24 June 2010

WNDC, South Northamptonshire Council and their partners in the Moat Lane regeneration project are pleased to announce that the procurement procedure for selecting a developer(s) for the project is about to begin. A prior information notice has been published in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) for this exciting mixed use development opportunity in the heart of Towcester. The procedure for selecting a developer(s) has to comply with European Union procurement rules and will therefore continue throughout 2010 and 2011.

The masterplan was launched to the public in December 2009 and shows a vibrant, modern town centre with a new community library and registry office, improved leisure facilities –including a new hotel, restaurant, cafes and bars – improved car parking, and additional shops. This is focused around the restored Bury Mount and the recently opened Watermeadows.

Towcester’s community, together with historical and archaeological experts, have played a key role in shaping the new development plans which aim to enhance Towcester’s reputation as a great place to live, work and visit. Many existing buildings and structures will be refurbished, protecting the area’s rich heritage for future generations.

The development will be in keeping with the local environment, using local materials and the highest quality design and architecture. As part of South Northamptonshire’s status as a designated growth area, this project has benefited from significant central government finance.

For those interested in bidding for the development, the project team are holding a Developers Day on 9th July, this will enable those interested parties to find out more about the project and ask questions to the project advisors. If you would like further information on the Developers Day please visit www.moatlane.org and email moatlaneprocurement@southnorthants.gov.uk

Councillor John Townsend, Cabinet member for environmental policy said ‘having completed the initial work at Bury Mount and opened the Watermeadows, the PIN exercise signals the start of project implementation. We are excited about receiving proposals from developers over the course of the next year helping us to deliver this major project, that will enhance sense of place in South Northamptonshire and contribute to the economic development of the area’

Peter Mawson, Chief Executive of West Northamptonshire Development Corporation said ‘this is a real landmark moment for the Moat Lane project. WNDC has invested over £6 million in this scheme and we are confident that this investment, along with all of the work we have done with our partners over the last few years, will generate strong interest from the private sector development market.’

The Moat Lane project is led by South Northamptonshire Council, Northamptonshire County Council and the West Northamptonshire Development Corporation. It has benefited from significant funding and support from these organisations as well as Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited, the East Midlands Development Agency and the Homes & Communities Agency.

Related posts:

1. Easton Neston Watermeadow acquired to support the regeneration of Moat Lane Towcester
2. Towcesters newest attractions become open to the public
3. Bury Mount winners announced
4. Bury Mount landscaping one step closer
5. Work starts on Sandy Lane