Northamptonshire Arc Background Report

May 2010

Foreword

At present, there is no single A series of strategic priorities and strategy that encompasses interventions are identified which help to all of the county’s plans articulate how the three outcomes will be into one coherent approach. delivered and represent a ‘Transformational Neither is there an Agenda’. These build on existing assets such approach that expresses as our strengths in the high performance priorities in a practical and spatial way. engineering and motorsports sectors and growth potential, and new opportunities The purpose of the Arc such as those presented by new technology concept is to provide this joined-up approach, and innovation and biodiversity, habitat and in doing so create a strategic policy creation, heritage, and recreation. context for future planning and investment decisions on transport, economic development, Importantly the Northamptonshire Arc environmental and other planning and looks at these three thematic outcomes in investment activities. It is an approach based an integrated way, rather than in isolation. on real and functional economic geography This will help to align activity, create a rather than administrative boundaries. commonality, confidence and certainty of purpose, add value and differentiate This background report will help to shape Northamptonshire from other areas. These and guide important new documents and will be increasingly important factors in the investment plans in the future. This includes difficult financial times which lie ahead. the first statutory Local Economic Assessment, the Sub-Regional Investment Plan and a The purpose of publishing this document is to new style Connectivity Strategy (which will ask for your ideas to help inform how we take incorporate the role of a Local Transport Plan). forward and develop the Northamptonshire Arc concept and ensure that it is as strong Three thematic outcomes underpin as possible an advocacy document for the Northamptonshire Arc and are the whole of the Northamptonshire. crucial to creating a cleaner, greener more prosperous county. These are: • Improved Connectivity Councillor Jim Harker • Leadership on Climate Change Leader of Northamptonshire County Council and Biodiversity • A Stronger and Greener Economy Introduction

The need for a the Greater South East and the opportunities and challenges this presents, particularly in Northamptonshire Approach relation to the Housing Growth Agenda. At present, there is no single, overall strategy A spatial framework is required which which offers a coherent approach to all the will help to shape and inform responses county’s plans, or expresses our priorities to external drivers and help to put local in a practical, spatial way. Moreover, there priorities and activities into context. It will is no overarching advocacy document for also help to ensure that Northamptonshire external investment in Northamptonshire. capitalises on its strategic location, What is also clear is the need for an approach access to national networks, and which articulates and reflects local ambitions other opportunities. This framework is at a county level and complements the termed the Northamptonshire Arc. Northamptonshire Sustainable Communities The Northamptonshire Arc has been Strategy. It is essential that this approach adopted by the County Council to guide acknowledges Northamptonshire’s wider its decisions on transport, economic strategic location and proximity to and

NFigureo rth a m p1t o|n Northamptonshires h ire A rc Arc B ase Map s te e r d a v ie s g le a v e

P :\P rojects \222\2\90\01\G IS \MAP P ING \Mapinfo\W orks paces \Northamptons hire Arc B as e.wor 4 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report development, environmental and other Northamptonshire Arc planning and investment activities. And, is intended to provide an overarching - Spatial context and advocacy document for external investment ambitions in Northamptonshire. The Northamptonshire Arc will also inform the County Council’s In spatial terms, the Northamptonshire Arc input into the county’s statutory spatial (see Figure 1) represents a broad corridor plans, in particular the Core Strategies for running approximately south-west to north- North and . It is east from . It encompasses all envisaged that some of the more detailed the larger towns including and Northamptonshire Arc proposals and their in the west and south, spatial implications would be considered and and in the north and , tested through the statutory planning process. , and in the east. The County Council is represented alongside It is located strategically between the World the district and borough councils on the City of London and Birmingham, the learning Joint Committees established to prepare centres of Cambridge and Oxford, and its and review the Core Strategies. It will seek immediate proximity to the Greater South East. to ensure that these and other plans for It is also connected by a number of the major the county offer a coherent approach. economic arteries (both road and rail) which link London with other centres and markets. The Northamptonshire Arc is an outcome- led, rather than project led, approach. Three As a “cluster” of intrinsically linked centres, high-level thematic outcomes underpin the Northamptonshire Arc has the potential the Northamptonshire Arc. These are: to provide an outstanding location to live and offers a diverse choice of employment • Transformed connectivity opportunities, many at the leading edge of • Leadership on climate change & biodiversity their sectors. It can combine the best of urban living with an attractive rural environment • A stronger and greener economy which can be the envy of other areas. Part A series of sub-regional priorities (see of the Arc concept is an enhanced network Appendix A) and activities (see Appendix of green spaces and a strategic biodiversity B) are identified which flow from, reflect, corridor connecting and running between the and will help deliver these outcomes. The main centres. The concept will span homes, intention is to provide further clarity and jobs, recreational and leisure opportunities and focus, particularly at the county level. This excellent connectivity encompassing transport will help to strengthen and align existing and next generation digital connections activity, demonstrate how this fits with and enabling the opportunity to work, or access complements external agendas and local many services, from home. High academic ambitions, and identify and address gaps. It is and vocational educational attainment will be also to help influence decisions on investment, central to the concept which would also be both internal and external to the county, and expected to have the highest environmental action on delivery. It draws on the work of the credentials in terms of biodiversity, habitat borough and district councils, joint planning management and the built environment. units, regional and local agencies and others.

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 5 This would ensure that local residents providers. Discussions have also taken place enjoy the best life chances and help to with the borough and district councils, make the Arc and Northamptonshire an regional agencies (including the Regional area of choice for prospective residents, Development Agency, Homes & Communities businesses and new investment. Agency, Government Office and the MKSM Secretariat) and key Government officials. How will it be used? Initial views have been overwhelmingly The Northamptonshire Arc is the overall spatial positive. These include comments received concept to guide Northamptonshire County from private sector representatives Council’s future planning and investment and the business community who in the county and is a key policy and have welcomed this initiative and the advocacy document for Northamptonshire. Northamptonshire Arc concept. It can also help support planning and “The policy framework documents prepared Way forward Northamptonshire by the borough and district councils. At this stage this is a draft report. It Arc is an overall The emerging Arc spatial concept has already will now be subject to a formal public spatial concept provided the context for preparing the consultation. The outcome of this will to guide future Northamptonshire Sub-Regional Investment be reported back to the County Council’s planning and Plan (SRIP) for 2010/11-2012/13. This has Cabinet for further consideration. It will investment in recently been approved by the East also be offered to district and borough the county” Development Agency (emda) and has helped councils and the Joint Committees as a to secure continued Single Programme key concept to inform and complement funding for Northamptonshire in 2010/11. their statutory plans and other planning and policy framework documents. Initial reactions A considerable amount of stakeholder engagement has already taken place on the National Agenda/Influences Northamptonshire Arc. This has included presentations to the Boards of local public Statutory Infrastructure sector agencies, face-to-face meetings with Planning Northamptonshire Planning and business sector representatives, private Processes Arc Delivery (E.g. LDF, AAPs) sector investors, utility and infrastructure

