced carer burden and 60% noting an improved quality of life. Key achievements from the past year include: The launch of One Stop Shops in over 20 locations, offering advice, emotional support, and signposting. A new carer support guide, co-produced with experts by experience, soon to be available in print and online. Distribution of carer support cards and targeted outreach to help hidden carers identify themselves and access help. Registration of over 1,400 new carers, with ongoing support provided by Northamptonshire Carers. Supporting Northamptonshire Carers with the introduction of Bridgit, an AI-powered tool offering instant advice and self-help plans for carers. “Carers make an extraordinary contribution every day, often without recognition. This strategy is about changing that to make sure carers can access the right support for them. Significant progress has been made over the last year; however, we remained committed to continuing this journey together, ensuring carers feel valued and supported at every stage.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services Access a wide-range of resources for carers here Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
SEND Support Service is changing: introducing the Intervention and Inclusion Support Team
September 02, 2025
SEND Support Service is changing: introducing the Intervention and Inclusion Support Team
02 September 2025 West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) Support Service is now called the Inclusion and Intervention Support Team (IIST). This transformation is designed to make it easier for families to access support and guidance at an earlier stage. The new service model focuses on early identification and tailored intervention, helping children and young people with SEND thrive from the earliest years through to school age, while also empowering parents, carers and education professionals with clearer pathways to advice and guidance. These updates are based on feedback from over 130 parents, carers, school and health professionals. The responses have been key to refreshing the service, with priorities including; better access to school support, simplified request forms, more frequent in-person appointments and training for education and early years professionals to build confidence and capacity. Working together with partners to embed these changes, parents and carers can expect: Easier access to support: a new online form for parents and carers of children who are between the ages of 0 to 5 years, which focuses on development needs rather than an eligibility criteria, making it simpler to get advice and guidance. Building resource in early years settings: early years settings practitioners will receive further support to become accredited providers to help identify needs earlier, in line with the National Stamp of Approval scheme. Expanding training ability in the Portage Home Teaching team : increasing training to volunteers so more families with young children who have SEND can get support at home. The Portage model focuses on learning through play and helping children build skills step by step, supporting children’s development in a way that fits naturally into everyday routines. More in-person support in the community: the team will hold drop-in sessions for in-person advice at Family Hubs and other SEND parent groups for school age children. For Early Years children the team will attend existing stay and play sessions and SEND groups for parents to speak to the team during these sessions. Designated link worker for schools: each school will have a designated link worker offering half-termly support, including advice and training as well as targeted workshops for parents. Schools to be equipped to support children and young people with SEND: to work with schools on best practice approaches so they feel more empowered and confident to support pupils with SEND. Trained staff to support effective signposting: a skilled team who can work together with partners and professionals to efficiently signpost to teams and services for support where they are best placed to lead. These changes are designed to make it easier for families to get information and support early, by providing improved guidance and resource to them directly, as well as to early years and education settings. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected] or visit the Inclusion and Intervention Support Team webpage here . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Planning made clearer: views sought on what’s required to submit planning applications
September 01, 2025
Planning made clearer: views sought on what’s required to submit planning applications
01 September 2025 Residents, developers, and stakeholders are invited to take part in a public consultation on West Northamptonshire Council’s draft Local Validation List, a document that outlines the information required when submitting a planning application. This consultation forms part of the Council’s broader Planning and Building Control Service Improvement Plan, which aims to make the planning process more efficient, transparent, and responsive to local needs. Views are being sought to ensure the Local Validation List is: Clear and easy to understand Balanced between national planning standards and local requirements Inclusive of any additional or revised documentation needs Supported by a useful matrix tool that helps applicants identify what’s needed for different types of applications Your input will help shape the final version of the list, making it easier for applicants to submit complete and accurate planning applications. “We’re committed to making the planning process clearer and more accessible for everyone. This consultation is an important step in ensuring our Local Validation List reflects both national standards and the specific needs of our communities. We welcome all feedback and look forward to working together to improve how planning applications are handled across West Northamptonshire.” Cllr Thomas Manning, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Planning People can share their views by completing the online survey on WNC’s Consultation Hub Have Your Say on Planning Application Requirements - West Northamptonshire Council - Citizen Space . The consultation closes on Sunday, 26 October. If you have questions or need the consultation materials in an alternative format, please contact: [email protected] Following the consultation, all feedback will be reviewed and used to update the draft Local Validation List. The final version will be presented to WNC’s Planning Policy Committee for approval. If adopted, the new list will come into effect soon after. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Statement regarding Epping asylum appeal ruling
August 29, 2025
Statement regarding Epping asylum appeal ruling
29 August 2025 “We note the Court of Appeal’s decision to overturn the High Court’s interim injunction granted to Epping Forest District Council and await the outcome of the full injunction hearing in October. “Today’s judgement doesn’t change our course of action to take planning and legal steps which is already underway. The Council is collating evidence for a robust case against the use of these hotels in our area for asylum accommodation. “It also doesn’t change our view that the use and locations of the three hotels had never been suitable for asylum accommodation and place unreasonable and unsustainable strain on local services. We have re-emphasised these points strongly in discussion with the Home Office this week. “We will continue to do everything we can within our powers to address our residents’ concerns over these hotels and keep them safe.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Fire Service issues reminder on dangers of lithium-ion batteries following Gayton Marina boat fire
August 30, 2025
Fire Service issues reminder on dangers of lithium-ion batteries following Gayton Marina boat fire
Following a recent incident at Gayton Marina, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people of the potential fire risks that lithium-ion batteries can present. Crews were called to the Marina on the morning of August 5 to tackle a fire that had engulfed the cabin of a canal boat. Just moments before they were ready to start tackling the flames, the boat exploded. Thankfully there were no serious injuries, and crews were able to extinguish the fire. The boat was fitted with Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) batteries, which are larger batteries typically used to power electric vehicles. An investigation remains ongoing to determine what happened to the batteries to start the fire. Area Manager Neil Sadler, of Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Lithium-ion batteries come in all shapes and sizes and are used in everyday items we all own, so we want to remind people of the hazards they can sometimes pose. “If they overheat or are punctured, crushed or overcharged, then they can release a flammable vapour which can ignite, burn or in some cases explode. “Although we believe the fire was started by the batteries on this occasion, we do not know precisely why, and we are working with the owners of Gayton Marina while the investigation continues to fully understand what happened. “We want to ensure people follow the appropriate safety advice to mitigate any risks that lithium-ion batteries can pose in products we use every day, such as mobile phones, electric cars, charging devices and tools. “The main advice is for people not to put these batteries in the bin. Make sure you take them to your local household recycling centre so that staff there can dispose of them safely.” Please also consider the following safety advice: If you see white vapour, that may look like smoke, coming from a battery then get out, stay out and call the Fire Service on 999. Never charge lithium-ion batteries when you are sleeping or are away from your home. Never charge lithium-ion batteries in a place where you would need an escape route from a potential fire – it will block your way out should they set on fire. Use chargers that come with any devices you buy. Always read the manufacturer’s safety instructions, never cover chargers and make sure it is charged in a well-ventilated area. Buy replacement batteries or chargers from trusted suppliers, and chose a genuine, branded product. Picture courtesy of K Donald.
There’s still time to join the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge
August 28, 2025
There’s still time to join the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge
28 August 2025 If you haven’t signed up yet, there’s still plenty of time for children to take part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge: Story Garden. Running across Northamptonshire libraries until 13 September, the challenge invites children to enjoy six books of their choice over the summer. The theme, Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors, is inspiring children to explore new stories and ideas. Every child who signs up receives a special collector’s card and earns a sticker for each book they read – whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, e-books or audiobooks. Complete all six and they’ll be awarded a free medal and certificate to celebrate their achievement. Key dates to remember Sign up anytime at your local library until Saturday 13 September Complete the challenge by Saturday 20 September to claim a medal and certificate Libraries are also running a wide range of free events and activities alongside the challenge. Check the Libraries What’s On webpage to see what’s happening near you. The Summer Reading Challenge is free to join - just drop into your local library and get started today. For more information, visit the Libraries webpage or ask at your nearest branch. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Northamptonshire Children’s Trust champions fostering at Women’s Rugby World Cup
August 28, 2025
Northamptonshire Children’s Trust champions fostering at Women’s Rugby World Cup
28 August 2025 As the excitement builds for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, Northamptonshire Children’s Trust (NCT) is proud to announce it’s campaign to raise awareness of fostering, using the global sporting event as a powerful platform to connect with the local community and inspire action. The campaign will feature the premiere of “The Team Around the Child” which is a moving and heart-warming short film that shines a light on the parallels between rugby and fostering. The film highlights the shared core values such as teamwork, resilience, support and the power of community. “We’re inviting you to watch our film, come and talk to our team and consider how you could make a difference in a child’s life. “Every child deserves a safe and loving home. By connecting with rugby fans and families during this historic tournament, we hope to inspire more people to open their hearts and homes to children in need.” Colin Foster, Chief Executive of NCT Northampton’s Franklin’s Gardens Stadium will host the matches, including England’s highly anticipated clash with Samoa on Saturday 30th August. With thousands of fans expected to attend and millions watching worldwide, NCT is seizing this moment to spotlight the urgent need for more foster carers across the county. “We’re incredibly excited to welcome the Women’s Rugby World Cup to Northampton. This is more than just a sporting event, it’s a celebration of resilience, teamwork and community. These values are at the heart of fostering and we’re proud to align our campaign with such an inspiring occasion.” Olivia Ives, Assistant Director for Corporate Parenting As part of the initiative, NCT will be present at the Rugby Fest in Abington Park and the Rugby World Cup Fan Zone in Northampton’s Market Square, engaging with families and fans through interactive activities and opportunities to meet current foster carers. The campaign has also included digital outreach and partnerships with both councils, local rugby clubs and organisations to amplify the message. The Fan Zone’s will be taking place 24th, 30th and 31st August and 7th September and will be a free event for members of the public to enjoy the rugby matches in a fun environment. For more information about fostering in Northamptonshire or to get involved in the campaign, visit the NCT website or follow @NorthamptonshireFostering on Facebook and @fosteringnctrust on Instagram. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Bus users encouraged to complete survey to improve local services
August 26, 2025
Bus users encouraged to complete survey to improve local services
26 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is asking bus users to take part in a survey to help enhance local bus services. This is being delivered in partnership with sustainable travel consultancy GO Travel Solutions. The survey will provide feedback on current bus services from a broad range of different users across West Northamptonshire. Results will be used to guide future planning and investment in local bus services. The survey forms part of the area’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, funded by the UK Government. Anyone who has used a bus in West Northamptonshire within the last four weeks is invited to complete the 5-minute survey. "We want to hear directly from bus users about their recent journeys. Their feedback is vital in helping us understand how services are working and where improvements can be made. By taking just a few minutes to complete the survey, they can support improving bus services in West Northamptonshire." Cllr Richard Butler, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport The survey is open until Friday 19 September. To take part, visit: www.go-travel-solutions.com/wnc-bus-survey Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
A final chance to have your say on alternative education in West Northamptonshire
August 26, 2025
A final chance to have your say on alternative education in West Northamptonshire
