Despite pressures on public sector finances, the government has backed the long-term regeneration of West Northamptonshire. Speaking at a House of Commons debate, Communities Minister Andrew Stunell MP, recognised the economic importance of the area, and explained how the redevelopment of Northampton, Daventry and Towcester will be delivered in coming years.

Andrew Stunell MP said: “Our priority is the economic growth and potential of West Northamptonshire’s priority sectors, including high performance engineering. We want to encourage the area’s unique opportunities including Silverstone, the logistics golden triangle and Northampton Waterside Enterprise Zone.”

Recognising the work of WNDC, the Minister added: “The Corporation has been very successful in delivering a range of projects to date, resulting in £70 million of infrastructure improvements, levering in a further £200 million of private sector investment. It has seen to the approval of up to 10,000 new homes and the creation of 2,500 jobs.”

The Minister confirmed that WNDC will complete its final delivery phase and remain in operation until March 2014. The Corporation is helping to deliver a series of major regeneration projects, including the redevelopment of Northampton’s waterside area, Castle Railway Station and the Grosvenor Shopping Centre. It is also supporting the regeneration of Daventry and Towcester town centres.

During this period, WNDC will be more accountable to local people, following changes to the composition of its board, which bring it under majority local authority control. The Minister also confirmed that a local authority-led body will continue WNDC’s activity after March 2014

WNDC’s Chairman John Markham said: “The Government clearly recognises the huge potential of West Northamptonshire. A considerable amount of progress has already been made, with projects ranging from Northampton’s Becket’s Park Marina to Daventry’s iCon Innovation Centre already up and running. However, there’s a lot more to be achieved and we’re very pleased that there is a long-term commitment to the transformation of the area”

Related posts:

1. Key appointments to support regeneration of West Northamptonshire
2. Key appointments to support regeneration of West Northamptonshire
3. Government outlines the future of West Northamptonshire Development Corporation
4. Government backs WNDC to continue delivering in Northampton, Daventry and Towcester
5. West Northamptonshire celebrates double awards success