Delivering Economic Growth

Figure 2 | How the Arc fits in with Planning process and delivery

6 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Background and Local Context Strategic Drivers There are a number of ongoing strategic initiatives and programmes external to Northamptonshire is undergoing many the county which are responses to these changes. Key drivers for these include national agendas. These also need to be the Housing Growth Agenda and addressed. Specific examples include: Northamptonshire’s strategic location within the UK and close proximity to London and the • The Single Conversation (between Greater South East and the implications of this. the Homes and Communities Agency and local authorities) The 2003 Sustainable Communities Plan is • Regional Funding Advice at the root of many of the changes anticipated The Digital Britain Agenda to occur in the county. This Plan identified the • and South Midlands’ area as • Creating Greener Jobs a “growth area”, with significant expansion • The Delivering a Sustainable Transport earmarked for Northamptonshire. Indeed, half System (DaSTS) Agenda of the housing growth planned for MKSM • An increasing emphasis on the will take place in the county. However, for Science, Technology, Engineering, population and housing growth to occur there and Maths (STEM) Framework must be matching expansion in jobs, schools, • Plans to develop a new high speed rail line supporting services and infrastructure etc. This between London and the North (HS2) is essential for growth to be “sustainable” and is Northamptonshire’s ‘deal’ with Government. • The National Roads Programme and Managed Motorways proposals In addition to the Housing Growth agenda These are only examples and there are and the need to respond to the current many more. economic recession, there are a number of other strategic drivers which will have an impact on Northamptonshire and need to be considered when taking forward growth area plans. Three drivers associated with having a strong and competitive economy are innovation, the emergence of low-carbon sectors and digital connectivity. Another critical driver is the climate change agenda. Collectively these drivers imply a large degree of change in the county which needs to be harnessed, led and managed. “Northamptonshire is the fastest growing sub region in ”

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 7 Population Borough administrative area, whereas Table 1 | Population the 2026 figure is the forecast for the forecasts for The current population of Northamptonshire is Northampton Implementation Area which Northamptonshire approximately 680,000 and the county is the extends beyond the Borough boundary. (2008-2026) fastest growing sub-region in England. Since These forecasts are being reviewed by the 2001 the population has grown by 7.7%. This is County Council to take account of the latest more than twice the national average of 3.3%. figures on housing completions and revised This increase has been driven by a combination assumptions on housing trajectories.

% Growth of economic migration, both international Year Population 2008-11 and national, and natural demographic These forecasts predict that, in addition 2008 686,000 4.0% change i.e. more births than deaths. to this population growth, there will be a 2011-16 significant increase in older people (e.g. a 68% 2011 715,600 12.8% The 2006-based population projections increase in the number of over 65 and 91% in 2016-21 produced by the Office of National Statistics the number over 85) by 2026. This will have 2016 766,500 5.6% for Government, and independent forecasts significant implications for new infrastructure 2021-26 produced by Northamptonshire County Council and the provision of public and other services. 2021 820,900 6.5% based on local housing trajectories, predict Northamptonshire will also see an increase 2026 877,900 that the population of the county will rise to in the number of young people. Indeed, there about 880,000 by 2026 (see table 1 below). Source: Northamptonshire are current about 8,000 births each year in 2006-based Population Forecasts the county. This is equivalent to more than 5 produced by Northamptonshire The majority of this population growth additional school classes being created each County Council will occur within a broad corridor running week. The proportion of growth of young people approximately south-west (from Daventry within the population is higher than elsewhere and Towcester) to north east (Corby and in the country because of the attraction of Wellingborough/Rushden) through the Northamptonshire for young people and county with Northampton at the centre. families and the young age of new incomers. The forecasts highlight a significant increase in the population for the Corby in particular. Health The County Council’s forecasts indicate Health is an increasingly important issue that Corby’s population is set to rise to particularly as more people live longer. In almost 100,000, a 41% increase from its February 2009 the Department for Health 2008 figures. Other areas of high growth (DfH) published Be Healthy, Be Happy: are Northampton, Daventry, Kettering and A guide for getting the nation moving. Wellingborough which are forecast to see This highlights the effect that inactivity a 21% to 26% increase in their populations has on health. The average cost of primary between 2008 and 2026. The greatest overall and secondary care costs attributed to increase in population terms alone will be inactivity is £5m per Primary Care Trust in Northampton which is set to increase (PCT) area per year. In the Northamptonshire from 205,500 in 2008 to 261,300 in 2026. PCT area the figure is over £9m per year. The figures for Northampton, Daventry Part of Northamptonshire becoming a and are based better place to live and work is helping on assumptions prior to the release of the people lead healthier lifestyles. draft Core Spatial Strategy. It also needs to be considered that the 2008 figure for Northampton is the population of the

8 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Housing growth and The Northamptonshire Local Area Agreement (LAA2) has a target of increasing affordability the number of new homes completed to As a result of Northamptonshire’s national 6,018 by 2010/11 from a baseline of 4,354 in growth area status more than 125,000 2004/5. Figure 3 shows the latest housing additional homes are planned to be trajectories based on the Annual Monitoring built in Northamptonshire in the period Reports produced by the borough and district between 2001 and 2026. A significant councils. These trajectories will in due course proportion of this housing growth will need to be reviewed to look further ahead be located within the existing urban and take account of effects of the recession. areas and in major urban extensions. This growth represents a major step change for Northamptonshire and, in scale of increase, is greater than anywhere else in England. Figure 3 | Housing Trajectories About 43,000 new homes, so roughly one 2008/09-2020/21 in three, will be built in the Northampton Implementation Area. The majority of the 8000 remaining development will be located in 7000 and around Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough 6000 and Daventry. The detailed locations of 5000 housing and other developments, including new employment, are identified in Core 4000 Spatial Strategies and Area Action Plans. 3000

2000 The housing market in Northamptonshire 1000 has already responded to this challenge. Housing completions increased from 3,462 0 in 2003/04 to 4,417 in 2006/07, a rise of 2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 21.6%. However, with the impact of the Source: 2007/08 Annual Monitoring recession and slow-down in the housing Reports and Local Delivery Vehicles 120000 market nationally, completions fell to

2,254 in 2008/09. Figures for 2009/10 are 100000 awaited, but again these will be significantly Figure 4 | Lower quartile house 80000 down on previous years. As a consequence price to lower quartile income ratio annual targets for subsequent years have 60000 South increased. Positively, the recession has not Northamptonshire 40000 Daventry impacted on developer interest and planning applications have been progressed to an 20000 Kettering advanced stage for many of the major urban Northampton extensions in the county. This means that Wellingborough0 there is a significant supply in the pipeline. ENGLAND2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 Corby

0 2 4 6 8 10 Source: CLG Housing lower quartile house price to lower quartile income ratio, 2008 (Note: a higher ratio means that housing is less affordable)

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 9 One of the main goals of the Housing Figure 5 | Traffic Growth Index Growth agenda is to increase access to housing, particularly for local people, but also to accommodate growth generated 2006 by the greater South East and London.