26 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is inviting parents, carers and guardians to take part in a final round of engagement sessions to help shape the future of alternative education across the area. Unregistered alternative education provision refers to educational settings that operate outside the formal school system. These settings often support children who need a different approach to learning due to health issues, emotional challenges, or other personal circumstances. While these provisions can offer valuable and flexible learning opportunities, they are not currently subject to the same regulations as registered schools. Following the recent consultation which closed in July , the Council received valuable feedback from families and stakeholders to inform the development of a new commissioning framework. The aim of this new framework is to provide clear guidance and standards for these settings to ensure that all alternative education settings are safe, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse needs of children and young people. As a second wave of engagement, a series of face-to-face and virtual drop-in sessions throughout September have been planned, giving an opportunity for families to speak directly to the team and share their views. Parents, carers and guardians are invited to drop-in to one of the sessions below: 8 September, 10.30am -12.30pm: Daventry Library, The Abbey Market Square, Daventry NN11 4XG 11 September, 1pm to 3pm: The Guildhall (Jeffery room) St Giles' Square, Northampton, NN1 1DE 16 September, 4pm to 6pm: Towcester Hub, The Forum, Whittons Ln, Towcester NN12 6AD 18 September, 5pm to 7pm: virtual (via Teams) Join the virtual meeting “This is an important piece of work and one that is crucial we get right. Every child deserves access to good quality education that supports their individual needs and for many, alternative provision plays a vital role in this.” “These drop-in sessions are an opportunity for families to come along and feedback in-person or via our online session directly to our team. We hope by putting on these additional engagement sessions, will encourage further feedback and conversation with parents, carers and guardians who child or children use alternative education.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council Once finalised, the new framework which is set to launch in 2026 will establish a set of clear standards for safeguarding, health and safety and educational quality, a professional review panel to assess providers against these standards, a directory of approved providers and ongoing monitoring and compliance checks to ensure high-quality provision is maintained. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Brackley, Silverstone and Towcester bus service improvements
August 27, 2025
Brackley, Silverstone and Towcester bus service improvements
27 August 2025 A series of improvements are being introduced to local bus services connecting Brackley, Silverstone, Towcester and Northampton. Going live on Monday, 1 September, the changes aim to provide more frequent bus services between the towns and improve reliability. As part of the area’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) there will now be more opportunities for people to travel for education, work, health, shopping and leisure. The initiative is being delivered thanks to a partnership between West Northamptonshire Council, Silverstone Park MEPC, Stagecoach Midlands and the Department for Transport. The following services are being introduced: New X88 Brackley to Northampton via Silverstone and Towcester: The X88 bus service will operate as a more direct limited-stop express route between Brackley, Silverstone Business Park, Towcester and Northampton. Bus service 88 Brackley to Northampton via Silverstone and Towcester: The 88 bus service will be extended to Brackley and replace the 87 between Towcester and Brackley. It will also serve Silverstone Business Park and some journeys will serve Syresham. Bus service 87 Towcester to Northampton and Northampton General Hospital: With customers now able to use the 88 and X88 services, the 87 service will no longer run between Brackley and Towcester. However, Silverstone UTC students will be able to use the 88 service in its place. The 87 service will be extended to serve the hospital, providing improved connections for both visitors and staff. “We’re pleased to have worked closely with partners to introduce these changes that will benefit those who live, work and visit our area. They deliver more journey options and times and better connectivity to key destinations such as schools, workplaces, leisure facilities and health services.” Cllr Richard Butler, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport “Stagecoach buses are a key part of helping to connect people and places in West Northants and these service improvements will provide customers with better connectivity and more reliable journeys. We understand the financial challenges we’re all facing with the ongoing cost of living crisis and these enhanced services provide a real alternative for customers when travelling around the region without the need to pay for fuel or excessive car parking charges. We look forward to welcoming customers on-board and we want people to know that when it comes to using the bus in West Northants, we’ve got you.” Mark Whitelocks, Stagecoach Midlands’ Managing Director For more information on the new services, please visit www.stagecoachbus.com Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Flying the flag with pride and safety
August 27, 2025
Flying the flag with pride and safety
27 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council has issued safety advice to support residents who are keen to proudly fly patriotic flags within their communities. People have been showing their sense of national pride this summer by flying the union and St George’s flags around the country, including across West Northamptonshire. With the topic raising debate both nationally and locally, WNC has now moved to clarify the safety and legal rules around flying flags in public to ensure residents don’t put themselves at risk. “It’s great to see residents having such a sense of national pride and expressing this by flying the union and St George’s flags, particularly with West Northants hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup and the Red Roses due to play at Franklins Gardens this weekend. “I fully encourage people to proudly fly flags on their own homes and property safely but I would urge them not to attempt anything dangerous like putting them up on street furniture or road signs. Not only does this put their own safety at great risk, but also that of motorists if the flags distract them or block their view. There are many other places away from the public highway where flags can be flown so let’s do so and celebrate our country safely.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council “Lampposts are not designed to take the weight of a ladder or person climbing up and we are concerned that someone will be seriously hurt as a result of these actions, not to mention the very real risk of electrocution. For these very reasons it was made an offence under the Highways Act 1980 to fix items to lampposts without the consent of the highways authority and this remains the case today.” Stuart Timmiss, WNC’s Executive Director of Place Communities across West Northamptonshire are regularly encouraged to fly flags on their homes to celebrate key national events and activities, most recently for the 80th anniversary of VJ Day and throughout this summer as the area hosts the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Extraordinary meeting to debate asylum accommodation issues
August 26, 2025
Extraordinary meeting to debate asylum accommodation issues
26 August 2025 Councillors will debate the current use of three hotels in West Northamptonshire as asylum accommodation at an extraordinary meeting of the Council taking place next month. A special meeting of West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 16 September to consider the following motion proposed by Cllr Daniel Lister: "Following the judgement of Mr Justice Eyre on 19 August, granting Epping Forest District Council an injunction to prevent the inappropriate use of the Bell Hotel in its district as an asylum seeker centre, this Council resolves to instruct, without delay, suitably qualified legal counsel to represent West Northamptonshire Council in seeking an interim injunction against the owners of the Ibis Hotel, Crick, the Holiday Inn, Flore, and the MK Hotel, Deanshanger, to prevent their use as asylum seeker centres. Council further calls upon all members to support this motion." The request for an extraordinary meeting was accepted by WNC’s Monitoring Officer under the rules of the Council’s Constitution, having been seconded and then supported by a further five councillors. The meeting, which can only debate the proposed motion by Cllr Lister, will take place in Northampton’s Guildhall on Tuesday, 16 September at 5pm. It is in addition to the scheduled meeting of Full Council due to take place nine days later on 25 September. In light of the Epping Forest District Council High Court ruling, the Council was already actively reviewing the legal evidence and information it holds as part of preparing a robust case against the use of the three hotels, which are commissioned by the Home Office for asylum accommodation. It is important that the Council has strong evidence similar to that presented in the Epping Forest case to ensure the chances of its success in future legal action, and given the potential significant cost to taxpayers. "We fully understand the concerns of our residents and fellow councillors about the use of these hotels as asylum accommodation and our Council had already started the work to see if it has a robust legal case like Epping’s. It is important to remember that previous actions to seek an injunction on the basis of planning breaches have, until now, not been successful and legal action is very costly to our taxpayers. It would therefore be irresponsible for the Council to apply to the court to seek an injunction without knowing first we have the evidence for a successful outcome. “I welcome the opportunity to discuss these issues publicly with fellow members in the Council Chamber.” - Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of the Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Prepare for the unexpected: join September’s emergency planning campaign
August 26, 2025
Prepare for the unexpected: join September’s emergency planning campaign
26 August 2025 This September, residents in West Northamptonshire are invited to take part in the annual September is Preparedness Month campaign, delivered through the national 30 Days 30 Ways initiative. Running from 1–30 September, the campaign shares simple daily activities designed to help people prepare for emergencies and strengthen personal and community resilience. Each day highlights a different theme, from flooding and power cuts to fire safety, first aid, and mental health, with practical tips and resources to put into action. Ahead of the campaign, residents are encouraged to complete a short survey to help assess how prepared they currently feel for unexpected events. The survey opens on 1 September. “When people think about emergencies, they often imagine major global events. But being prepared is just as important for the smaller disruptions we all face from time to time, power cuts, burst water mains, gas leaks, or severe weather. “A few simple steps can make these everyday emergencies easier to deal with and also build resilience for much less likely but more serious situations.” Cllr Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, HR and Regulatory Services at WNC “We’re proud to be part of this year’s programme, working with colleagues across the country to share clear, practical advice that anyone can follow. This campaign has grown year on year, and 2025 will continue that momentum with fresh ideas, useful resources, and engaging challenges people can take part in both online and offline.” Joanne Maddams, Emergency Planning and Business Continuity Manager at WNC and co-founder of the 30 Days 30 Ways UK campaign Residents can follow the campaign through daily updates on social media by searching #30Days30WaysUK, and explore resources and activities on the campaign website. For more information, visit our 30 Days 30 Ways webpage or email [email protected] . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
New provider appointed to deliver vital homelessness support in Northampton
August 22, 2025
New provider appointed to deliver vital homelessness support in Northampton
22 August 2025 A new provider has been appointed to deliver vital support for people with a history of rough sleeping or at risk of homelessness in Northampton. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has appointed Connection Support as the new provider of Oasis House following the conclusion of a procurement process. After making the decision not to tender for the new support contract, Midland Heart worked closely with WNC to explore the long-term options for the scheme and the continuation of services. The new 3.5 year contract, with the option to extend for a further year, will ensure continuity of care while strengthening the level of person-centred support available to residents. Oasis House provides 59 units of accommodation for people with multiple and complex needs, offering intensive, tailored support designed to help individuals move away from homelessness and towards long-term stability. This new service is expected to deliver long-term benefits and financial savings for the Council by preventing repeat homelessness and rough sleeping, reducing demand for supported housing and adult social care, and minimising costs linked to offending, poor health, and unemployment. "We are delighted to welcome Connection Support as the new provider at Oasis House. This appointment secures the future of this essential service and ensures that people experiencing homelessness in our area will continue to receive the intensive, tailored support they need. “Oasis House plays a crucial role in helping people rebuild their lives, and this new partnership will strengthen our ability to meet the needs of some of our most vulnerable residents." Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at WNC Over the coming weeks, WNC, Northamptonshire Partnership Homes (NPH), and Midland Heart will work closely with Connection Support to ensure a smooth transition of services. "We’re thrilled to be working with West Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire Partnership Homes to deliver Oasis House, building on the success of Midland Heart and ensuring a smooth transition for residents. “This marks an exciting expansion of our services into Northamptonshire, and we’re committed to bringing our expertise of providing trauma-informed, person-centred support to the area. “Our focus will be on repeat prevention as much as crisis response – helping people to not only find stability today but equipping them with the tools and connections they need to prevent homelessness in the future." Chris Keating, CEO of Connection Support Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Northamptonshire Day to be marked with countywide event
August 21, 2025
Northamptonshire Day to be marked with countywide event
21 August 2025 A bold new celebration of civic pride, place, and community spirit is coming to Northamptonshire this autumn as West and North Northamptonshire Councils join forces for Northamptonshire Day, taking place on Saturday 25 October 2025. This flagship event will utilise Northampton Market Square as the vibrant hub of culture creativity and connection, showcasing everything that makes the county special - from local talent and rich heritage to delicious food and family-friendly fun - with plans to host next year’s event in the north of the county. Delivered in partnership with Discover Northamptonshire, the official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) and countywide tourism body. Discover Northamptonshire includes the two Councils with organisations across the county to increase footfall and spend, enhancing the visitor economy and driving economic growth. As an accredited LVEP, Discover Northamptonshire works directly with Visit England to expand all areas of tourism from business support to travel trade and internationalisation. "Northamptonshire Day is about celebrating the civic pride we all feel for where we live and work, from our historic towns and stunning countryside to the people, businesses and culture that make our communities thrive. “This is more than just a day of events; it’s the start of a shared tradition, rooted in civic pride and future ambition. We’re proud to recognise Northamptonshire Day as a way in which to champion our county’s strengths and show the dedication we have as local authorities for creating opportunities that reflects the creativity, energy and unity of our county." Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council "I was born and raised in the county and am extremely proud to call Northamptonshire my home - it is an exceptional area of the country. “This celebration is a powerful opportunity to come together as one county. Whether you’re a resident, visitor or local business, Northamptonshire Day is a chance to showcase and enjoy everything that makes this such a special place to live, work and explore. “We are committed to nurturing community spirit and spotlighting local strengths, and this event is a fantastic step forward in that journey." Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council "Discover Northamptonshire is proud to support this countywide celebration of culture and community. “It’s a moment to shine a light on our heritage, creativity, and visitor offer while giving residents and guests the chance to explore hidden gems and shared stories. It’s this kind of collaboration that brings people together and builds pride in place, whilst actively showcasing Northamptonshire as a must-visit destination to all." Richard Clinton, Chair of Discover Northamptonshire The event, taking place on Saturday 25 October from 1pm to 7.30pm, will include a range of activities to engage, excite and celebrate all things Northamptonshire, including: Live entertainment with local artists Interactive stalls for the whole family Heritage exhibitions to celebrate and remember the proud history of the county and the incredible actions that have taken place in this area A celebration of culture, inspiring creativity and promoting the innovation delivered locally A county-wide social media celebration using #NorthantsDay to share photos, memories and civic pride Local businesses, schools, and community organisations are encouraged to get involved by decorating their premises in Northamptonshire colours, running themed promotions, or hosting events of their own. Sponsors for Northamptonshire Day so far include Billing Aquadrome, Delapre Abbey, EMW Law, Northampton BID, Northants Sings Out, Silverstone Park, and the South Midlands Local Skills Improvement Plan. This is the first county-wide cultural event delivered in partnership with Discover Northamptonshire, and it showcases the ambition for a lasting annual tradition – one that celebrates what unites us, amplifies local identity, and drives shared success. The event comes one year after the regenerated Market Square reopened and has been host to numerous events and activities to drive footfall locally and will be the dedicated Women’s Rugby World Cup Fan Zone over the next month. The Market Square is home to incredible local traders with new events and businesses moving in on a regular basis – such as a new florist which will set up stall later this month. For full event details, activities and how to take part, please visit the Discover Northamptonshire website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council takes action following Epping Forest High Court ruling
