Preparation works to begin transformation of Northampton shopping district

26 October 2023

West Northamptonshire Council has announced plans to begin construction works to Northampton’s main shopping street in early 2024 and begin preparatory works in November, following investigatory works with its partner, Kier Transportation.

Following an extensive public consultation over the summer, vital works to enhance the appearance of Abington Street and Fish Street have been confirmed. This will include new paving and seating, additional trees and planting to enhance the landscaping.

Kier and WNC are liaising directly with businesses in the area to keep them up to date on the progress of works. As part of this, there will be a dedicated single point of contact for businesses throughout the project.

The redevelopment will complement the wider regeneration of the town centre, including the Market Square transformation, and provide enhanced connectivity with the rest of the town.

We are pleased to be working with Kier, who we already have an established relationship with, as they carry out this significant project to one of the busiest shopping streets in our area.

The plans are intended to help this area adapt to the changing face of the high street by encouraging café culture, supporting retail and creating more appealing and flexible surroundings for visitors and those who live in the town centre. The enhanced features and appearance, as well as new facilities, will offer a fantastic space for people to use and enjoy. We look forward to this taking shape in the coming weeks and months as works start on site later this year.Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Town Centre Regeneration and Growth at WNC

Investigatory works were carried out in September to gain an understanding of all services connected through Abington and Fish Street.

Preparatory works will start on 30 October for three days, which will include the removal of eight trees. Following a full arboricultural report, the existing trees that are due to be removed were deemed either not suitable to be relocated or preserved due to their deteriorating health or their proximity to other trees limiting their growth. As part of the project, an increased number of new trees will be planted across Abington and Fish Street.

Now we have completed the investigatory works, we are delighted to press ahead with the initial tranche of works starting in the new year. This is the first significant public realm project we have delivered on behalf of West Northamptonshire Council as its highways maintenance partner - and we look forward to enhancing connectivity, bringing new life to Northampton town centre and making a difference in the community through these developments.John Coombes, general manager at Kier

To stay up to date with the regeneration of Northampton Town Centre, visit: We Are Northampton.