2005 Northamptonshire has a wide variation in house price to income ratios. Figure 4 2004 indicates the multiple of lower quartile house prices over lower quartile income 2003 at borough and district level across the county. This indicates that affordability is a 2002 countywide issue and is above the national average in all but one district i.e. Corby. 2001

2000

1999

1998

1997

90 95 100 105 110 115 120 125

Nottinghamshire NottinghamshireNorthamptonshire Leicestershire Northamptonshire England Derbyshire Lincolnshire England

Source: Department for Transport Monitoring

10 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Transport The MKSM Inter-Urban Transport Strategy, which was published in 2009, identifies Official figures show that Northamptonshire’s the A43/A45 roads linking Daventry roads have experienced the highest levels of and Towcester with the M1 through to traffic growth in England. Figure 5 shows how Northampton-Wellingborough-Kettering and traffic has grown across the from Wellingborough-Rushden-Thrapston region in the 10 years from 1997-2006. (A14) are showing significant pressures, It illustrates that Northamptonshire has especially around Northampton. This is consistently seen the highest levels of growth. largely due to the combined pressures of substantial local, regional and national traffic movements. These are already reaching 100,000 vehicles per day on some sections. This is comparable with levels of traffic on many major national motorway routes. The recent Government decision on the design

Map Key North of the new M1 Junction 19 (joining the A14 Severely Over Capacity and M6), which removes any south to east Over Capacity movement between the M1 and A14, will put Approaching Capacity Market Northamptonshire Biodiversity Harborough A6 increased pressure on the A43/A45 corridor for Corridor Corby A43 longer distance traffic.The MKSM Strategy

To Birmingham M1 identifies the A43/A45 corridor as a top priority. The strategy indicates that improvements are M6 A14 Kettering Thrapston A14 needed to enable the scale of growth which WCML A45 is planned for the area, and for it to perform To Coventry A6 A43 its function as a strategic transport artery. It M45 recommends the need for a comprehensive Wellingborough Rushden A45 review considering options of strategic traffic management and public transport Northampton A45 Daventry improvements as well as infrastructure

To Cambridge investment. This recommendation has been A45 A428 taken up by the East Midlands Region and Government and the study will form part of its programme of priority reviews. Work on Towcester this, termed the Northamptonshire Growth

To Barnbury M1 Towns Study, has already commenced. A5 A43 Figure 6 highlights the congestion ‘hot spots’ A6 Milton MML on the network. Over capacity indicates Keynes M40 that traffic levels mean that the junction is operating beyond its existing capacity. These WCML hot spots are clustered around the main Luton Luton Airport urban areas and Northampton in particular. Parkway To Oxford To London

Figure 6 | Congestion (AM peak) at 2005 Source: Northamptonshire Transport Models, Northamptonshire County Council (2005)

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 11 Map Key North Severely Over Capacity Over Capacity Figure 8 | Bus Journeys Approaching Capacity Market 2001/02 to 2007/08 Northamptonshire Biodiversity Harborough 25 A6 Corridor Corby A43

To Birmingham M1 20

M6 A14 Kettering Thrapston A14 15

WCML A45 To Coventry A6 A43 10 M45

Wellingborough Rushden Number of passengers(millions) A45 5

Northampton A45 Daventry 0 2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2007/08 To Cambridge A45 A428 Source: Best Value Performance Indicator 102, Northamptonshire County Council Bedford

Towcester Figure 9 | Bus Patronage To Barnbury M1 A5 at existing trajectory

A43

A6 Milton MML 225 Keynes M40 Brackley 200

175 WCML 150 Luton Luton Airport 125 Parkway 2001=100 Index To Oxford To London 100

Figure 7 | Forecast Congestion (AM peak) - 2021 75 2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031 © Crown Copyright. Northamptonshire County Council: Licence no. 100019331. Source: Northamptonshire Traffic Models, Northamptonshire County Council (2005) Source: Northamptonshire Transport Strategy for Growth (2007)

Detailed modelling work, which takes account The challenges associated with congestion are of predicted housing growth and committed recognised in the current Northamptonshire road schemes, suggests that the situation will be Local Area Agreement with Government (LAA2). significantly worse by 2021. Figure 7 illustrates This has a target of reducing congestion this scenario, based on the current level of (NI167) measured by average journey infrastructure investment being maintained. time per mile during the morning peak. Additional growth to 2026 and beyond will further compound this congestion and increase the number and severity of these hot spots.

12 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Rail connectivity and services are crucial Biodiversity and climate to the county’s future economic success. Northamptonshire’s largest urban areas change “Northamptonshire’s i.e. Northampton, Corby, Kettering and Most of Northamptonshire’s important roads have Wellingborough, are all located on the West wildlife and natural habitats exist within experienced the Coast Main Line or Midland Main Line. Current Local Wildlife Sites or Sites of Special highest levels of services largely provide for commuters and Scientific Interest (SSSIs). These are a national business travellers to London. However access traffic growth initiative, but are locally selected as sites to long distance services, and connections of at least county ecological importance. in England” to other centres, is very limited. This is a particular issue for Northampton given its Northamptonshire has well below the average size and strategic economic and growth proportional area of SSSIs, and has lost more importance and potential. It is also an issue plant species over a period of 50 years than for Corby, Kettering and Wellingborough any other English county. More of these for services northwards. East-west sites are being lost through lack of positive connectivity via rail is also very poor. management than through development. Road-based public transport is also important. Nevertheless, Northamptonshire has some The LAA2 has a target of increasing the fantastic areas for wildlife including Salcey number of local bus passenger transport Forest and Rockingham Forest at each end journeys originating in the county of the county. There is also active support, through groups such as Wildlife Trust and (NI177). For the third successive year the RSPB, who are looking into opportunities for total number of bus journeys originating in connecting up habitats throughout the county. the county has increased, over 19 million journeys being made in 2007/08 - an increase Growth will increase pressures on of more than 20% since 2003/04 (see Figure Northamptonshire’s remaining wildlife 7). However, it should be noted that this habitats. However, managed correctly, growth is from a low base. For road-based growth has the potential both to protect public transport to retain its existing share existing natural resources and to enhance of journeys, given the projected growth in and enlarge them. Indeed many of the the county and the potential increase in trip county’s SSSIs have been created through demand, an increase in passenger journeys development and in particular mineral of 60% on 2001 levels would be required extraction. New development also provides by 2021 (see Figure 8). This is equivalent the opportunity to help fund improvements to approximately 27 million journeys. in biodiversity work across the county. With the scale of congestion already being experienced and forecast, it is apparent that a significant step change in public transport patronage will be required over and above existing levels of growth to achieve public transport patronage levels that contribute towards modal shift and help reduce congestion.

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 13 The Northamptonshire Biodiversity Action Climate Change and Energy Plan (BAP) 2008, sets out action plans for 16 habitats and two species across the Within the lifetimes of most residents county and also identifies a further 158 BAP in Northamptonshire today, climate species that are found in Northamptonshire. change in the county will mean: This plan provides guidelines and targets warmer, drier summers, potentially for protecting and enhancing biodiversity • causing water shortages and which are to be implemented by 2015. problems with overheating • milder, wetter winters, potentially affecting agriculture and the spread of infectious diseases “Managed • increased chance of extreme weather correctly growth such as storms and floods. As Figure 10 below highlights, the size and has the potential speed of the changes depend mainly on both to protect how much carbon dioxide (CO2) is emitted existing natural around the world over the next few decades. This along with other greenhouse gases is resources and cited as the main cause of climate change. to enhance and enlarge them”

Low emissions scenario 2020s 2050s 2080s Change in degrees C 6 5 3 2 1

High emissions scenario 2020s 2050s 2080s 0

Source: UKCIP02 Climate Change Scenarios (funded by Defra, produced by Tyndall and Hadley Centres for UKCIP)

Figure 10 | East Midlands Change in annual daily temperature

14 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report

As a consequence, climate change and The LAA2 (NI186) has already set a target carbon reduction will be a continuing of reducing the per capita use of CO2 in the issue in the years to come. county from a baseline of 8.6 tonnes (2005). The target is to reduce this by 8.9% 2010/11. It In Northamptonshire, broadly a third of is expected that continuing reductions beyond CO2 emissions are produced by industry, a this will be sought in subsequent years. third by transport and a third by domestic emissions. The impact of new development However, even if we prevent the most serious on overall emissions is becoming changes by reducing future emissions, some increasingly important. For example, it is climate change is now inevitable. This is now mandatory for all new homes to have because greenhouse gases emitted in the a rating against the Code for Sustainable past will still have an effect for a long time. Homes. In the future the requirement will Preparing for these changing conditions be for new development, including homes means planning how these might impact and community buildings such as schools, on our infrastructure. For example, we need to meet much higher standards. With to design our buildings to cope with these the scale of the growth agenda facing changes and look for ways to mitigate the Northamptonshire it is particularly important impact of extreme weather events such as that new development demonstrates the flooding, hot weather and severe winters. highest environmental credentials.