August 21, 2025
Council takes action following Epping Forest High Court ruling
21 August 2025 Action is under way at West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) to take similar legal and planning steps to Epping Forest District Council over asylum hotels in its area. The Council is actively reviewing the evidence and information it holds as part of preparing a robust case against the use of the three hotels in its area being used by the Home Office for asylum accommodation. It is important that the Council has strong evidence similar to that presented in the Epping Forest case to ensure the chances of its success in future legal action, and given the significant future cost of this to its local taxpayers. “We have started collating the evidence we need to prepare a robust case against the use of these hotels for asylum accommodation. We know residents are concerned by the use of these hotels as asylum accommodation and we will do everything we can within our powers to keep our communities safe. “The Epping Forest case opens a new legal pathway for us to explore. But it would be irresponsible of us to start a legal action, such as seeking an injunction, without knowing we have the evidence we need for a successful outcome to the case. This type of action is costly and we must be absolutely clear on the consequences for our taxpayers on any potential decision we make.” Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of WNC Cllr Arnull added that the use and locations of the three hotels in West Northants had never been suitable for asylum accommodation and continued to place unreasonable and unsustainable strain on local services. He recently wrote to the Deputy Prime Minister about the wider use of asylum accommodation in the community, along with raising these issues and concerns with the Home Office. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Rugby World Cup brings business boost to West Northamptonshire
August 22, 2025
Rugby World Cup brings business boost to West Northamptonshire
22 August 2025 The Women’s Rugby World Cup has brought a welcome boost for local hotels, restaurants and businesses in West Northamptonshire, with thousands of extra visitors flocking to the county. Four international teams are currently staying in West Northamptonshire, with the county’s hotels benefitting from long-term team stays of up to a month. With Franklin’s Gardens hosting matches for large crowds to enjoy, the tournament has also brought a surge of visitors filling local hotels, booking restaurants and supporting high street businesses. As well as the uplift in tourism, the event has created a cultural buzz across the county, with global visitors and local people coming together to celebrate the very best in women’s rugby. West Northamptonshire Council was also pleased to host a business event on Harnessing Sporting Excellence to ensure all local businesses benefited from this largescale opportunity for the local economy. “We are incredibly proud to welcome the Women’s Rugby World Cup to West Northamptonshire. The tournament will not only deliver world-class sporting moments, but also a major boost for our local businesses and hotels. “It has been fantastic to see our communities and visitors come together to celebrate, with last weekend’s spectacular welcome ceremony in our historic Guildhall setting the tone for the weeks ahead. We look forward to continuing to showcase everything our area has to offer to a global audience – and hope many of those visiting will return to enjoy West Northamptonshire again in the future.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council, said: Local businesses have embraced Rugby World Cup fever, with many employers across the county offering special discounts, offers and competitions such as Willow Lake Water Park and Delapre Abbey. The town centre is also alive with colour, thanks to vibrant city dressing for the tournament, eye-catching yarn bombing by the Northamptonshire Women’s Institute, and shops such as Abraxas Cookshop on St Giles Street in Northampton creating themed window displays to mark the occasion. “I am happy to say that the Rugby World Cup has been a real boost to us all in the county. August and early September are normally a bit lower on sales once the school holiday period kicks in, so the timing of the rugby has been perfect. “The uplift has been significant for the hotels hosting teams, with month-long block bookings bringing not just room sales but also high-value food and drink spend, as well as event space hire for storage, physio and media use. “Culturally, hosting the world’s top women’s teams has been a real treat - our staff and communities have enjoyed welcoming visitors from across the globe, and for some players it’s even been their very first visit to the UK. We’ve had fun sharing simple things - like explaining what porridge is at breakfast! Overall, there has been a real positive vibe around the hotels. “This largescale activity completely lines with the mission of the Local Visitor Economy Partnership, Discover Northamptonshire, and I’m certain this event will serve as a brilliant advert for the UK as a destination for global sports events and a fantastic showcase for the county, West Northamptonshire Council, and Northampton Saints, who have done a superb job in hosting.” Andrew Hollett, Chair of the Northamptonshire Hotelier’s Forum Find out more about visiting Northamptonshire including attractions, events and where to stay on the Discover Northamptonshire website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service introduces two new vehicles to enhance wildfire response
August 22, 2025
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service introduces two new vehicles to enhance wildfire response
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service has introduced two new Seasonal Support Vehicles as a trial to enhance our ability to respond to wildfires and better protect people and land in Northamptonshire. Based at Woodford Halse and Raunds Fire Stations, the vehicles have been strategically placed on different sides of the county to cover the whole of Northamptonshire. The Seasonal Support Vehicles are designed to transport equipment and firefighters to support crews at fires in locations that may not be easily accessed by larger fire engines. The Vehicles don’t have fire hoses and instead are equipped with specialised tools to fight wildfires such as beaters that are used to create breaks in the ground helping to prevent fires spreading, and wildfire backpacks that can carry up to 20 litres of water each. New Firefighting blowers have also been introduced. They are designed to blow and push fire back on itself rather than spreading further across dry ground. The two new vehicles have been brought into the fleet as part of plans to respond to climate change and incidents related to its effects, such as wildfires, which are also outlined as a priority in Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Services’ Community Risk Management Plan. Wildfires have become a national issue for fire and rescue services – the National Fire Chiefs Council reported in June this year that fire and rescue services in England and Wales had responded to 564 wildfires, a 717% increase in wildfires incidents for the same period last year. [embedded content] Area Manager for Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service Neil Sadler has overseen the project. He said: “We have introduced the vehicles into our fleet on a trial basis following learning from the summer of 2022, where Northamptonshire had a large number of wildfires, and the experiences of other fire services this summer like Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service, who have been heavily hit by wildfires in the past month. “Wildfires are a risk for our largely rural county and we are constantly reviewing our capability to respond to them effectively and safely. The Seasonal Support Vehicles and our new equipment will help to ensure that we are prepared to protect the people, homes, and land in Northamptonshire.” As part of the trial, Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service will be looking into how the vehicles could be used to support the response to flooding in the county and what they would be equipped with.
Prologis UK to Deliver Flagship Build-to-Suit Facility for Marks & Spencer at DIRFT
August 21, 2025
Prologis UK to Deliver Flagship Build-to-Suit Facility for Marks & Spencer at DIRFT
21 August 2025 Prologis has been selected to deliver a build-to-suit National Distribution Centre for Marks & Spencer at DIRFT — a flagship development that will support the transformation of the retailer’s food logistics network while showcasing Prologis’ expertise in designing and delivering highly complex logistics facilities. Spanning 1.3 million square feet, the facility represents a £340 million investment — the largest in M&S’s food supply chain history — and forms a key part of the company’s strategy to double the size of its food business. The construction phase is expected to support over 2,000 jobs, with around 1,000 roles once operational — covering logistics, management, and technical engineering. The development combines chilled storage, advanced automated fulfilment, returns and recycling operations, and dedicated office space — all tailored to M&S’s operational requirements and growth ambitions. TGW Logistics has been appointed as the automation partner for the project. Located at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal, the campus will be fully electric and designed to achieve a BREEAM Outstanding rating — an internationally recognised benchmark for sustainable building performance. Proven Build-to-Suit Expertise With decades of experience in land acquisition, site selection, permitting, construction and delivery, Prologis is uniquely positioned to manage complex, large-scale projects like this one. Its in-house teams streamline the process from design through delivery, ensuring maximized value engineering, accelerated timelines and reliable technical expertise at every step. By partnering with industry-leading architects, consultants and contractors, Prologis consistently delivers facilities on or ahead of schedule. “M&S selected Prologis for our experience in delivering complex large-scale logistics projects designed to meet the highest environmental standards. This development enables a future-fit supply chain for M&S and brings lasting economic value to the Midlands — through skilled jobs, resilient infrastructure and investment in one of the UK’s most important logistics locations.” Paul Weston, Regional Head at Prologis UK DIRFT: A Key Driver of Regional Growth This latest milestone takes Prologis’ leased or committed space at DIRFT III to over 75%, reinforcing the site’s role as one of the UK’s most mature intermodal logistics hubs. Currently, more than 10,000 people are employed across DIRFT in a growing range of logistics, operations, and technical roles. In 2023/24 alone, customers at DIRFT contributed £13.1 million in business rates. The site generates £219 million in annual GVA, making it one of the region’s most important economic assets. “This investment is a strong signal of continued confidence in West Northamptonshire and wider South Midlands region as a centre of national and European logistics. As the UK’s largest inland port, DIRFT plays a critical role in supporting jobs, attracting business, and driving economic growth across the backbone of the UK. We look forward to working with all stakeholders on the long-term future of the site as it continues to evolve.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Setting New Standards for Sustainable Logistics On completion, the new M&S facility is expected to be the largest building in the world to achieve BREEAM Outstanding certification and is also targeting EPC A+. On-site features include a large-scale rooftop PV array, EV charging, energy-saving technologies, and extensive use of recycled materials — demonstrating how Prologis build-to-suit developments combine technical excellence with sustainable innovation. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Sustainability refocus set to progress after scrutiny meeting
August 20, 2025
Sustainability refocus set to progress after scrutiny meeting
20 August 2025 A refocus of West Northamptonshire Council’s sustainability work and the removal of local climate targets is set to move forward following further scrutiny by its councillors. At their meeting last night (Tuesday, 19 August) the Council’s Place and Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee reviewed the recent decision by Cabinet members to change the authority’s approach to its sustainability commitments and has decided to take no further action. It means the Council will continue with its plans to remove local targets – to be net zero in its operational emissions by 2030 and for those of residents and business by 2045 – in favour of focusing its limited public resources on practical projects that deliver the greatest value to local residents and businesses. However, it is recognised that the Government’s target remains for the wider area to be Net Zero by 2050. The refocus, led by the new political administration, recognises that while the Council cannot control global climate change, it can achieve better results for local communities and nature by focusing on matters within its control and for which it has significant influence. WNC will continue its wider sustainability work, still publishing its Annual Sustainability Report and working towards its environmental accreditation. Last night’s meeting followed a call-in of the July Cabinet decision by a group of eight councillors who requested full scrutiny took place by the committee. With the committee determining that no action should be taken on the Cabinet’s original decision, WNC will remove its local net zero targets and progress with work to develop and deliver a new Sustainability Strategy that has direct positive impacts and tangible projects for communities. Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council said: “We are dedicated to protecting and improving our environment and with limited budgets and resources, pursuing these net-zero targets is simply not affordable for our residents and detracts our focus from more realistic, tangible projects we can deliver within our communities to improve their lives and reduce energy bills. “With Cabinet’s decision scrutinised and found to be a sound approach, we will now move forward with the removal of these targets and refocus our sustainability efforts for the benefit of residents.” Environmental initiatives set to move forward include local walking and cycling infrastructure projects and activities through the local nature recovery scheme as well as energy efficiency measures to make homes warmer and reduce bills. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Congratulations to students receiving their GCSE results today!
