Construction works well underway for transformation of Northampton shopping district
/in News/by ClerkThe works on Fish Street, as part of a wider regeneration project to Northampton town centre, are well underway with new lettering cementing the rejuvenation of this part of the town.
West Northamptonshire Council is working with Kier Transportation to carry out vital works to enhance the appearance of Abington Street and Fish Street. Since March, nearly 900m2 of paving has been installed on Fish Street, along with an improved drainage system and fish themed paving designs.
This project will lift the quality of the public spaces through high quality materials, increasing seating and planting, introducing new art and play opportunities along the street, as well as space for outdoor dining and community activity.
Businesses in the area have been kept up to date with the project’s phases, and the project’s dedicated single point of contact has been working closely to ensure they have been able to operate with minimal disruption.
The redevelopment will complement the wider Market Square transformation, and provide enhanced connectivity with the rest of the town.
Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC said: “Work is well underway to deliver this significant project which will transform one of the busiest shopping streets in Northampton. Visitors to the town will be able to see the progress which is taking shape at Fish Street as the lettering has now cemented this rejuvenated street and the new paving which elevates this area. Once complete and thoroughly cleaned, the revitalised area and enhanced features will offer a fantastic space for people to use and enjoy. We look forward to the completed project opening this winter.”
Edith Shah, general manager at Kier Transportation added: “We are pleased with the progress made so far in this transformative project for Northampton’s shopping district. Working closely with West Northamptonshire Council, we’ve already made significant steps toward revitalising the town centre.
“Project teams have been working closely with local businesses to ensure minimal disruption. This marks an exciting time for Northampton, and we look forward to seeing how the works leave a lasting, positive impact on the community.”
Work continues with the completion of Abington Street repaving, the upgrade and installation of street lighting, installation of street furniture, planting of new trees, and minor finishing touches. The project is set to be complete in Winter 2024/2025 and will be thoroughly cleaned once all construction works are completed.
To stay up to date with the regeneration of Northampton Town Centre, visit: We Are Northampton.
Contact Information
West Northamptonshire Council Communications Team
communications@westnorthants.gov.uk
Funding available for community groups to support mental health initiatives
/in News/by ClerkVoluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across West Northamptonshire are invited to apply for grant funding to deliver community-based projects which seek to improve the mental wellbeing of local residents.
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is committed to promoting good mental health and wellbeing, for people who live, work and study in the area and is working in collaboration with NHS, the VCSE sector, and other partners to deliver services which benefit the local community.
WNC has announced that grant funding is available and welcomes joint bids, especially those that focus on collaborative working to tackle mental health inequalities within our local area. The deadline for expressions of interest for the Community Mental Health Prevention Grant is 27 September 2024. To receive an application form and the grant documents, please email publichealth@westnorthants.gov.uk with the subject ‘Community Mental Health Prevention Grant’.
As part of the joined-up approach we are taking with other organisations, including as part of the local “Live Your Best Life Strategy”, West Northamptonshire Council are seeking to fund a variety of mental health support programmes, based in our local community.
Cllr Matt Golby, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services at WNC said: “We all have mental health. Good mental health can bring a sense of direction and purpose, the ability to cope with challenges in our life, and give us energy to do the things we would like to do. Mental health does not always stay the same, it can change as our circumstances may change and as we reach different stages in life. The Better Mental Health For All report highlights the importance of public mental health acting in an empowering way to tackle health inequalities. We look forward to hearing from local groups about their initiatives and working with them to improve the mental wellbeing of our communities.”.
Dr David Smart added: “The above report highlights the clinical and economic importance of promoting positive mental health to give people hope, choice and agency. We wish to develop excellent partnership working with the VCSE alongside local communities and groups. This funding provides new partnership opportunities.”