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 15 Another key element to tackling climate change and reducing our CO2 emissions against a backcloth of growth will be the way in which we better use our energy resources (gas, electricity, oil, fuel) through more sustainable transport systems, developing a low carbon economy, enabling more domestic housing efficiency savings and exploring the opportunities afforded by renewable energy sources. Employment and the economy Current forecasts, which take account of various factors including commuting (both into and out of the county), suggest that Northamptonshire will need to create more than 100,000 additional jobs between 2001 and 2026 to ensure that employment growth keeps pace with planned housing and reduce the likelihood of increased out-commuting. We are currently behind on this target. In 2007 the highest proportions of businesses in Northamptonshire were engaged in business services (30% of all businesses), wholesale and retail (20%) and construction (11%). The largest sectors in terms of employment were wholesale and retail (19% of employment),

business services (18%) and manufacturing Figure 11 | Index of Multiple Deprivation, 2007 (15%). Businesses in the county are predominately small with 85% employing 10 staff or less. The county has a high work place to residence ratio indicating that a significant number of people live and work locally. The unemployment rate (defined for these purposes as the claimant count) is now 4.2% (17,775 people, in January 2010). The rate is just below the England average of 4.3% and the same as the East Midlands average. There is a general issue in Northamptonshire of low average earnings of employees. This is largely driven by a high number of lower skilled jobs. The LAA2 has a target of increasing

16 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report average weekly earnings from a baseline A more detailed analysis of the of £427 per week (equivalent to an annual Northamptonshire economy will be outlined salary of £22,204 a year) in 2007, compared in the first Local Economic Assessment to the national average of £463, to £470 per which is currently being prepared. This will week (equivalent to £24,440) in 2010/11. This be available for comment in the summer would represent an overall increase of 10%. of 2010 and finalised later in the year. Northamptonshire also has pockets of high deprivation. This includes access to service provision and other services such as health care. Figure 11 illustrates the level of deprivation at Lower Super Output Area level as measured by the Government’s Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) 2007. This illustrates that areas of higher deprivation are located within the urban areas.

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 17 “The Northamptonshire Arc”: Delivering Change

The Northamptonshire All the largest urban areas and the focus of existing population, employment and Sustainable Communities economic activity including patterns of Strategy movement, the bulk of new growth and other development (such as minerals extraction) The Northamptonshire Sustainable lie within this corridor. This corridor also Communities Strategy ‘The Best Place in comprises the focus for the principal England to Grow’ defines the strategic public services and infrastructure including response to these drivers and local context. healthcare, education and learning and also This sets four key ambitions for the county: cultural facilities (such as cinemas, libraries • To be successful through sustainable and galleries). It also includes a significant growth and regeneration stretch of the and the surrounding landscape and the habitats they support. • To develop through having a growing economy and more skilled jobs The Northamptonshire Arc also has an • To have safe and strong communities important strategic context in its location “The • Healthy people who enjoy a relative to the Greater South East as the Northamptonshire good quality of life main component of the Milton Keynes South Midlands Sub-region Housing Arc encompasses A local spatial framework is required to Growth area. It is also at the cross-roads complement the Sustainable Communities an area of of a number of strategic transport and Strategy and provide a ‘place-based’ approach. immense economic arteries including the M1, M6, This framework will help to shape and inform potential” A34/A43/A45, West Coast and Midland Main responses to external drivers and national Lines and the A14. Figure 11 illustrates this agendas. It will take full account of the local strategic context and its relative location context and ambitions, and identify spatial to the Greater South East and the two and other priorities. By doing so it will enable other national Housing Growth areas. appropriate interventions and investments to be brought forward that demonstrate added value and will deliver transformational Spatial approach and outcomes. It will also help to ensure that aspirations Northamptonshire capitalises on its strategic The Northamptonshire Arc encompasses location, access to national networks, other an area of immense potential and one economic strengths and environment- that respects its local heritage and the related opportunities. This framework is environment. It is an area where the towns termed the Northamptonshire Arc. and the rural areas complement each others offers. It is one where local ambitions in Spatial context terms of place-shaping, growth, regeneration In spatial terms, the Northamptonshire and local distinctiveness are supported. Arc represents a broad corridor, running The area will become an outstanding location approximately south-west (from Daventry of choice for innovation-led employment, and Towcester) to north-east (Corby and with top academic and vocational educational Wellingborough/Rushden/Thrapston) attainment and with new housing built with Northampton at the centre. to the highest environmental standards and affordable for local people.

18 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Making this happen will involve excellent recognises the benefits that this can bring connectivity between homes, jobs and to the wider Arc area. It is intended that the superb cultural, recreational and Northampton will gain a reputation as a leisure opportunities on offer. This will place with a thriving riverside providing be centred on providing better transport the focus and heart for its surrounding and digital connections, lowering network of neighbouring communities. It carbon emissions and protecting the will be at the cultural heart of this region outstanding environment of the area. and fulfil a role as the leading retail, entertainment and employment, health and By embracing the benefits of change and learning centre based on a thriving and focusing on quality and growth in the main growing economy and proud of its theatres, towns, the Northamptonshire Arc will blend museums and professional sports teams. the best of modern urban living, enhanced by networks of parks and other green spaces, In the east of the Northamptonshire Arc, with lovely tranquil villages and countryside. Wellingborough will be a focus for high profile offices around the station and a key gateway Northampton will become a major regional to London and the mainland of Europe, via economic centre sitting between the its Eurostar connections at St Pancras, and World City of London and Birmingham. East Northamptonshire a principal focus for The Northamptonshire Arc recognises recreation and tourism and a high quality rural Northampton’s growth offer and its potential living environment. This area will also include a role as a regional economic centre. It also main stretch of the new biodiversity corridor.