August 21, 2025
Congratulations to students receiving their GCSE results today!
21 August 2025 Today, 21 August 2025, is GCSE results day with many students in West Northamptonshire receiving their much-anticipated grades. “A huge congratulations to every student receiving their GCSE results today. This is a moment to celebrate your achievements and reflect on your journey you’ve taken to get here. “I hope the grades are what you expected and you are pleased with them. Whether you’re heading to sixth form, college, starting T-Levels or exploring apprenticeships, your future is full of exciting opportunities. “If your results weren’t quite what you hoped for, please don’t be disheartened. There are many options available, and your school’s teachers and career advisors are there to help guide you through your next steps. “Whatever you choose, be proud of getting your results today, it is a huge achievement.” Cllr Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Exit Capacity Calculator –
August 21, 2025
Exit Capacity Calculator –
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Venue capacity calculator – building exits
August 21, 2025
Venue capacity calculator – building exits
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Statement regarding Epping asylum hotel High Court ruling
August 20, 2025
Statement regarding Epping asylum hotel High Court ruling
20 August 2025 “We have always been clear with the Government and the public that the current use of three hotels in West Northamptonshire have never been suitable locations for asylum accommodation and place an unreasonable and unsustainable strain on our already-stretched local services. “We also know these hotels cause concerns for our communities and I have raised these issues with the Home Office and written to the Deputy Prime Minister about the wider use of asylum accommodation within our community. “We are currently considering the implications of this judgment to understand any similarities and differences and are actively looking at the options now available to us. As such I am unable to comment further at this stage but will issue a further update when able to do so. In the meantime, we will continue to work with partners in the police and in our communities to make sure that residents’ concerns are heard and addressed.” Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
A new home for local support: Council’s One Stop Shop is moving to One Angel Square this September
August 19, 2025
A new home for local support: Council’s One Stop Shop is moving to One Angel Square this September
19 August 2025 From the end of September 2025, West Northamptonshire Council’s customer services One Stop Shop in Northampton will move from the Guildhall to its new home at One Angel Square, accessible via the St John's Street entrance. This move brings together a wide range of council services and local support partners all under one roof, making it quicker and easier for residents to get the help they need in one place. Alongside West Northants Council teams like Housing Options, Wellbeing, and Adult Social Care, the new One Stop Shop will provide access, advice and signposting to a range of key local partners including Citizens Advice, Community Law Service, DWP (Jobcentre Plus), Migrant Help, NDAS, and Northampton Town FC Community Trust. Together, they’ll offer advice on a range of queries our residents may have including benefits support, legal support, domestic abuse help, health checks, EU Settlement Scheme support and employability skills, all under one roof. This change is part of the Council’s wider work to use public buildings more efficiently and improve the way services are delivered. The new One Stop Shop at One Angel Square will be offering a more accessible environment, with modern self-serve areas whilst offering a joined-up support from council and community partners. The new space was designed to give customers a better experience, whether they're popping in to ask about council tax, looking for housing support, or speaking to someone about benefits, health, or general advice. “This move is about making life easier for people who need help and advice. It’s about putting our residents first and creating a space where you can come in, get the support you need from a range of professionals, and leave feeling listened to and supported. “By bringing everything under one roof in a modern space, we’re also making better use of council buildings and saving money that we can invest back into frontline services.” Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services Residents can also access a range of our services on our website 24/7. Our customer service team alongside other key council services and partner agencies offer a wide range of drop-in options across West Northamptonshire. You can find a drop-in session near you on our website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
West Northamptonshire welcomes international teams ahead of Rugby World Cup
August 18, 2025
West Northamptonshire welcomes international teams ahead of Rugby World Cup
18 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) extended a warm welcome to four of the international teams competing in the Women’s Rugby World Cup Women’s 2025 during a special ceremony held at Northampton Guildhall on Saturday 16 August. Players, coaches and staff from Ireland, Japan, South Africa and Brazil - who have all arrived in West Northamptonshire ahead of their matches on Sunday 24 August, were greeted by WNC’s Chairman and Leader alongside community representatives and partners, before exchanging gifts as a gesture of friendship and shared sporting spirit. Each team received a specially curated wooden shoe last, created by local manufacturer Spring Line to celebrate Northamptonshire’s world-famous shoemaking heritage, while WNC was also delighted to accept tokens from the visiting nations. Guests were treated to an energetic performance from Northants Signs Out choir followed by a vibrant cultural presentation from Northampton College students inspired by the hit musical Kinky Boots, which celebrated the area’s creativity, diversity and global connections. Local players from the Old Northamptonians rugby club also acted as flag bearers, proudly carrying the international flags and leading the teams as they entered. Northampton town centre was also beautifully dressed for the occasion, featuring vibrant yarn bombing by Northamptonshire WI and striking giant shoe planters, which have been restored, adapted and planted by Workbridge and St Andrew’s to add a unique local touch to the celebrations. "We are incredibly proud to be a host venue for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, and to welcome teams from around the world to West Northamptonshire – and what a welcome we gave! “This tournament is not just about world-class sport - it’s about bringing communities together, sharing cultures and showcasing everything our area has to offer. We wish every team the very best of luck and look forward to the excitement ahead both on and off the pitch." Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of WNC As part of the celebrations, fans are invited to join the official Fan Zone in Northampton Market Square on each Northampton match day, with big screens, live entertainment, food and drink, and plenty of free activities for all ages. Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton will host the following tournament fixtures: Sunday 24 August: Ireland v Japan (kick-off 12 noon) and South Africa v Brazil (kick-off 2.45pm) Saturday 30 August: England v Samoa (kick-off 5pm) Sunday 31 August: Ireland v Spain (kick-off 12 noon) Sunday 7 September: Italy v Brazil (kick-off 2pm) and France v South Africa (kick-off 4.45pm) Find out more about the tournament and events and activities on the WRWC webpage . Watch the Welcome Ceremony on WNC’s YouTube channel . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Council working to support residents affected by NAASH situation
August 19, 2025
Council working to support residents affected by NAASH situation
19 August 2025 NAASH is the landlord of several supported accommodation properties in West Northants, and agreements are held between them and their tenants. While the Council has a duty to ensure any eviction process is lawful, WNC cannot influence NAASH’s eviction decisions, take steps to close the organisation or prevent its closure, but will step in to support residents where possible. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is however taking steps to support tenants who may be at risk of eviction or homelessness given the vulnerability of some tenants. Each case is being looked at individually so that tailored support can be offered. The decision to close has followed a long period of discussion and negotiation related to housing benefit claimed for tenants’ support at the properties. The Council was forced to stop paying this when it became clear that the claims did not meet the government guidelines. "We have been working for a long time to try and resolve the issues over housing benefit, but ultimately we must follow the guidelines. “The decision to now close and possibly evict residents is NAASH's alone. That said where it is reasonable for us to step in and provide help to our residents, we absolutely will. We are actively engaging with other providers to ensure there is support available to help residents through this difficult time. “We recognise the deep anxiety this situation causes for people with complex health and personal challenges. Safeguarding vulnerable residents is our priority. We are working directly with individuals to ensure continuity of care and accommodation, and to connect them with appropriate health and support services. “We as a council have already made a commitment to reduce homelessness and its wider impact, and we are acting proactively to address this.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities WNC is encouraging anyone affected to seek advice as early as possible. Residents who are at risk of homelessness can contact the Council’s housing team via the self-referral portal or visit our offices in Northampton, Daventry or Towcester from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Public asked to take care ahead of weekend hot weather
August 16, 2025
Public asked to take care ahead of weekend hot weather
With the hot weather continuing – Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service is reminding the public to take care as the risk of serious fire increases. This comes as the service has been called to 18 deliberate fires between August 8 to 14 – affecting the crews’ ability to respond to more serious and potentially life-threatening incidents. With such dry vegetation, the risk of wildfires is high, and any small fire can grow out of control increasing the risk of fires spreading. We are urging people, particularly young people, to understand the risks of starting fires, however small, particularly during these current hot weather conditions. Deliberately starting fires is a criminal offence with serious consequences. It puts lives at risk, ties up emergency resources, and causes damage to property and the environment. Arson can lead to prosecution, fines, and imprisonment It endangers lives, wildlife, and communities So, as we approach the weekend, we would ask the public to stay vigilant and if you see a fire, call 999. If you have information about deliberate fires, you can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Let’s keep Northamptonshire safe.
