A vision for the future

Like many places, Northampton town centre must respond to changing demographics, consumer behaviour, and ageing infrastructure. As the largest brownfield regeneration in West Northamptonshire, Greyfriars is an opportunity to respond at scale.

Through investment in cultural experiences, modern urban living, walkable streets, accessible green spaces, and flexible workspaces, Northampton town centre is strengthening its regional and national competitiveness.

A place for everyone

West Northamptonshire is a diverse and vibrant place, and the regeneration of Greyfriars will deliver for the whole community. New homes will include affordable housing, build-to-rent and student accommodation. Shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants will bring energy to the new neighbourhood – supporting new residents and existing communities.

Flexible and creative workspaces will support growing businesses, create local jobs, and open new opportunities for residents. Elsewhere, public green spaces will deliver a safe, walkable and accessible neighbourhood, enhancing connectivity to blend Greyfriars seamlessly into a wider town centre vision.

Celebrating culture and heritage

Derelict and historic buildings will be brought back to life, giving them new purpose at the heart of the community. The historic Corn Exchange will become a vibrant cultural hub, celebrating Northampton’s creative spirit.

A new landscaped public space will provide opportunities for hosting outdoor events and performances, forming a new focal point for the community – a place to gather, meet, and share experiences.

The Masterplan

Our emerging masterplan focuses on delivery – making sure our vision can become a reality for the people of Northampton. We have looked at how the scheme can be delivered in stages to make sure that the much-needed new homes are built first, without disrupting neighbours and road networks. This will help unlock the area and ensure that subsequent stages can follow quickly including new connections and pedestrianised public places, cultural and community venues, green spaces and more.

Next Steps

From our introduction to the project with WNC in late 2023, to the formation of our Development Agreement in the summer of 2025, we are keen to maintain momentum, and work towards realising a truly successful project. We have had fantastic level of engagement from the community with the process so far and hope that this will continue to help inform the proposals as they develop.

Our current delivery timescale is planned as follows:

-Survey’s and site investigation works Winter 2025/26

-Environmental Impact Screening early 2026

-Engagement workshops February to July 2026

-Planning application submission Autumn 2026