SHEFFIELD AND LEEDS NORTH AND NORTHEAST PORTS Map Key To the south, Towcester and Brackley will A1(M) Growth Areas East Rapid Transit Routes be successful, historic market towns, with West Coast Northampton Link Midlands A43 Midland Mainlin Electri„cation Northamptonshire Biodiversity Corridor A6 strong and innovative economies centring A1(M) on high performance engineering. These serve the needs of their rural catchments Birmingham Peterborough IRISH Market Corby A605 Harborough A6 AND M1 A43 and have a good range of local facilities. M6 NORTHWEST A1(M) London - Stansted PORTS M6 A14 Kettering Thrapston Cambridge - Peterborough A14 Located between these towns, will WCML A45 Birmingham A43 A14 A14 HAVEN International Coventry Wellingborough PORTS enhance its status as a world-class sporting A1(M) Rushden A45 Daventry Northampton M11 Cambridge venue, fostering high technology motorsport

A45 M40 Bedford business at the forefront of technology and Towcester MKSM A1(M) M1 underpinned by a state of the art educational

A43 Milton Keynes MML campus and supporting development. M40 Brackley London WCML Stansted Luton Luton Airport Parkway At the western edge of the Northamptonshire A1(M) Arc, Daventry will be an invigorated historic M1 M11 Oxford M25 A43 with jobs at the cutting edge of M40 SOUTH PORTS Thames Gateway environmental technologies and sustainable London London City CARDIFF AND M4 building, offering attractive retail opportunities BRISTOL London Heathrow M25 for the town and surrounding area.

M25

M2 DOVER AND London Gatwick M23 CHANNEL TUNNEL

Figure 12 | Strategic Location of the Northamptonshire Arc

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 19 In the north of the Northamptonshire Arc, To achieve these outcomes we need to Corby will be recognised for its strengths in identify strategic priorities, key interventions manufacturing and in sports provision and and iconic infrastructure proposals. as a role model for successful regeneration Together these will form a Transformational and growth. Kettering will be a main retail Agenda for Northamptonshire. centre and a focus for healthcare. Outcome - Transformed Proposed Outcomes Connectivity Three thematic outcomes underpin Exploitation of the Northamptonshire’s central the Northamptonshire Arc and these location linking the Greater South East and spatial aspirations. These are: Midlands is crucial to economic success. This • Transformed connectivity location is enhanced by the number of key strategic arteries which run through it or Leadership on climate change & biodiversity • close to it. This is illustrated in Figure 13. • A stronger and greener economy These outcomes are inter-connected and Four nationally led projects are fundamental complementary. For example, economic to improved external connectivity success depends on connectivity and and generating growth through new our response to both will impact on jobs and opportunities. These are: climate change and biodiversity. • HS2, High Speed Rail Line between London and the Midlands • Upgrades to the Midland Mainline • M1 improvements Map Key Towns A14 investment SHEFFIELD AND LEEDS NORTH AND NORTHEAST PORTS Railway Stations • Railway Links M1 A1(M) Northamptonshire Biodiversity Corridor

Derby Rail connectivity MML A43 Nottingham East Midlands Stamford The proposal for a new High Speed Rail A1(M) Leicester A43 Line (termed HS2) between London and the A6 Market Birmingham Eurohub Harborough Peterborough Corby Midlands initially, and then the north, has the Birmingham M1 International A1(M) potential to bring major economic benefits M6 A14 WCML Thrapston Rugby Kettering Rugby Huntingdon D.I.R.F.T. to Northamptonshire. This could involve Coventry A43 A14 A14 Wellingborough A1(M) M45 A45 significantly better services on the existing Rushden M11 Northampton A45 Felixstowe West Coast Main Line as high speed paths and M40 A428 Bedford Cambridge Harwick Towcester connections to the inter-city network are freed MML A6 M1 A5 A421 A1(M) M11 A43 up by services transferring to the new Line.

Brackley Milton Keynes King’s Sutton London Stansted Luton Strategic Priority 1 – Support the Luton Airport Parkway CHILTERN LINE WCML M1 opportunities provided by the HS2 proposal London St.Pancras Marylebone London Heathrow Oxford to secure better inter-city connections London Southampton Euston London Heathrow Waterloo London Gatwick London Eurostar Ashford Eurostar

Dover

Figure 13 | External connectivity of Northamptonshire

20 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Upgrades to the Midland Main Line, including Road connectivity electrification northwards of Bedford into the county and north to Sheffield, have the Strategic road connections are crucial to potential to improve connections to services economic growth. Further improvements to across London, reduce pollution (estimated the M1 could have major implications for CO2 saving of 40%), and enable reliable Northamptonshire, particularly in relation journey times of under 45 minutes to London to proposals for hard shoulder running from Northamptonshire. It is important that and ramp-metering. The implications of improvements benefit Northamptonshire Arc such measures will need to be carefully and a frequency of high speed services serve assessed, including any impact on the Northamptonshire and take advantage of local network and congestion. access to long distance services including the The A14 provides international, national and international Eurostar services via St Pancras. local connections east-west. However, it Strategic Priority 2 – Secure a minimum suffers from congestion which would be made of two fast services (with journey times of worse by future growth. As a result further less than 40 minutes) per hour from the investment is essential. It is also clear that Northamptonshire Arc to London on both significant growth in the north of the county, the West Coast and Midland Main Lines particularly in relation to Corby and Kettering, will be inhibited without further investment in Strategic Priority 3 – Better rail connections the A14. This is notwithstanding the current and reduced journey times to Birmingham, investment in improvements around Kettering. Manchester and other major centres Strategic Priority 5 – Utilise the potential Strategic Priority 4 – Optimise the provided by new technology and other measures potential benefits provided by the to secure better reliability on the existing connections to Eurostar services strategic national road network which connect the Northamptonshire Arc with other areas

“The Arc area is at the strategic cross-roads of key transport and economic arteries including the M1, M6, A14, A34/43/45 and the West Coast and Mildand Main Lines”

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 21 Strategic Priority 6 – Secure investment due to the strategic role the route plays as and improvements to the strategic a link with the South Coast ports and M4 road network to support economic (via the A34), the M1/M6 (which connects growth in the Northamptonshire Arc the midlands and north), and the A14 (which provides a link with the East Coast The MKSM Inter-urban Transport Strategy ports). This route currently represents a and other work indicate that the A43/A45 “national infrastructure gap” in the strategic through Northamptonshire, and especially network and there is a strong case for its around Northampton, is showing significant re-designation as a strategic national network pressures. Further capacity issues are also alongside the A14 and other key routes. With forecast at junctions around Towcester and or without this re-designation, significant Wellingborough up to 2021. This is largely investment is needed to tackle congestion and its wider costs particularly on the approaches to Northampton. Indeed, similar to the A14, it is clear that economic growth and prosperity will be inhibited without further investment.

Map Key North Rapid Transit Routes MML Electri cation Strategic Priority 7 – Gain recognition Northamptonshire Biodiversity Corridor for the A34/A43/A45 between the M4 Capacity and Demand Measures Market Harborough and A14 as an ‘infrastructure gap’ in Strategic Route Redesignation A6 Corby New Station A43 the strategic national network Urban transit and Interchange Improvements Inter-urban Infrastructure Improvements

To Birmingham M1

To East Coast Ports It is clear that some local road improvements M6 A14 Kettering Thrapston will be essential to address existing A14 deficits and facilitate growth within the WCML A45

To Coventry Northamptonshire Arc. These include A6 A43 M45 on the following connections:

Wellingborough Rushden A45 • Corby and Kettering (including the Corby Link Road) Northampton A45 Daventry • Kettering and Wellingborough (including To Cambridge A428 the Isham Bypass and Isham to A45 Wellingborough Improvements) Bedford • Northampton and Kettering Towcester • Northampton and Wellingborough

To Barnbury M1 • Northampton and Daventry (including A5 the Flore-Weedon Bypass) A43 Other improvements, including those needed A6 Milton MML to key urban orbital and radial routes and Brackley Keynes M40 problem junctions within Northampton and

WCML the other growth centres, will also be needed Luton to ensure the effective operation of the road Luton Airport Parkway network and release economic growth. This To Oxford To London To London and Eurostar connections includes the need for a Towcester Bypass at Figure 14 | Possible Northamptonshire Arc Transit network (incorporating Midland Main Line electrification) the southern end of the Northamptonshire Arc.