Community comes together for Day of Action in The Mounts, Northampton
August 15, 2025
Community comes together for Day of Action in The Mounts, Northampton
15 August 2025 Local partners, community groups and residents joined forces for a community-led Day of Action in The Mounts area of Northampton, working together to tackle environmental issues and anti-social behaviour and promote pride in the area. Organised by West Northamptonshire Council in collaboration with a range of partners including - Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Rescue Service, and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner's Office, Veolia (the Council’s waste contractor for Northampton), and Kier (the Council’s highways service partner). It has also been supported by housing providers, local charities and volunteer groups – with the event being the first in a series of planned actions to engage with the local community and improve the local environment. Throughout the day, partners engaged with residents to: Clear litter, fly-tipping and graffiti Share information on waste and recycling arrangements Promote ways to report a range of issues quickly and easily Encourage community pride and responsibility Signpost residents to the Thriving Communities Hub for ongoing support and resources. Enforcement action was also taken on the day where appropriate, following intelligence on unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and a series of parking issues were addressed by traffic wardens. "This first Day of Action shows what’s possible when communities and partners come together with a shared goal, to make our areas cleaner, safer and stronger. We’re proud to support residents in The Mounts and will continue working with local groups and partners to build thriving communities. “Tackling environmental crimes and anti-social behaviour is a key priority for the Council and this is one of a series of events and wider actions planned in for both the Mounts and other areas across West Northants and I’d like to thank all those involved.” Cllr Nigel Stansfield, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Recycling and Waste The initiative is part of a wider programme of community engagement and environmental enforcement taking place in West Northamptonshire. By working closely with residents and partners, the Council aims to build long-term solutions that improve quality of life and protect public spaces. For more information on how to get involved or report issues in your area, visit the Thriving Communities Hub. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Help us shape the future of our Northampton Town Centre
August 14, 2025
Help us shape the future of our Northampton Town Centre
14 August 2025 There’s still time to make your voice heard as the public consultation on the draft Town Centre Masterplan has been extended until Monday 25 August, giving even more residents, businesses, and community groups the chance to share their views. The survey has been promoted far and wide across digital and offline channels. So far, over 1,600 people have taken part, a 250% increase compared to the previous masterplan consultation in 2019. 84% of respondents are new to the conversation, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas. Feedback has come from 1200 unique postcodes covering NN1-NN18, showing strong engagement from across West Northamptonshire. We’ve heard from people under 18 up to over 75 years, with a balanced mix of voices contributing to the conversation. And with 540 people signing up for updates, it’s clear that interest in Northampton’s regeneration is growing. Here’s how people have been getting involved: 200+ attendees at our drop-in event at the Grosvenor Centre Six fully booked virtual sessions with the project team What are people saying? Retail & Hospitality – a better mix of shops, cafés and restaurants Safety & Accessibility – cleaner, safer and more welcoming spaces Community & Culture – more events, venues and inclusive spaces Design & Heritage – preserving Northampton’s historic character Transport & Connectivity – improved walking, cycling and public transport Areas like Greyfriars, Horse Market and the Nene Riverside have been highlighted for improvement, while many have expressed pride in our shoe-making heritage, historic architecture, and vibrant arts and sports culture. Visit www.northamptonforward.com and complete the short survey. It only takes a few minutes and your input could help shape Northampton for generations to come. More details can also be found on the Council's website and social media channels. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
West Northamptonshire Council Chief Executive announces plans to leave authority later this year
August 14, 2025
West Northamptonshire Council Chief Executive announces plans to leave authority later this year
14 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council’s Chief Executive Anna Earnshaw has announced she will be leaving the authority later this year. Leader of the Council, Cllr Mark Arnull, today paid special tribute to Anna, who has been the unitary council’s chief executive since its creation four years ago, as “one of a kind” in local government who has achieved so much for public services and communities. Anna, whose career in local government spans 37 years across a broad range of services in both the public and private sector roles, is intending to pursue new opportunities within the sector and spend more time with her family, having successfully established and led WNC through its formative years as the country’s fifth largest unitary council. Anna was appointed as WNC’s first chief executive in 2021 amid major local government reorganisation (LGR) in Northamptonshire, playing an integral role in bringing together the services of the county’s eight previous local authorities into the successful creation of the two new unitary councils alongside the countywide covid response. Her time in the role has seen the council deliver over £115 million of savings alongside many service improvements, with a recent independent peer review highlighting the ‘strong positive start’ of the young unitary authority with ‘much achieved at pace’, its positive culture and ‘tangible upbeat energy’. It has been an absolute privilege serving West Northamptonshire’s communities and I’m extremely proud of everything we have achieved together. When we embarked on our journey as a new unitary council four years ago it really was a fresh start for everyone, and a chance to do public services differently and better across our area. There have been many challenges along the way but also real opportunities too and as both a local resident and public servant I have relished the role I’ve played in helping to make a difference. Having made my decision to leave on a personal level some time ago, it was important for me to support our new administration through their first months in office and from my perspective they have established themselves as professional and committed to helping their communities. In the coming months I will work closely with them as they shape the council’s future priorities and budget proposals and prepare transitional arrangements. It has been a pleasure to work with such committed, dedicated and professional council colleagues who have worked so hard over the years, and I’d like to thank them all for their support. That’s what’s made my decision to leave so difficult, but the time is now right personally for me to do new things. Anna Earnshaw, West Northamptonshire Council’s Chief Executive Anna really is one of kind in local government and an excellent, dedicated public servant who has achieved so much for services and residents in West Northants and will be greatly missed. Although I am saddened by her decision to leave, I fully understand her reasons for doing so and I am grateful for all the experience, support and guidance she has given to myself and the Cabinet since we came into office. She really has been instrumental in helping us get straight down to business for our residents and already achieve so much in our first 100 days. Anna leaves a strong legacy of a young and ambitious council with firm foundations and positive culture which I am in no doubt will continue to evolve and help its communities to thrive in the years ahead. Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council Anna joined Northamptonshire County Council in 2016 working with health in her first year before becoming the Director of Adult Social Services (DASS). She later went on to become the Deputy Chief Executive at the County Council playing a vital role in helping bring the Council back onto a stable financial footing ahead of LGR, including delivering £40m of savings in adult social care in the authority’s last 2 years and leading on the County COVID response, before becoming the chief executive of the new Unitary . Anna is also a board member of the ICB in Northamptonshire and has worked closely with health colleagues across the system and region to transform services and create better integrated care, especially in the community and early intervention space and in the nationally acclaimed ageing well programme. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Northamptonshire residents urged to remain vigilant during hot weather – and avoid risk of starting fires
August 14, 2025
Northamptonshire residents urged to remain vigilant during hot weather – and avoid risk of starting fires
With the weather set to top 25 degrees or more over the next few days in Northamptonshire – the Fire Service is reminding residents to remain vigilant as the risk of fire increases. The Fire Severity Index (FSI), which predicts how severe a wildfire could become if one were to ignite, is at ‘very high’ level. This means if a fire was to ignite, it could spread quickly. With such dry conditions, any small fire can become a much bigger fire. To try and prevent such fires happening in your area, please follow this advice: Throw cigarettes away responsibly Take any litter home, as glass can magnify sunlight and start fires Avoid using barbecues and disposable grills in open areas, and when using at home, keep them well clear of trees, shrubs, sheds and other flammable items Avoid having bonfires Park vehicles on hard surfaces, not on dry grass as hot exhausts can ignite fires The Fire Service would also urge parents and guardians to ensure young people are aware of the risks of starting fires, however small, in the current conditions. Andy Evans, of the joint Fire and Police Arson Task Force, said: “We work hard in schools and communities to educate people and raise awareness not only of the dangers of fire setting, but the potential impact on a young person’s future and job prospects if they have a criminal record for arson. “Our fire crews being called to deliberately lit fires also affects our ability to respond to more serious and possibly life-threatening incidents such as house fires or road traffic accidents. “So we would ask parents and guardians to make sure their children are aware of the risks that setting a fire, no matter how small, could pose – and the impact it could have.” If you see a fire, call 999. If you have information about deliberate fires, you can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Crews from The Mounts Fire Station temporarily stationed at Mereway Fire Station while essential work takes place
August 14, 2025
Crews from The Mounts Fire Station temporarily stationed at Mereway Fire Station while essential work takes place
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service crews from The Mounts Station in Northampton will be temporarily relocated to Mereway Fire Station while The Mounts is closed for essential work. The station, which is the oldest in Northamptonshire, needs urgent electrical upgrades that cannot be carried out safely while the crews are operating from the building. The work is due to start on the August 18, 2025 , and is expected to take 4 weeks . The number of fire crews covering Northampton will not be affected and The Mounts crews will be responding from Mereway. The firefighters will also still be conducting their usual prevention and community activities and will remain visible in the area. While the work at The Mounts is underway, additional security measures will be in place at the building, including Neighbourhood Police patrols from officers based at neighbouring Campbell Square Police Station. Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Area Manager for Response Mick Berry said: “We understand that people love to see their fire crews in their usual place, and we want to reassure the public that there will be no reduction in the number of crews covering the Northampton area, we are still able to respond as usual. “This is urgent and necessary work that we cannot complete safely with our staff still in the building, so I am pleased that we have the right plans in place to relocate our crews and ensure that Northampton is covered and protected as usual.”
