West Northamptonshire Council has selected English Cities Fund (ECF) as its partner to help deliver the regeneration of the Greyfriars site in Northampton town centre.
The 14-acre+ site comprises the former Greyfriars Bus Station, which was demolished in 2015, as well as the Mayorhold and Victoria Street car parks, the Corn Exchange, Belgrave House and East and West Island.
The agreement between the council and ECF enables the partnership to explore and shape planning, delivery and funding for the brownfield regeneration project.
West Northamptonshire Council and Studio Egret West – with support from Homes England – have outlined a vision for the site that will involve the repurposing of a number of derelict buildings.
Their plans include use of the Corn Exchange as an arts and culture hub and Belgrave House as an innovative workspace and business incubator. They are also considering a new outdoor amphitheatre, new homes, shops, cafés, restaurants and new public realm.
Sir Michael Lyons, chair of ECF – a joint venture between Legal & General, Homes England, and Muse – said: “West Northamptonshire Council has developed an ambitious and exciting vision for Greyfriars, as part of a bold approach to the wider regeneration of Northampton Town Centre. Working in partnership with the local authority, ECF will support the development of a delivery model which aligns with the Greyfriars vision and supports long-term regeneration.
“Greyfriars has the potential to drive significant social and economic value and working together we can unlock the opportunity. Having expanded in size to £400m, ECF stands ready to collaborate with ambitious partners to deliver transformative regeneration.”
Dan Lister, cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, added: “Transformational change is already underway across Northampton town centre with the redevelopment of the Market Square, and rejuvenation of Abington and Fish Street. As well as development plans on brownfield land at Four Waterside and Marefair which demonstrates the council’s ambition but also commitment to delivering better public spaces.
“This partnership is an exciting step forward in our vision to regenerate the Greyfriars site into a vibrant neighbourhood which is set to amplify this part of town and turn this into a reality. ECF obtain a wide breadth of skills and knowledge which they will be bringing to West Northamptonshire as part of a long-term relationship to bring forward a viable and sustainable scheme.”