22 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report From a health, congestion and climate while road improvements will of necessity change perspective, good urban design that have to form part of the overall programme takes account of the needs of cyclists and of works addressing the needs of the pedestrians, offering safety and convenience county and existing infrastructure deficits through dedicated cycle lanes, for example, through targeted investment, developments can help tip the balance in favour of active, in other modes will also be essential. carbon free travel for shorter journeys. This can also contribute, if done well and in the The MKSM Inter-Urban Transport Strategy right place, to removing traffic from our roads. indicates that there is significant potential for improvements to the inter-urban bus network, Strategic Priority 8 – Deliver improved including its scope, its operation and its quality reliability and resilience on the of service. The biggest challenges to this are Northamptonshire Arc road network arguably a negative perception of roads-based by utilising a package of measures, public transport offer in Northamptonshire including new technologies (in comparison with the car), availability of information, and unpredictability of Strategic Priority 9 – Improve the journey times by public transport due to Northamptonshire Arc (urban and congestion within the urban areas. inter-urban) road network where this is needed to support economic growth A series of studies and investigations have and as part of comprehensive approach analysed growth on the transport network which also incorporates investment to and identified problem corridors. Potential support public transport, low carbon options and solutions have been looked at modes and ‘smarter choices’ against the Government ‘DaSTS’ goals. The findings indicate that no single project offers Inter and intra-urban mass the step change in public transport needed. However, one project has been identified transit which acts as a foundation for addressing the Traffic growth in the county is already forecast increase in demand for travel, and extremely high by national standards. managing its impact on the transport network, Increasing population density, if left and without which it is believed success will unaddressed, will lead to increasingly high and not be sustainable. This is the development undesirable levels of congestion and pollution. of a high quality Northamptonshire Arc This will increase costs to businesses and make Transit (NAT) network. This complements the county less attractive to investment. the promotion of electrification of the Midland Main Line (MML) and other strategic The success of the Northamptonshire Arc interventions in the Transformational Agenda. concept, and the three outcomes identified above including transforming connectivity, A new NAT network would utilise modern will only be achieved if local residents are technology such as active demand management able to access jobs, education and public and real time information to make efficient services using a sustainable transport use of the existing and new infrastructure and system. Furthermore, high quality transport ensure traffic moves smoothly. Mass transit connectivity creating a realigned set of links between the main urban centres (and options, choice and independence for those town centres) and growth locations within without access to the car, is crucial. Indeed, the Arc will transform internal connectivity.

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 23 To support the infrastructure improvements, Delivery and funding a programme of Smarter Travel projects will provide tailored information and incentives The Northamptonshire Arc provides a clear and support behaviour change. It would and bold agenda which is able to lead also help to ensure that the benefits of new and shape change, but is also adaptable investment are ‘locked in’. An indicative MML and responsive. This is not a short term and NAT network is illustrated in Figure 14. approach. It needs a longer-term strategic view. The priorities listed in Appendix 1 and Strategic Priority 10 – Secure support for the interventions listed in Appendix 2 are and implement a Northamptonshire Arc Mass all key pieces in the connectivity jigsaw. Transit urban and inter-urban network (NAT) Some interventions can be delivered quickly Strategic Priority 11 – Ensure that major and at a relatively low-cost. These include growth locations provide connections ”congestion busting” measures within the to and support the Northamptonshire towns, the “travel centres programme” Arc Mass Transit network and “on-demand travel information”. These important, and relatively low-cost, Strategic Priority 12 – Identify and interventions will help to ensure that best use deliver the first ‘pilot’ phase (subject is made of the existing network and travel to funding) of a Northamptonshire choices and also promote new opportunities. Arc Mass Transit network by 2013 This also includes first phases on the NAT network particularly within the urban areas and where growth is underway. In parallel with this, work will need to be accelerated on priority medium and longer-term transformational interventions to ensure

24 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report that Northamptonshire is well placed to Without this approach, tackling both external benefit from the economic recovery, attract and internal connectivity, the support and investment, and able to manage the step investment required from Government and change in housing growth which is expected.. the private sector cannot be delivered. Viability is a crucial issue, particularly Leadership on Climate in the current economic climate, and Northamptonshire is conscious that there Change and Biodiversity will be significant constraints on the public The drivers impacting the county include a purse. A principal source of funding number of ‘environmental’ issues, including will be ‘Section 106’ funds from new climate change, healthier living, conservation, development, especially where projects have the promotion of biodiversity and the need been identified to help mitigate the impact to promote sustainable new communities. of new housing or other development. Northamptonshire County Council already Climate Change and Energy operates a ‘pooled’ approach for Section 106 Northamptonshire has produced a contributions for transport improvements in Climate Change Strategy for 2010- the Northamptonshire Arc towns. Because 2014 which sets out a framework for of the scale and pace of development in individual and collective action to: Northamptonshire, Section 106 funds will need to be supplemented with other 1. Raise awareness of the issues of funding. This includes Growth-related Climate Change and its impact funding and mainstream transport funding on Northamptonshire from Government. These funding streams are essential to help release growth and 2. Reduce greenhouse gas the income it will generate both locally emissions across the county and nationally. Other innovative forms of 3. Plan for and adapt to the inevitable funding need to be and are being explored. impacts of Climate Change Through this approach, Northamptonshire’s Councils are working on their own strategies to intention is that it is not overly reliant on reduce their CO2 emissions. Northamptonshire mainstream Government funding to deliver County Council is working on a ‘Low Carbon its ambitions for transforming connectivity. Leadership’ strategy to substantially reduce This means that to deliver the highlighted its own CO2 emissions. This will also embrace transformational interventions and to opportunities for renewable energy and provide the maximum flexibility, it is taking demonstration projects. Projects like this a programme-led approach. This will help are further developed across organisations to optimise the potential from all the main with the input of the Countywide Climate funding streams. It also reflects the intrinsic Change Officers’ Group. These include linkages and interdependencies between emerging local ideas concerning carbon the interventions and the need to deliver reduction programmes such as ‘Carbon Sink the connectivity jigsaw as a whole. This is Forests’ promoted by Forestry Commission. essential if the outcome of transformed connectivity is to be achieved to the full.