Trading Standards joins forces with East Midlands colleagues to crackdown on unsafe cosmetic products
August 12, 2025
Trading Standards joins forces with East Midlands colleagues to crackdown on unsafe cosmetic products
12 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council’s Trading Standards service recently collaborated with colleagues from across the East Midlands on a project to check the safety on a range of cosmetic products. As part of the initiative, Trading Standards officers examined 198 cosmetic products from a range of retailers across the East Midlands area. 78% of these products were found to be non-compliant with UK cosmetic safety regulations. Other key findings included: 29% of the 35 products screen tested from national retailers were non-compliant 88% of the 163 products screen tested from other trader types were non-compliant 44% of products did not bear the responsible person details 71% of products required some follow up work 28% of products had restricted/banned ingredients 35% of products were seized by officers (none of these were from national traders) Issues identified included missing information such as details of the responsible person, batch code, minimum durability date, ingredients or precautions if required. Products were found containing banned and restricted ingredients and 35% of product lines examined by officers were seized, with 71% requiring follow up action of some sort including referral to other local authorities. Each local authority focused on local online sellers and West Northamptonshire Trading Standards sampled three UV gel nail polishes and one tooth whitening product. The tooth whitening gel was compliant. The issues with the nail gel polishes centred around key information omitted from labelling. Businesses were provided with advice to ensure compliance in the future. Consumers are reminded to: Always read the label – check for the UK/EU responsible person’s name and address Follow instructions and warnings Buy from reputable retailers and avoid products labelled “for professional use only” "The safety of consumers is a top priority, and this joint initiative shows just how widespread non-compliance can be in the cosmetics market. With so many products failing to meet basic safety standards, it’s vital that we continue to work with our regional partners to protect the public and support businesses in meeting their legal responsibilities. I encourage residents to stay informed, read labels carefully, and report any concerns they may have." Cllr Andrew Last, WNC’s Cabinet Member for HR, Corporate and Regulatory Services If you have concerns about a cosmetic product, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 133. Businesses can seek advice from Trading Standards and find guidance online via the Business Companion or Government websites. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Local venues invited to free ‘Ask for Angela’ training
August 13, 2025
Local venues invited to free ‘Ask for Angela’ training
13 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) are inviting local venues to an online training session on the ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme to help staff feel equipped in recognising and responding to vulnerability. Taking place on 20 August, 10am to 12noon, the online training is open to staff working in bars, pubs, restaurants and other late night venues across West Northamptonshire to give advice on safe intervention techniques to help identify and provide support when it is needed most. With venues such as; The Optimist, O'Neills, Jekyll & Hyde, Replay, NB’s, Fiddlers, The King Billy Music Bar, Wig & Pen, The Althorpe Inn and Elysium already signed up to the training, the Council are calling on other venues to sign up to help create a safer place for local residents and those that visit. The ‘Ask Angela’ scheme works by training staff in vulnerability management and what to do when someone Asks for Angela. The aim is for the trained member of staff to understand the person asking is in need of help and support and will be able to respond in an appropriate, discreet way to help keep their customers safe. Venues that register for the scheme will also receive free access to training opportunities, resources and posters to support staff, as well as an official ‘Ask for Angela’ window sticker to display participation and ongoing support from the Council’s Community Safety team. If a venue is already operating the scheme, please register it with the Council via the form here to ensure you have access to all the necessary materials and training. “This training is really important both for our venues to feel confident in responding and intervening in situations, as well as for local residents and those that visit us to feel safe and supported in when they visit. “This training provides a great opportunity to raise awareness of this important initiative and I really hope venues take this up by booking onto the session. We are working closely with our partners to help make West Northamptonshire a place where people feel safe and thrive and this is a key part of supporting this.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at WNC Funded in partnership with WNC and Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone, this accredited training is part of an ongoing commitment from organisations in West Northamptonshire in its commitment to nighttime safety and makes up an important part of the internationally recognised Purple Flag accreditation , which celebrates excellence in managing the nighttime economy. This award reflects our ongoing efforts to ensure the town centre remains safe, vibrant, and welcoming after dark. “I want women in this county to be safe, and able to live their lives without the fear of crime. There are steps that every organisation can take to show that they take the safety of women seriously. This training for staff in the nighttime economy is a good example of how partners from all organisations are working together to create safer spaces for women, which will make whole communities safer.” Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone For more information on the training session and how to get involved, visit the Eventbrite page . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
West Northamptonshire to commemorate 80th Anniversary of VJ Day
August 12, 2025
West Northamptonshire to commemorate 80th Anniversary of VJ Day
12 August 2025 Communities across West Northamptonshire are encouraged to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) on Friday 15 August 2025. While VE Day (Victory in Europe) marked the end of the war in Europe in May 1945, many thousands of Armed Forces personnel were still engaged in fighting in the Far East. VJ Day marks the day Japan surrendered, on 15 August 1945, bringing the Second World War to a final close. To honour the occasion, residents are encouraged to come together to mark VJ Day in a number of ways, including: Organising a street party, picnic or social gathering Hosting commemorative events in community centres or places of worship Attending or arranging a local remembrance service Displaying flags, bunting, or window displays in tribute to veterans Communities wishing to hold an event in a public space or close a road for a street party may need to apply for a temporary road closure . Organisers of larger events are also urged to contact West Northamptonshire Council to ensure any necessary arrangements around licensing, safety and traffic management are in place. "VJ Day marks a hugely significant moment in our shared history - the final end of the Second World War. It is a time to remember the courage and sacrifice of all those who served, particularly those who fought in the Far East under extremely harsh conditions. I encourage communities across West Northamptonshire to come together in tribute, reflection and remembrance." West Northamptonshire Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Trefor Hughes To mark the occasion, a national two-minute silence will take place at 12 noon on Friday 15 August, with everyone invited to take part. The official national tribute will be held at the National Memorial Arboretum, with coverage available to watch live on BBC One and iPlayer. Further information is available via the BBC and National Memorial Arboretum websites . As part of wider commemorations, the Imperial War Museum continues to invite people to take part in its Letters to Loved Ones project – a moving tribute that collects and shares real letters exchanged between families and servicemen during the Second World War. You can read these personal reflections or submit your own on the official VE/VJ Day website . People of all ages are also being encouraged to craft origami paper cranes, which have become a global symbol of peace. The crane is especially significant in Hiroshima, one of the cities devastated by nuclear attack during the war, where it has come to represent healing, hope, and remembrance. The Imperial War Museum has shared a simple paper crane tutorial, ideal as a summer activity at home or with children. On this 80th anniversary of VJ Day, we encourage everyone to come together to honour the veterans, remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and reflect on the legacy of the Second World War generation. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
West Northamptonshire to mark Ukrainian Independence Day
August 13, 2025
West Northamptonshire to mark Ukrainian Independence Day
13 August 2025 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 22 August , marking 34 years since Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The ceremony will take place at 11am in the Great Hall at the Guildhall on St Giles’ Square in Northampton and will be attended by the Vice Chairman of the Council, Cllr Peter York and HM Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, James Saunders Watson as well as representatives from the Ukrainian community. This year, students at St Mary’s Ukrainian School have submitted artwork that represents “Drawing what makes me free” which will be shown as part of an exhibition at the event. All artwork will be judged on the day with winners being announced as part of the ceremony. 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. “Ukrainian Independence Day is a powerful reminder of the courage and perseverance shown by Ukrainian families everywhere, both in our local area and around the world. This event recognises this important historic day which celebrates the independence for Ukrainian families. “The event is set to be a celebration with poetry, music, singalongs and speeches from Ukrainian residents and an art exhibition showing artwork created by children and young people, so it will really be a great interactive event for all to get in involved.” Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at WNC There is no need to book, the invite is open to all to join in such important celebrations. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
A congratulations messages to students who have received their A-Level results today!
August 14, 2025
A congratulations messages to students who have received their A-Level results today!
14 August 2025 Today, Thursday 14 August 2025, marks an important milestone for students across West Northamptonshire as they receive their A-Level results. Whether you're celebrating success or exploring new paths, this is a day to reflect on your achievements and look ahead to exciting opportunities. “To every student opening their A-Level results today, a huge well done and I hope you are pleased with your results. “A-Levels are a real challenge and you should be incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved. Whether your next step is university, an apprenticeship or entering the world of work, today is the beginning of a new chapter. “If things didn’t go quite as planned, please don’t worry - there are plenty of options and support available. UCAS has great advice on the clearing process and apprenticeships offer a brilliant route to gain skills and earn while you learn. “We also have a wide range of resources on the Council’s website, from career guidance and job listings to wellbeing support. Whatever your journey looks like, we’re here to help. “Congratulations again to all of you and I wish you all the best for your next step.” Councillor Kathryn Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at WNC For more information and support, visit West Northamptonshire Council’s website . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Hundreds enjoy Corby Fire Station open day – with £1,500 raised for charity
August 12, 2025
Hundreds enjoy Corby Fire Station open day – with £1,500 raised for charity
More than £1,500 has been raised for charity following a successful Open Day at Corby Fire Station this weekend. Hundreds of people visited the station on Saturday (August 9) to enjoy family activities and see firefighters in action during a live demonstration. Young people also had the opportunity to look around a fire engine, squirt water from some of the hoses and be shown some of the equipment that firefighters use when they attend an incident. Other attractions to keep guests entertained included a demonstration of a rescue from height featuring popular fire mascot Welephant, an RAF Battle of Britain flyover, a bouncy castle, a drag car static display, charity raffle and football penalty shootout. The Open Day took place during the ongoing Safer Streets Summer campaign, organised by the Home Office and being led locally by Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone – in partnership with Fire and Rescue, Police and other local and community organisations. All profits from the Open Day are being donated to The Fire Fighters Charity, which supports current and former members of the Fire Service who may be suffering from mental, physical or social issues. Station Manager Tony Evans said: “We want to thank the community of Corby for turning up in such fantastic numbers to support our Open Day on Saturday. “Whenever we open our gates, it gives us a fantastic opportunity to show our residents how we work to respond to incidents – and to give out important safety advice to help keep themselves and their families safe. “It’s also great to raise money for The Fire Fighters Charity, who play a vital role nationally in helping to support firefighters and their families at the most difficult times. “I want to thank Corby Blue Watch for their hard work and effort in organising this Open Day and making it as successful as it was. We hope everyone who attended enjoyed the day.” The Corby crew and its 44 firefighters cover a large patch in the north of the county, putting out fires and rescuing people. They also make sure they get out and about in the community as much as they can – carrying out fire safety checks for vulnerable residents and visiting nursing homes, schools and summer camps to give out prevention advice.
Views sought on a plan to improve walking, wheeling and cycling routes in Northampton
August 11, 2025
Views sought on a plan to improve walking, wheeling and cycling routes in Northampton
11 August 2025 Residents, businesses, and stakeholders are being encouraged to share their views on the draft Northampton Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) - a long-term strategy to improve walking, wheeling, cycling, and scooting across the town. This plan outlines how West Northamptonshire Council aims to make active travel safer and more accessible over the next decade and beyond. It builds on the LCWIPs already developed for Brackley, Daventry, and Towcester and marks the next step in creating a connected, inclusive, and sustainable transport network across the area. The draft LCWIP identifies key routes and areas for improvement, supported by technical assessments and design recommendations. It’s an early-stage framework to help guide future investment and development. “We want to make it easier, safer, and more enjoyable for people to walk, wheel and cycle around Northampton. This plan builds on those already in place in other areas and aims to help shape a healthier, more connected town. We’re keen to hear from residents, businesses, community groups and stakeholders to help us get it right.” Cllr Richard Butler, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport People can have their say by 5 October, via the Council’s Consultation Hub . Following the consultation, all feedback will be reviewed and used to finalise the plan. Further engagement and feasibility work will follow. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Sandy Lane Relief Road opens to motorists
August 12, 2025
Sandy Lane Relief Road opens to motorists
Highways and transport 12 August 2025 The final stretch of a much-anticipated relief road to ease congestion and improve connectivity across Northampton has opened to motorists. Following the completion of the southern section of the Sandy Lane Relief Road to the A4500 junction, West Northamptonshire Council’s highways partner Kier conducted essential technical works, quality and safety inspections during June and July to ensure it is ready for vehicles. These are now complete, allowing the road to open to motorists today (Tuesday, 12 August), and providing relief to local communities to the north and west of Northampton including Duston and Harpole. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Update on Thursday’s fire at waste management centre in Wellingborough
August 10, 2025
Update on Thursday’s fire at waste management centre in Wellingborough
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of a fire at a waste management centre on Finedon Road Industrial Estate in Wellingborough shortly before 12:30pm yesterday (August 7). Approximately 100 tonnes of recycling waste was on fire, and at its height 5 crews and a water bowser were in attendance putting it out. By 8:30pm the fire had been extinguished. Crews have intermittently checked the fire throughout the night and this morning for any remaining hotspots to ensure that is safe, and the scene has now been handed back to the site owners. The fire was believed to have started accidentally. It is thought likely to be caused by a lithium-ion battery, but due to the severity of the fire damage it cannot be determined exactly what the cause of the initial ignition was. However, batteries that aren’t disposed of correctly do pose a fire risk, and we would ask the public to please follow their local authority guidance on how to safely dispose of batteries. For North Northamptonshire: Battery disposal | North Northamptonshire Council For West Northamptonshire: Battery disposal | West Northamptonshire Council Note to editors: This site that this incident was located was not council owned.
