Northampton News
News
Northampton’s £20m Cultural Quarter development faces delays after archaeologists uncover medieval remains beneath the former bus station site. Meanwhile, emergency services responded to a major blaze at a warehouse in Brackmills Industrial Estate, with crews working overnight to contain the fire.
Business News
Cosworth Group announces a £30m expansion of its Northampton HQ, creating 150 high-tech engineering jobs. The Grosvenor Centre reports a 15% boost in footfall following its refurbishment, while local footwear firm Tricker’s secures a lucrative export deal with Japan.
Economic News
Northamptonshire’s economy grew by 2.9% last quarter, driven by advanced manufacturing and logistics. However, town centre vacancy rates remain stubbornly high at 18%, with calls for urgent action to revitalise the High Street. Unemployment stands at 3.4%, slightly below the national average.
Political News
West Northamptonshire Council approves controversial plans for 4,000 new homes on the edge of town, despite protests over green belt concerns. The Labour opposition criticises cuts to youth services, branding them "short-sighted".
Election News
Northampton North and South emerge as key marginal seats, with recent polls showing Labour gaining ground. Local debates focus on NHS waiting times at Northampton General and the state of the region’s roads.
Employment News
St. James’s Place Wealth Management opens a new office in Northampton, creating 120 financial sector jobs. Amazon’s Moulton Park fulfilment centre seeks 300 seasonal workers, while the hospitality sector reports staff shortages ahead of peak season.
Business News
Shares in Church’s Shoes parent company Prada rise 5% following strong quarterly results. Barratt Developments, which has a major presence in the county, sees shares dip 2% amid housing market uncertainty.
Forecast
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Wednesday (18 June): Thunderstorms, 20°C
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Thursday: Showers, 18°C
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Friday: Sunny intervals, 22°C
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Saturday: Cloudy, 19°C
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Sunday: Light rain, 17°C
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Monday: Partly cloudy, 21°C
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Tuesday: Warm sunshine, 24°C
Entertainment News
The Royal & Derngate theatre announces its autumn season, including a world premiere about Northampton’s shoe-making heritage. Beckett’s Park prepares to host its annual summer music festival, with rs including Tom Grennan.
Upcoming Events in Northampton
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Northampton Food & Drink Festival (21-23 June) - Market Square
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Abington Park Fun Day (22 June) - Family activities and live music
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Northampton Carnival (29 June) - Celebrating 50 years
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Silverstone Classic (26-28 June) - Just 20 minutes from town
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Derngate Comedy Night (25 June) - Featuring Alan Carr
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Northampton Balloon Festival (12-14 July) - Racecourse
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Film Night: Oppenheimer (28 June, Abington Park)
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Northampton Beer Festival (5-7 July) - The County Ground
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Northampton Music Festival (13 July) - Free city-wide event
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Northampton Saints Fan Day (27 July) - Franklin’s Gardens
Key Features:
���� Industry Focus: Highlighting Northampton’s engineering and footwear heritage
����️ Retail Watch: Tracking town centre regeneration efforts
���� town Corner: Saints’ Premiership preparations
���� Culture Spot: Showcasing local arts and music talent
For breaking updates follow Northampton Chronicle on social media.
Transport Alert: Temporary road closures around Cultural Quarter site until 24 June.
Editor’s Note: This edition spotlights:
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The town’s manufacturing resurgence
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Challenges of urban regeneration
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Summer events driving footfall
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Political tensions over housing
Would you like additional focus on:
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University expansion plans?
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Nighttime economy recovery?
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Historic shoe trade legacy?
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