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 25 The Northamptonshire Arc will provide a Biodiversity context that allows these interventions to be combined to give added value and support. Some of these ‘environmental’ drivers can be addressed, in part, through utilising opportunities Pivotal to the success of this approach provided by the county’s waterways and in will be the development of a ‘low carbon particular the River Nene and the neighbouring economy’ for Northamptonshire where: landscape. This is already recognised as an internationally important area for wetland • all waste is minimised – via birds and has some of the best opportunities reduce, reuse, recycle; for large scale wetland habitat restoration • energy is produced using low carbon linked to the re-use of former mineral sites. energy sources and methods – via renewable & alternative energy sources, The Northamptonshire Biodiversity Action fuels and sequestration (CO2 storage); Plan (BAP) will provide the initial guidance • all resources (in particular energy) are on projects that improve biodiversity used efficiently – via more efficient levels across Northamptonshire. energy conversion devices, combined A key transformational intervention involves the heat & power, district heating; creation of a new strategic Biodiversity Corridor. • wherever practical local needs are served This corridor would extend from Daventry in by local production – food, materials, the west to Thrapston in the east. Although energy, local supply chains; and extending more broadly, it is primarily focused • higher awareness and compliance on the River Nene and will promote safe and with environmental and social healthy local environment, with well-designed responsibility initiatives – by industry, and accessible public and green spaces. It will commerce and individuals. provide a combination of new habitats and This will require a collective approach and excellent recreation and leisure opportunities. a significant step change in the way we do The River Nene in the east of the Arc contains things now to make a low carbon economy a wide range of wetland habitats with huge a reality in Northamptonshire in the future. potential for connecting them up. Other Strategic Priority 13 – Support ‘low- important areas include the Yardley and carbon growth’ through reducing the Whittlewood Ridge in the south, the sandy impact of development on climate change and limestone grasslands in the west, the Rockingham Forest and the network of ancient woodlands and flower-rich grasslands in the north of the Northamptonshire Arc. There are important factors underpinning the direction and implementation of the biodiversity agenda and the creation of a Strategic Biodiversity Corridor. For example, it is important to strengthen the integration between urban areas, locations for new growth and the rural areas. It is also essential to protect sensitive areas and the natural environment. This can be achieved in part through effective land management. 26 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report The county’s BAP identifies that strengthening Flooding should be minimised through careful biodiversity is key to sustainable development. planning in the positioning of developments. As well as increasing the desirability of the A reduction in habitat fragmentation should area, which in turn brings economic benefits be maintained and other measures in the through visitors, it also provides climatic challenge to reduce energy use and tackle stability through functioning life-support climate change should be undertaken in systems. Conservation of wildlife and the order to relieve pressure on the landscape enhancement of the character of the area and maintain an environment that is all contribute to the biodiversity agenda. complementary to the wildlife that inhabits it. Whilst this is high a priority, it is also important What is good for wildlife is also good for to ensure that access and enjoyment of existing and future communities. By linking “It is important protected areas is provided. This can be up existing sites and creating a functioning to strengthen achieved through investing in conservation network of wildlife movement corridors we and recreational facilities to create greater will allow wildlife to thrive and adapt to the integration enjoyment for residents and visitors alike. climate change. This will involve protecting between Investing in waterside areas and the waterways and enlarging existing areas ranging from urban and is another way of supporting biodiversity and wetlands to natural green spaces in urban rural areas” at the same time increase visitor enjoyment areas. These provide reservoirs of plants and and make these areas desirable places that animals which can colonise other areas and people will want to visit. This approach popular destinations for recreational pursuits. can also support the rural economy by promoting a thriving, sustainable and forward Recent initiatives, including Stanwick Lakes thinking living and working countryside. and Irchester Country Park at the eastern end of the Northamptonshire Arc, Daventry To further support and strengthen biodiversity, and Brixworth Country Parks in the west, ‘living landscapes’ (i.e. large areas of rich and Salcey Forest in the south, illustrate habitat), strategic tree planting and sustainable the potential for such an approach. drainage systems are all a vital part of green infrastructure. Looking into the choice of From a health perspective, the quality of our land uses and carefully selecting which crops outdoor environment has a direct influence are grown can add to the areas increased upon levels of physical activity. The opportunity photosynthetic capability, which in turn to explore safe, attractive and interesting increases CO2 absorption. This aids climate areas can be a significant motivator for stability and contributes to this at a local level. recreational walking and cycling. Natural environments offer important settings The biodiversity agenda provides a valuable for health-enhancing physical activity. opportunity to understand and benefit from our enjoyment of the natural environment. Future activities will include mapping out To achieve the required outcomes, all opportunities associated with the corridor, efforts towards increasing biodiversity and better management of existing sites, restoring adapting to climate change should support new sites and creating new sites and linkages the BAP. Where appropriate, new planting and promoting understanding and pride and extensions to woodlands should be in local areas and their distinctiveness. undertaken to aid in the absorption of CO2.

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 27 The Biodiversity Corridor will also help to Employment and Skills demonstrate that Northamptonshire is leading the way in delivering greener growth. Having the right skills is crucial to sustained growth and being able to adapt to change. Strategic Priority 14 – Establish and support Although Northamptonshire performs well a new multi-functional strategic Biodiversity against national levels for Level 4 (i.e. degree Corridor with linkages to the main towns equivalent) qualifications, further investment and effort is needed to maintain and enhance A stronger and greener the right skills levels needed to attract economy higher value activities and new employers and to utilise the opportunities provided The economic success of the growth in new sectors of the economy. Northamptonshire Arc will be achieved The housing growth agenda provides a “Northamptonshire by building on its existing strengths and competitive edges. Northamptonshire has the potential economic opportunity. A long has been at privileged position of being at the centre of term solution is needed to ensure that the the heart of the world’s motorsport industry. In particular, skills and jobs required for the construction the Formula 1 this includes high performance engineering. and built environment sectors are delivered industry since The iconic circuit of Silverstone, for example, locally. Projects such as Construction 1950 when is home to successful industrial and Futures, the Northampton Vocational Silverstone educational developments, as is Rockingham, Centre and local skills centres will help us which is working on the development of a achieve this through direct investment. hosted the first new Education Centre. Northampton is also The UK is a world leader in creative industries. F1 Grand Prix” home to the globally recognised Cosworth This sector has significant potential in Engineering brand, which reinforces our Northamptonshire and this is already being pedigree in this sector, as well as Ilmor nurtured through the new Portfolio Innovation Engineering, who have been developing Centre in Northampton which is located at and manufacturing Formula 1 and IndyCar the University. Further activity is needed to engines for over 25 years. There are also realise the potential provided by this sector other numerous other centres of engineering which is typically highly skilled and qualified to excellence linked to this sector within the Arc. Level 3 and above. Attracting these businesses From a logistics viewpoint, we are at the will help to create higher value jobs. leading edge in the UK. This is largely Capitalising on Northamptonshire’s strong because Northamptonshire is ideally placed heritage and tourism offer is important. with its central location and excellent This includes destination management and transport links by road, rail and air. We also promotion such as via the ‘Let Yourself Grow’ host businesses from all over the world. campaign. Targeted public realm investments Many of these are located in the main such as Northampton’s Market Square, can towns and business parks within the Arc. also help to attract investment and visitors. Raising pupil attainment and school performance is also critical to attract prospective employers. Northamptonshire is in competition with other areas and young people need to have the necessary