The key areas of focus for these programmes are mental health support for adults with long-term physical health problems, and promotion of mental wellbeing and resilience for those at risk of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Contact Information
West Northamptonshire Council Communications Team
communications@westnorthants.gov.uk
Residents encouraged to share suggestions as work continues to further strengthen community relations in West Northamptonshire
/in News/by ClerkResidents and community groups are being encouraged to share their concerns and suggestions around safety and inclusion as work continues to further strengthen community relations in West Northamptonshire.
The call comes from the West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership (CSP), which brings together agencies including the police, council, fire and rescue service, NHS health partners and community and voluntary groups, and is progressing a programme of actions to further improve community cohesion.
Earlier this month more than 30 partners gathered to focus on how to further develop community cohesion work locally and are now calling upon communities to get involved and give their views too. They are asked to get in touch with concerns and suggestions about their community to help shape the plans by emailing communityforums@westnorthants.gov.uk.
This work is being reinforced by two new Community Cohesion Officers who will be out and about in communities providing on-the-ground support to residents.
The partnership is also working with a number of community forums aligned to various protected characteristics including disability, gender, sexuality, age, religion, faith and ethnicity. The forums provide a safe, accessible space to engage communities who are seldom heard and who may not ordinarily engage and gives them a platform to feedback on issues of concern and help improve the quality of life for the community they are representing. Find out more on the West Northants community forums webpage.
Cllr David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning and Communities at WNC, said: “Recent events have truly highlighted the resilience of our local community.
“Through continued engagement and the strong efforts of the West Northamptonshire Community Safety Partnership, we will keep working to protect and uplift every member of our community. We encourage all residents to participate, share their concerns, and help us build a safer, more cohesive West Northamptonshire for all.”
The CSP’s progressing programme of work to improve community cohesion includes increasing neighbourhood engagement and addressing health inequalities.
Deputy Chief Constable Ash Tuckley from Northamptonshire Police said: “It is not lost on anyone just how difficult it has been for our communities during recent events, and we understand these experiences will have a lasting impact on many people.
“We continue to work with our partners and the community to both reassure and reinforce our promise that anyone involved in any kind of serious violence or found to be spreading hate and disinformation can expect the full force of the law and the consequences that brings.
“Northamptonshire Police is dedicated and resolute in our aim to make our communities safer. We want people to feel heard and supported so please tell us your concerns and share your ideas so we can work together to build a safer, stronger and more cohesive Northamptonshire.”
In the past 3 years, the partnership has supported hundreds of Ukrainian and Afghan families who have been welcomed into West Northants communities as part of the Homes for Ukraine and Afghan resettlement schemes. There are currently around 400 Ukrainians still living in West Northamptonshire and 32 Afghan households settled in and around Northampton, all being supported with integration, English language support, and access to employment and education.
The team also supports asylum seekers who have had claims determined to find homes and work, including integration and information sessions around UK laws and culture, the education and health systems, volunteering and road safety. Find out more about the partnership and their work on the CSP webpage.
Contact Information
West Northamptonshire Council Communications Team
communications@westnorthants.gov.uk
Health, safety and wellbeing forum offering support for businesses
/in News/by ClerkBusiness owners across West Northants are invited to a free forum aimed at health, safety and wellbeing within the workplace.
The event, taking place on Friday 27 September between 9am and 1pm, at The Hub, Drift Drive in Crick (NN6 7GZ), is an opportunity for new and established businesses to listen to a series of speakers on the following topics:
- Workplace wellbeing toolkit – West Northamptonshire Council’s Health Improvement service
- Wellbeing, diversity and inclusion within Wickes
- Unforeseen safety risk (and solution) to decarbonising forklift truck fleets with Travis Perkins
- Warrens The Journey
Organised by West Northamptonshire Council’s Regulatory Services and Warrens at DIRFT, there will also be information on food hygiene, health and safety, allergen management, pest control and more. WNC’s Inward Investment and Business Growth team will be on hand to offer business advice and support and information on funding opportunities.
Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services said: “We’re pleased to be able to put on this forum to highlight the advice, support and guidance available to business owners to help them succeed.
“It is a chance for them to be able to listen to industry leaders, ask questions and network with others. I would encourage new and established businesses to come along to find out more about the support on offer from the Council and its partners.”
Places are limited and can be reserved on the Council’s Ticket Source page.
Contact Information
West Northamptonshire Council Communications Team
communications@westnorthants.gov.uk
Parish Council Update: Changes to Smith Street Cemetery Access Gates
/in News/by ClerkDear Residents,
We are pleased to inform you that the bolt obstructing the vehicle access gate latch has now been removed, allowing full movement of the latch. Consequently, with the removal of the padlock and chain, the gate is now fully operational, providing unencumbered access for vehicles.
Thank you for your further understanding and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Clerk
Spratton Parish Council
Parish Council Notice: Changes to Smith Street Cemetery Access Gates
/in News/by ClerkDear Residents,
We regret to inform you that recent changes have been made to the Smith Street access gates to the Cemetery by the landowner, without Parish Council approval and against Council wishes. Unfortunately, the pedestrian gate has been altered in a way that now restricts access for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and similar mobility aids. We deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause to those with young children, those who rely on these aids for access, or anyone else whose access is now hampered.
Additionally, it has come to our attention at the same time that the vehicle access gate has been tampered with, resulting in the gate being inoperable for vehicle entry including hearses. This situation is of considerable concern as Cemetery burials are potentially now not possible.
We understand the importance of the Cemetery to our community and are committed to investigating these issues promptly. We will keep you updated on the progress and will notify you as soon as any restoration of access is achieved.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Clerk
Spratton Parish Council
Northamptonshire Police response to national public disorder challenges – message from DCC Ash Tuckley
/in News/by ClerkDeputy Chief Constable Ash Tuckley has issued a statement about the Northamptonshire Police response to the national public disorder challenges in recent days which we are sharing with you here…
“The UK-wide public disorder and violent disturbances of the past few days have been deeply troubling and all of you will have seen the dreadful scenes in towns and cities across the country.
“Thankfully, Northamptonshire has so far not yet witnessed any violent disorder but let me assure you we are absolutely ready to address it if it does.
“We are continuing to plan for and manage any potential risks, and resourcing plans are in place to ensure officers are ready to respond should any protests or disorder occur in our county.
“I would like to thank our communities for their support and for engaging positively with our officers as they both continue to ensure a normal policing service for those who need it, while providing support and reassurance in communities where there are understandable concerns and feelings insecurity.
“Our neighbourhood policing teams will continue to work closely with their local communities and I encourage you to speak with them if you have any questions or concerns. Please also come forward if you have any information that you believe may be relevant or useful to us in our work to protect our communities and keep people safe during this difficult and uncertain period.
“We know many of those attending the so-called protests across the country, and getting involved in violence and disorder, are responding directly to what they see online. We’re working hard to counteract this but we can only do so much and need your help.
“Please be careful about information you share and help us and our communities by only sharing information supplied by the police or partner organisations, or information you know to be true.
“I would also ask you not to respond to any speculation. If you are concerned or have information that may assist us, please do link in with your neighbourhood policing contacts or report information to us online or via 999 in an emergency.”
“We are working hard to keep our county safe and our intelligence teams are working around the clock to identify anyone who may be involved in planning or inciting violent disorder in our county.
“Policing is not anti-protest, we are anti-crime and we are here to protect the public and keep the peace no matter people’s beliefs.
“Those who cause or incite violence will be brought to justice. Violent disorder is a serious offence which often comes with a lengthy jail term so be assured we will take any such offences seriously and will work with our criminal justice partners to do this should the need arise.
“We are supporting our colleagues across the country where required, who are doing a fantastic job in the face of such sustained violence and disorder. Locally, we are prepared but business as usual policing remains ongoing and as always, the top priority is public safety.”