More time to have your say on the future vision for Northampton Town Centre
August 08, 2025
More time to have your say on the future vision for Northampton Town Centre
08 August 2025 Residents, businesses, and community groups are invited to join the more than 1,300 people who have already shared their views in the ongoing consultation on the draft Town Centre Masterplan, which has now been extended until Monday 25 August. This extension gives even more people the chance to influence how the town centre evolves over the next 15 years. Your feedback is helping shape key priorities such as: Retail and Hospitality – what kind of shops, cafés and restaurants do you want to see? Business and Economy – how can we support local enterprise and attract new businesses? Safety and Accessibility – what would make the town centre feel safer and more welcoming? Community and Culture – what events, spaces or venues would bring people together? Design and Heritage – how should we preserve and enhance our historic buildings? Transport and Connectivity – what improvements are needed for walking, cycling and public transport? So far, respondents have told us that Greyfriars and Horse Market are the areas most in need of improvement, followed by the Nene Riverside. Many have expressed a desire to see these spaces revitalised to better reflect the town’s potential. When asked what makes you proud of Northampton, the most common responses have celebrated our rich history, especially our beautiful historic buildings and renowned shoe-making heritage. People have also highlighted pride in our vibrant arts and cultural scene, and the achievements of our local sports teams. All of our key priorities matter to you. You’ve told us you want Northampton to be: A distinctive retail and leisure destination Easier and safer to walk and cycle around Better at showcasing its heritage and identity To find out more and share your views, visit www.northamptonforward.com and complete the short survey. You can also speak to the team in person at a drop-in event at the Grosvenor Centre (Ground Floor, outside River Island) on Saturday 9 August between 10am – 4pm. “Over 1,300 people have already taken the time to share their views, and we’re extending the consultation to Monday 25 August to ensure even more voices are heard. This is a pivotal moment for Northampton, and your input can directly shape the future of our town centre. Whether you live, work or spend time here, we want to hear from you. Don’t miss this opportunity to influence real change, complete the survey today.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Rugby fever to sweep West Northants with free family festival in Abington Park
August 08, 2025
Rugby fever to sweep West Northants with free family festival in Abington Park
08 August 2025 Northampton is set to celebrate the arrival of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in style with RugbyFest - a free, family-friendly festival taking place in Abington Park on Friday 22 August 2025, from 2pm to 7pm. Hosted by Northampton Saints and Loughborough Lightning in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), the carnival-themed event will take place in the heart of one of the town’s most loved green spaces. RugbyFest promises an action-packed afternoon and evening of entertainment, games, music, and celebration - culminating in a big-screen showing of the tournament’s opening match: England vs. USA. Whether you're a lifelong rugby fan or simply looking for an exciting day out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, including: Rugby skills and sessions with Northampton Saints and Loughborough Lightning players Live music and performances throughout the day Silent disco to keep the energy high Art workshops and creative zones for young people Inflatable rugby games, family activities and fun challenges Admission is free, and the event is open to all ages. “We’re incredibly excited to welcome the Women’s Rugby World Cup to West Northamptonshire and RugbyFest is the perfect way to kick off the celebrations. “This is a brilliant opportunity for families, fans and rugby first-timers to come together and enjoy free activities, live entertainment and the buzz of world-class sport right here in the beautiful Abington Park. We invite everyone to come down, get involved, and be part of this unforgettable moment for our area!” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader of WNC and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure RugbyFest is part of a wider programme of events celebrating Northamptonshire’s role in the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. It’s the perfect opportunity to get behind the teams, try something new, and experience the community spirit the tournament is already inspiring across the region. “The Women’s Rugby World Cup coming to Northampton for six matches is an unbelievable opportunity for us to grow the game and create a lasting legacy for the sport in the county too. “Events like RugbyFest will only help to grow excitement levels in the World Cup and get people involved in women’s rugby, whether that is playing or spectating. We’re really looking forward to seeing as many people as possible at Abington Park.” Conor Fleming, Northampton Saints Community and Women’s Rugby Director The event is proudly supported by partners Discover Northamptonshire, Muse, and Zone Developments. Find our more information about the Women’s Rugby World Cup including events and activities, local sports clubs, and travel details. . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
New IT suite opens at Russell House to empower care leavers in West Northamptonshire
August 07, 2025
New IT suite opens at Russell House to empower care leavers in West Northamptonshire
07 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council and Northamptonshire Children’s Trust are proud to announce the opening of a brand-new IT suite at Russell House, the central hub for the Care Leavers service. This vital addition will provide care leavers with enhanced access to digital resources, supporting their continued education, skills development, and employment opportunities. Funded through the Council’s People and Skills programme from central government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the IT suite is a significant step forward in addressing key challenges faced by care leavers. The new IT suite will offer care leavers a dedicated space to pursue further study, gain additional qualifications and explore career pathways. This project reflects a broader commitment to ensure that all young people, regardless of background, have the tools and support they need to thrive and goes further to strengthen our local offer to care leavers in West Northamptonshire and beyond. “Russell House’s new IT suite is a really important addition to our offer to care leavers. It gives them access to the tools they need to learn, grow, and prepare for their futures. We have done a lot of work with employers in the local area to grow opportunities for care leavers and now we can support care leavers into those roles through access to digital resources and training. We are very grateful for the support from our partners at West Northamptonshire Council for being part of this important project. The opening of this suite will provide a space that will empower and inspire young people for year to come” Colin Foster, Chief Executive of Northamptonshire Children’s Trust “The IT suite at Russell House is a fantastic investment in the futures of our care leavers. It will help improve their access to crucial resources such as online learning and research, as well as employment and CV support to help unlock opportunity for them to thrive. This is a great resource and I am really honoured to be invited to its opening together with our care leavers and partners, for something that will make a real difference.” Cllr Kathryn Ann Shaw, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at West Northants Council “This is a great resource for our young care leavers, helping to provide easier access to crucial opportunities that will support their learning, skills-building and readiness for the world of work. We are committed to ensuring our care leavers have the right opportunities, as we continue to strengthen our support through the development of our corporate parenting strategy.” Melanie Barnett, Director of Children’s Services at West Northamptonshire Council Russell House continues to be a cornerstone of support for care leavers in West Northamptonshire and the wider county, and the new IT suite reinforces its role as a place of opportunity, growth, and empowerment providing our care leavers and care experienced young people to prepare themselves to enter the next chapter of their lives. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Statement from Council Leader, Cllr Mark Arnull
August 07, 2025
Statement from Council Leader, Cllr Mark Arnull
Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council, said: “We know the Home Office’s use of three hotels in West Northants for asylum accommodation is causing concerns for residents for a number of reasons, particularly with recent events in the news. “Although the Council has no say in the decision to use them, we have always been clear with the Government that the locations are highly unsuitable and place an unreasonable and unsustainable strain on our already-stretched local services. “Ensuring we support our residents, listen and act on their concerns is the top priority for us, and we will meet and liaise with community members, including parish councils and ward members as they highlight issues to us. We continue to work closely with police colleagues to understand the accuracy and context as issues and concerns are raised. It’s vital that real issues are acted upon, but it’s equally as important that we quash rumours where they’re unfounded. “We have regular multi-agency meetings with partners including the police, health and safeguarding leads to discuss and monitor emerging issues and doing this helps us to address community concerns and keep them updated. “Should the Government choose to stop using hotels for asylum seekers, it remains to be seen how their future housing and support needs will be met. It is possible that this would place an even greater burden on us and local partners if that involves the use of private or affordable rented accommodation which is already under huge pressure in this area. “We will continue to take a strong stance in putting these views to the Home Office on behalf of all our residents and will scrutinise and challenge the introduction of further housing and asylum legislation we believe will be detrimental to our communities.”
Local youth groups encouraged to apply for new funding to support young people in West Northamptonshire
August 06, 2025
Local youth groups encouraged to apply for new funding to support young people in West Northamptonshire
06 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council is encouraging local youth organisations to apply for money from a new national funding pot available over the next three months. This funding is designed to support additional hours of youth work in areas with higher rates of anti-social behaviour, helping to improve the range of opportunities available to young people, offering them more places to go and positive things to do. Grants of between £30,000 and £100,000 are available to eligible organisations operating or supporting designated areas across West Northamptonshire. A postcode checker is available to confirm eligibility. The funding has been made available through the Million Hours Fund, a joint initiative from The National Lottery Community Fund and Department for Culture, Media and Sport, to help young people by increasing access to safe, structured and engaging activities which focus on; improving emotional wellbeing, develop life and practical skills and build trusted relationships. Funded projects must: Benefit young people aged 10 to 18, or up to 25 for those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) Engage effectively with young people who may be at risk of involvement in anti-social behaviour Deliver additional hours of youth work beyond what is currently offered Involve young people in shaping the services and activities provided Offer open access youth work, welcoming a wide range of participants Be led by trusted adults, such as qualified youth workers, youth support workers, or experienced volunteers Organisations including voluntary and community organisations, schools, community interest companies (CICs), charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs) and statutory bodies are encouraged to apply to help build on and improve the offer available to young people. “We know how vital it is to provide young people with safe, engaging spaces where they feel supported and inspired. This is a great opportunity for local youth organisations to expand their reach and impact, whether that’s through new activities, extended hours or revised support offers. “I really encourage youth groups who are based in or support areas identified in the postcode checker above to apply for this funding, to increase our offer locally for young people, especially in areas where they need it most.” Cllr Thomas Manning, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at WNC This funding is an opportunity to build on and strengthen the support available to young people. Applications are now open and must be submitted by 12 noon on Wednesday 22 October 2025. Organisations are encouraged to apply as soon as they are ready, in case the fund closes early if application volumes exceed expectations. For more information on the funding available and how to apply please visit: Million Hours Fund | The National Lottery Community Fund . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Final stage of Sandy Lane Relief Road set to open
August 06, 2025
Final stage of Sandy Lane Relief Road set to open
06 August 2025 The final stretch of a much-anticipated relief road to ease congestion and improve connectivity across Northampton will open to motorists next week. Following the completion of the southern section of the Sandy Lane Relief Road to the A4500 junction, West Northamptonshire Council’s highways partner Kier has been conducting essential technical works, quality and safety inspections during June and July to ensure it is ready for vehicles. This final section of the road will now open to motorists from next Tuesday (12 August), providing better relief to local communities to the north and west of Northampton including Duston and Harpole. "It’s great news that we’ve managed to get the final stage of the Sandy Lane Relief Road over the line and open to the public ahead of the busy autumn season. "Thanks to partnership working with Homes England, Miller Homes, Vistry Homes and Kier Transportation, the road will reduce traffic and provide better connectivity, particularly to those in the Harpole and Duston area. "As with all major projects like this, it was important that after its completion we carried out all the necessary safety audits and remedial works before opening it to the public. I’d like to thank motorists for their patience and understanding whilst the work took place and hope the new road improves their journeys. We are committed to improving local roads and will continue to move forward projects that will benefit people for years to come." Cllr Richard Butler, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport "Working closely with West Northamptonshire Council, we're pleased to deliver part of this important scheme which enhances connectivity across the region. This will be an important link to the North and West of the county, and we look forward to seeing how the route will improve journeys and have a positive impact across the community." Peter Ingram, Contracts Director at Kier Transportation Residents can keep up to date with highways projects across the area on our Major Projects page. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Demolition progresses at St James Bus Depot as regeneration plans advance
August 05, 2025
Demolition progresses at St James Bus Depot as regeneration plans advance
