Vital demolition works are being planned in the Northampton Enterprise Zone. Once completed, they will pave the way for a flagship office development at St Peter’s Waterside.
Covering a stretch of brownfield land between the River Nene and St Peter’s Way, the site has been acquired by West Northamptonshire Development Corporation. It has applied to Northampton Borough Council to demolish all of the properties it owns there, including 10 houses on Tanner Street and 5 business premises off St Peter’s Way.
With the current occupiers ready to relocate, demolition of the houses could start this summer, followed by the commercial units in autumn.
Peter Mawson, WNDC’s Chief Executive said: “Since this area was identified as a regeneration priority, we have been helping the various occupiers to start afresh in better locations. That process is almost complete and the transformation of St Peter’s Waterside can move ahead.
“The site has huge potential, overlooking the River Nene, as well as the new and improved railway station, which will start construction this year. The demolition works are an exciting step in our plans and they will signal a new beginning for Northampton’s Waterside.”
Cllr David Mackintosh, leader of Northampton Borough Council, said: “This is an important milestone in the development of Northampton town centre. St Peter’s Waterside is a fundamental element of the Enterprise Zone and will address a shortfall in quality office space available in Northampton.
“Along with our new railway station, and plans for the Innovation Centre at Black Lion Hill, regeneration of the area is really gathering pace. This is an extremely exciting time for Northampton and it seems that everywhere you turn progress is being made.”
St Peter’s Waterside is a key part of the ‘Northampton Alive’ regeneration programme. There is the potential for up to 40,000 sqm of commercial development in the area, starting with a six storey Innovation Centre, which is being delivered by WNDC and the University of Northampton.
WNDC is currently securing partners for later phases of office development. Additionally, it is in discussions with National Grid about the possibility of including the adjoining Gasholder sites in the long-term regeneration plans.