If you have any comments or questions, please get in touch. You can reply to this message, speak with your local neighbourhood police officers, or contact us online or by phone in the usual way.
Thank you
Message Sent By
Northamptonshire Police Corporate Communications Team
Help us to shape leisure facilities in West Northants
/in News/by ClerkResidents are invited to share their views about leisure facilities and physical activity in West Northamptonshire to help us shape future services and provision.
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is currently developing an Active Lives Strategy and looking at the future management of Council owned leisure centres in Northampton and Daventry to ensure the delivery of a high-quality service across our communities.
To help us with this we are asking people to let us know how physically active they are and how physically active they would like to be at home, in the park, at sports clubs or at leisure centres.
We would also like to know how residents feel about the Council’s leisure centres, the facilities themselves, the activities that go on in the centres and the priorities for the centres moving forward.
Responses will help us to understand the needs of people in West Northants and develop an Active Lives Strategy which considers future leisure centre management.
Cllr Daniel Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure, said: “We are excited to launch a public consultation to help shape the future of leisure centre provision in West Northamptonshire.
“This is a valuable opportunity for residents to have their say on what facilities and services they would like to see in their local leisure centres and communities.
“By gathering feedback, we aim to ensure that our leisure facilities and services meet the needs and preferences of all residents and promote health, wellness, and a vibrant community life.
“We encourage everyone to participate and share their views, your input is crucial in helping us create leisure facilities that everyone can enjoy.”
Please share your views by completing the online survey in the Council’s consultation hub before midnight on Sunday 15 September 2024.
Draft Local Transport Plan Consultation
/in News/by ClerkSince July 2023 the Council has been developing through engagement with key stakeholders West Northamptonshire’s Local Transport Plan (LTP). The LTP sets out our vision on maintaining and improving all aspects of local transport, supporting our commitment to tackle the climate challenge and to be Net Zero by 2045. The LTP is the first to be developed by West Northamptonshire Council and supports the Council’s Vision: to make West Northamptonshire a great place to live, work, visit and thrive.
The LTP is Vison led and based around three key themes: Connecting People Better, Shaping Healthier Places and Mobility Enabling Prosperity. The LTP contains 16 policy areas and a programme of short, medium and long term interventions, with a particular focus on the actions and approaches which are needed over the next five years.
The consultation runs for a period of 12 weeks closing at 23:59 on Thursday 17 October 2024.
All the consultation documents and a link to the survey can be found on the Council’s website: https://westnorthants.citizenspace.com/planning/draft-west-northamptonshire-local-transport-plan
Documents will also be available to view as hard copies in libraries across West Northamptonshire from 20 August 2024.
Any questions regarding this consultation should be addressed to localtransportplan@westnorthants.gov.uk
We are also running a series of in-person and virtual drop-in events as outlined in the table below. If you wish to attend a virtual drop-in session please email localtransportplan@westnorthants.gov.uk with the details of the session you would like to attend and you will be sent joining instructions.
|
Location |
Date |
Time |
|
Daventry: Daventry Market, High Street, Daventry |
Tuesday 13 August 2024 |
From 9am to noon |
|
Brackley: Brackley Market, The Piazza, Market Place, Brackley |
Friday 16 August 2024 |
From 9am to noon |
|
Virtual drop-in, MS Teams |
Wednesday 21 August 2024 |
From 10am to 11:30am |
|
Northampton: Grosvenor Shopping Centre, Northampton |
Thursday 22 August 2024 |
From 9am to noon |
|
Virtual drop-in, MS Teams |
Monday 23 September 2024 |
From 10am to 11:30am |
|
Towcester: Towcester Farmers Market, Sponne Arcade Car Park, Richmond Road, Towcester |
Friday 11 October 2024 |
From 9am to noon |
We are looking forward to hearing your views and we would really appreciate it if you could share details of the consultation with your networks.
Kind regards,
Transport Planning Team
Place and Economy Directorate