05 August 2025 West Northamptonshire Council’s ambitious regeneration of the former St James Bus Depot in Northampton is well underway, with significant progress made on the enabling works that will pave the way for over 70 much-needed family homes. As of late July 2025, demolition works are approximately 70% complete, marking a major milestone in transforming the long-vacant 4.5-acre brownfield site into a vibrant new neighbourhood. The internal strip-out of the buildings is also 70% complete, while asbestos sheet roof removal has reached 70%. Work on the removal of notifiable asbestos, a critical and carefully managed process which takes considerable time, is currently 30% complete. These works are being carried out by Armac Demolition, appointed by the Council following a competitive procurement process. The project is supported by £1.368 million in funding from the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund, which is enabling essential remediation and site preparation. The regeneration will retain and sensitively restore the Grade II listed Transport Office, preserving key elements of Northampton’s transport heritage. Where feasible, original facades of the early 1900s tram depot will also be retained, maintaining a strong link to the town’s past. "The regeneration of St James Depot is progressing well and remains a key part of our vision to create high-quality homes while recognising Northampton’s unique heritage. We’re pleased with the pace of the enabling works and look forward to the next phase of this exciting project." Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure The Council will soon begin the process of selecting a development partner to bring forward the full scheme, which will align with the emerging West Northamptonshire Local Plan and include supporting infrastructure such as schools and healthcare services. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Northampton Market Square to host official Women’s Rugby World Cup Fan Zone this summer
August 01, 2025
Northampton Market Square to host official Women’s Rugby World Cup Fan Zone this summer
01 August 2025 Northampton Market Square is set to host an exciting line-up of free events, entertainment, and live match screenings this summer as part of the official Women’s Rugby World Cup Fan Zone. From cutting-edge technology and family fun to music, arts and festival vibes, each Fan Zone event will be themed to celebrate the spirit of the tournament and bring the local community together across four key dates. Whether you're a rugby fan or simply looking for free entertainment in the heart of town, the Northampton Fan Zone is not to be missed. “Hosting the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Fan Zone right here in Northampton Market Square is a brilliant opportunity to showcase the pride, creativity and community spirit that defines West Northamptonshire. “We’ve worked hard to create four exciting themed events that offer something for everyone and compliment our existing market and town centre offer - whether you’re into cutting-edge tech, live music, arts and culture, or just looking for a fun family day out. This is about more than just rugby; it’s a chance to celebrate together, support the tournament, and showcase our wonderful area to a global audience.” Cllr James Petter, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure Fan Zone dates Sunday 24 August - Innovation & Technology Step into the future with a day full of interactive tech experiences for all ages: Explore Virtual Reality: try free VR games and test your speed on twin racing simulator pods and compete on the leaderboard Meet and have a photo with a giant walking robot plus have your picture drawn by an iPad caricaturist Creative activities: design your own flag with Lemon Pop and take part in face painting and rugby activities Northampton Saints and Loughborough Lightning presence Live match screenings: Ireland vs Japan, South Africa vs Brazil Plus much more! Saturday 30 August - Festival Vibes A lively, colourful celebration filled with music, dance, and creative flair: Silent Disco: choose your beat with three music channels in a party tent Live Stage with BBC Introducing and walk-to-stadium music route featuring local performers Interactive mural & eco crafts: help colour in a rugby-themed mural and make festival headbands and sound wands with Wild Tribe Irish Dancers, magicians, stilt walkers, jugglers and Samoan weaving workshops Northampton Saints and Loughborough Lightning presence Live match screenings: Canada vs Wales, Scotland vs Fiji, England vs Samoa Plus much more! Sunday 31 August - Family Fun A fun-packed day for the whole family, with plenty of things to see and do: Inflatable activities including a bouncy castle, Last Man Standing, surfing simulator, rodeo rugby ball, and a giant maze Basketball challenges with Northants Basketball Make & take craft: paint your own canvas to celebrate the tournament Giant dinosaur, Bubblologist, and Stilt Walkers roaming the square Spanish dance workshop and face painting Northampton Saints and Loughborough Lightning presence Live match screenings: Ireland vs Spain, New Zealand vs Japan, Italy vs South Africa Plus much more! Sunday 7 September - Music, Art & Culture A creative celebration of local talent and global inspiration: Northampton Music Festival takeover with live performances throughout the day Make & take activity: design your own frisbee with Lemon Pop MMAP: poetry and urban art from a local creative artist Giant games and face painting Northampton Saints and Loughborough Lightning presence Live match screenings: all matches will be shown (on mute during performances) Plus much more! The event is proudly supported by partners Discover Northamptonshire, Muse, and Zone Developments. Find out more about the tournament on the council’s WRWC webpage . Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Kingsthorpe Grove primary becomes first school in West Northants to earn Food for Life Bronze Award
August 01, 2025
Kingsthorpe Grove primary becomes first school in West Northants to earn Food for Life Bronze Award
01 August 2025 Kingsthorpe Grove Primary School has proudly become the first school in West Northamptonshire to receive the prestigious Food for Life Bronze Award, a national recognition that celebrates schools championing healthier food culture, education, and lunchtime experiences. The award is part of West Northamptonshire Council’s (WNC) Healthy Schools initiative. The accolade was presented by WNC's Director of Public Health during the launch of the West Northants Sustainable Food Network, held at the University of Northampton. Staff and students from Kingsthorpe Grove were warmly welcomed as they shared their inspiring journey to achieving the award. Two teachers and three student Lunchtime Ambassadors took to the stage to share their experiences. They spoke passionately about their roles in: Developing school gardening and cooking initiatives Updating the school’s food policy Introducing changes to the lunch service that ensure all children enjoy a healthier, more inclusive dining experience. This milestone reflects the broader impact of the Food for Life programme, commissioned by West Northamptonshire Council’s Public Health team to support schools in areas where data shows the greatest need for change in food culture. The improvements at Kingsthorpe Grove also pave the way for the school’s caterer to pursue the Food for Life Served Here certification, an endorsement of higher food quality standards, including freshly prepared meals, no harmful additives, and improved animal welfare. Adding to their success, the school has also achieved the Healthy Schools Silver Award, demonstrating a holistic and sustained commitment to student wellbeing. "This is a fantastic example of what schools can achieve when food, health, and education come together in a truly integrated way. The dedication and determination shown by Kingsthorpe Grove’s staff and students is inspiring. Not only are they creating a healthier school environment, but they’re also empowering pupils and their families to make positive lifestyle choices that extend beyond the classroom. The whole-school approach nurtures wellbeing, builds community, and sets a powerful example for others to follow.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services. Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Grant scheme applications now open for community organisations to provide Welcoming Spaces for residents
July 29, 2025
Grant scheme applications now open for community organisations to provide Welcoming Spaces for residents
29 July 2025 Community organisations are now able to apply for vital funds via West Northamptonshire Council as applications open for the Welcoming Spaces Grant Scheme will run until October 2025. These spaces offer a safe, warm, and welcoming environment for local people, especially during colder months, and can provide vital services and support to those in need. Using funds from the Household Support Fund for West Northamptonshire, the Council is seeking to support the creation or development of Welcoming Spaces across the area. These spaces provide a non-judgemental, safe environment where residents can come together, enjoy refreshments and access wider support services. Grants of £500 to £1,500 are available to community and voluntary organisations, registered charities, and other qualifying bodies, with funding intended to provide support until the end of March 2026. The closing date for all applications is 10 am on Monday 6 October 2025. Organisations can apply once during the funding period. Applications will be assessed based on the strength of the proposal and the organisation’s ability to deliver the project effectively. “Welcoming Spaces play a vital role in supporting our communities, especially during the colder months when many residents may be facing difficult circumstances. Through this grant scheme, we’re proud to help local organisations create safe, warm, and inclusive environments where people can connect, access support, and feel a sense of belonging. I encourage all eligible groups to apply and be part of this important initiative.” Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at West Northamptonshire Council The on-line application form is available from this website page: Welcoming Spaces | West Northamptonshire Council Or direct via this link: Apply for the Welcoming Spaces grant - Introduction - Online form More information on Welcoming Spaces can be found on our website: Welcoming Spaces | West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Revenue and Benefits System upgrade taking place this weekend
July 31, 2025
Revenue and Benefits System upgrade taking place this weekend
31 July 2025 Residents in West Northamptonshire to experience a simpler, faster and more reliable way to manage their Council Tax, Housing Benefits and Business Rates, as an essential update of the Council’s Revenue and Benefits system takes place this weekend. From 5pm on Friday 1 August until 12pm on Monday 4 August, the system will be temporarily unavailable while an essential update is carried out. This will complete the transition to a single, modern platform that brings improvements to how residents interact with the Council’s online services. During the final update, residents will not be able to access the customer portal or submit forms online. This includes new applications for Housing Benefit and Council Tax support, submitting Council Tax Discounts and Exemptions, setting up or changing direct debits, and notifying changes of address. 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. "This is about making life easier for people. We know how important it is for our residents to have access to clear, simple and reliable services, especially when it comes to finances and support. This new system will make it quicker and more straightforward for people to manage their Council Tax or Benefits online, and it gives our staff better tools to help those who need us. I’d like to thank all residents for their continued understanding and cooperation as we complete this major improvement.” Cllr John Slope, Cabinet Member for Finance at West Northamptonshire Council Want the latest Council news delivered straight to your inbox?
Northamptonshire County Schools Challenge winners launch ’30 Seconds’ game to promote fire safety
July 31, 2025
Northamptonshire County Schools Challenge winners launch ’30 Seconds’ game to promote fire safety
Winners of the 2023 Northamptonshire County Schools Challenge have launched their winning idea at Corby Fire Station two years after winning. The victorious team from Corby Technical School designed a game and lesson plan to help raise awareness of deliberate fire setting, aimed at children. The County Schools Challenge is an annual project run in Northamptonshire to help thousands of pupils learn about important social issues while teaching them invaluable skills. The theme for this round was deliberate fire setting and was led by Northamptonshire’s Police and Fire Arson Task Force. Corby Technical School’s winning project was the ‘30 Seconds’ game, a card game that aims to teach young people the dangers of deliberate fire setting. The game has tokens to win that can be used in a classroom setting, by partner agencies or by young people and families. An accompanying lesson plan has also been designed and is available to all schools nationwide. The winning team of five students, Hallé Mathew, Gracie Wilson, Sophia Callan, Freya Binley, and Amber Barber, competed against twenty-five other secondary schools to win the challenge. The ‘30 Seconds’ game is aimed predominantly at primary and secondary school children aged 8-14 although play is suitable for anyone. As well as multiple choice cards, there are true and false cards, and fact cards all relating to deliberate fire setting and fire safety. Assistant Principal of Corby Technical School Kieran Fitzpatrick said, “The students created a card game called ‘30 Seconds’. They chose the name because a fire can escalate in just 30 seconds, which they thought was a very important message to convey to young people. “The game is about educating young people about the dangers of deliberately setting fires and includes lots of useful facts about fire safety. It also has some fun information, for example facts about the Great Fire of London, which makes the game engaging and informative.” After being crowned winners of the 2023 County Schools Challenge, the school and the team linked up with Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service and Northamptonshire Police to have the game professionally produced, and it is now ready to be distributed. [embedded content] Kelly Crockett, Arson Reduction Coordinator from Northamptonshire’s Arson Task Force worked on the project. She said, “I was fortunate to lead on the Northamptonshire County Schools Challenge theme of deliberate fire setting. We encouraged schools to discuss the risks and consequences of deliberate fires and to raise awareness of the dangers and the impact that deliberate fire setting can have on themselves, the community, the environment and the emergency services. “I was keen to see how the schools embraced the challenge and presented their ideas, whilst sharing important safety messages. “All the schools involved worked extremely hard on this significant issue, and the winners created a fantastic game which can be used within our work with children and young people, to continue to raise awareness and make a positive difference within the county.” The winning team headed to Corby Fire Station to formally launch and play the game with the crew and Chief Fire Officer Nikki Watson. Nikki said: “It was a pleasure to be at the launch of the Northamptonshire County Schools Challenge winning game. The creativity and teamwork of this group of young people is inspiring, and the game they created was fantastic. “Deliberate fire setting is an issue for every fire service. I hope that this game can help to educate the young people in Northamptonshire of the danger of setting fires, while having some fun too.” Note to editors: The winning project from 2023 has been launched now due to production delays in making the game.