28 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report skills to fulfil their potential. Investment a major contribution to growing and greening in schools to ensure that they have the the local economy, increasing competitiveness, capacity to support growth and provide the raising its contribution to Gross Domestic necessary opportunities is hugely important. Product (GDP) and increasing incomes. It is Schools also have an important role to vital that there are STEM-related jobs available play at the centre of local communities. locally for young people. Priority sectors include construction/built environment, engineering, Strategic Priority 15 – Secure, target logistics, creative and business services. and deliver investment in schools to raise attainment, improve performance, Strategic Priority 16 – Identify and widen opportunity, support economic implement measures to ensure that growth and strengthen their role at Northamptonshire becomes a leader in the centre of local communities Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) related activities and sectors A new approach and relationship is needed especially working with the trade associations It is also important to raise the profile of and employer representatives. Sector Skills an enterprising culture to ensure that it Councils need to be involved in diplomas, is embedded across all areas, including schools and apprenticeships. This will help enhancing links between learning and give the business edge to training and help skills providers and businesses. This make our young people work ready. Support includes encouraging stronger links is also needed for people not in employment, between businesses and schools focused education or training (NEETs) and other on enterprising activities such as through disadvantaged groups and individuals. the Young Enterprise initiative. The governance and environment for skills Enterprise and Innovation development is changing through the new 14-19 agenda. We need to ensure that Support for enterprise and innovation is service delivery is seamless, joined-up and pivotal to a competitive and prosperous continues to respond to the needs and economy. Looking ahead, the future economic aspirations for the local economy. Effective success of Northamptonshire largely depends partnership mechanisms need to be in place on it being able to embrace knowledge and to address worklessness issues. A good technology intensive sectors. These have the example of this is the existing activity potential to create additional jobs and wealth through the Future Jobs Fund programme and increase productivity levels. They also have which will create 500 new temporary job the potential to utilise opportunities provided opportunities during 2010 and 2011. by the low carbon agenda. Crucial to this is high-speed fibre optic broadband provision. Looking ahead to activity in 2010/11 and beyond, priority areas for activity include The Northamptonshire Arc generally ensuring that skills progression delivers higher achieves download speeds above 2mbps. level skills and, in particular, raises the profile However, parts of Northampton and and participation in Science, Technology, Kettering still suffer from slow download Engineering, Maths (STEM) activities. This will spots and are still someway off achieving support Northamptonshire’s strengths in High the target set within the Government’s Performance Engineering. Moreover, the wider Digital Britain report of every home having STEM related sectors have the potential to make at least 2mbps broadband by 2012.

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 29 Looking ahead, it is clear that compliance the Northamptonshire Arc. In addition, there with this target will not be enough to meet are numerous companies providing a valued local ambitions and attract investment to supply chain to the motorsport industry, the area, particularly in knowledge-based including 450 high performance engineering and innovation sectors. An improvement companies who employ over 10,400 staff. in digital networks will be complementary to the transformed connectivity outcome. The Masterplan has It supports the ability to provide up to the the potential to generate 3,000 new minute travel information and reduce the need jobs through commercial, education to travel with improved access in the home. and leisure related development. The This will enable increasing numbers of people objectives of the Masterplan are: to work and access services from home • To improve track-related facilities to A priority for the Northamptonshire Arc modern Grand Prix standards and is to have a fibre optic network in place promote Silverstone as the home of which delivers speeds far in excess of the British motorsport and racing Digital Britain targets and enables it to • To enhance and strengthen Silverstone offer the best in next generation digital circuit as a centre of automotive and connectivity. This in turn will help to high technology excellence for the UK attract, and indeed retain, knowledge and • To create opportunities for the development technology intensive sectors and businesses. of employment and sustainable economic growth by attracting business, education and Enabling infrastructure includes “fibre in active outdoor tourism of the highest quality the ground” to areas of new housing and other developments and upgrading existing • To provide an attractive venue for exchanges. It also involves ensuring that leisure activities enabling development new exchanges enable the best in next that is sustainable both in terms of generation connectivity and the provision its construction and operation of ‘above the ground’ technology to allow • To create a development that integrates improved connectivity for all areas including well into its local environment and which the more rural parts of Northamptonshire. provides an attractive countryside setting for high value and scale enterprises Strategic Priority 17- Make Northamptonshire to locate and develop, including a compelling business case for next cultural and physical landscapes generation digital connectivity • To develop sustainable transport The Northamptonshire Arc supports existing and innovative access proposals key sectors and clusters such as in the High • To shape a development which will be Performance Engineering and Motorsport complementary to, and not in conflict industries based in the wider Silverstone area. with, the growth plans of Towcester The presence of the Silverstone motor racing Strategic Priority 18 – Support high- circuit in the south of the county has been performance engineering and motorsport a significant contributing factor towards industries in Northamptonshire and the the creation of a specialised cluster of high role of Silverstone as the focal point performance engineering companies servicing for automotive and high technology the needs of the motor sport industry. This excellence in the UK and worldwide sector has an annual turnover of £0.6 billion in

30 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report The skills attracted to and developed in the Northamptonshire sits at the hub of county and surrounding areas can be a England’s logistics industry and as such the catalyst for growth in other high performance skills needed to assemble, sort and dispatch sectors, and also emerging sectors associated large volumes of goods are present in large with developing a ‘low carbon’ economy. This quantities. However, with the ever increasing can help halt and in time reverse the decline speed with which data can move around the in manufacturing in the county. Development country and the world, there will be a growing in this area should contribute ‘better’ or demand for large volumes to be assembled higher value jobs, thus contributing to sorted and dispatched in an analogous way economic growth. An early initiative involves to the way which goods are handled. The the development of a High Performance increasing demand for internet TV, video Engineering (motorsport) Strategy. on demand and high quality downloads of premium content will require new ways The new iCon facility at Daventry which of ‘packing and dispatching’ the product is dedicated to promoting and fostering to the end user. The opportunity exists for innovation in construction has a key role to the county to develop the infrastructure play in building services and engineering- and skills needed to meet this demand, based innovation. This facility will open in building on its historic capabilities in the 2010/11. The environmental implications logistics environment. Excellent digital of this work have the potential to establish connectivity will be crucial to success. Northamptonshire as a leader in low carbon technologies and we need to ensure we capitalise on this potential early on. Waste management is a growing sector in Northamptonshire, particularly with the pressure to divert more waste away from landfill to more sustainable methods of treatment and management. A centre of excellence for waste management is based at Northampton University. This sector has “Development considerable potential for further growth and in this area innovation which needs to be harnessed. should Strategic Priority 19 – Ensure that contribute Northamptonshire is an exemplar for construction-based innovation and ‘better’ or delivery of low-carbon growth higher value jobs”

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 31 Regeneration and town Northampton a Growing centres Regional Economic Centre The future economic and wider health The economic success of the Northamptonshire of Northamptonshire relies to a large Arc depends on Northampton and its central degree on the success of its town centres. area playing a pivotal role for the wider These need to once again become the region and fulfilling its potential. Therefore, focus of economic and other activity. It is developing the role of Northampton as a essential that much of the new jobs growth new regional centre is a high priority. This which is required to keep pace with new includes utilising the scope and regeneration housing is located in the town centres. opportunities provided by the riverside. This will only be achieved through creating Northampton will perform the dominant the right climate for investment. Central to role as the commercial, cultural and retail this is identifying, promoting and bringing heart of the Northamptonshire Arc and forward investment opportunities. Sometimes wider region. It is already the focus of much this will involve the public sector playing of the planned housing and job growth. a lead role, particularly where economic Action is needed to address the barriers viability or land ownership may be a challenge which are currently inhibiting it performing to regeneration. The County Council’s this role. Without this, public and private Fit for Market programme is an example sector investment, including retail spend, will of one form of intervention. Improving continue to be lost to the county either to connectivity is also important to attract nearby competing centres such as Leicester, private sector investment and encourage Milton Keynes, Peterborough or further afield. new employers to locate in town centres. A transformational intervention which Key town centre regeneration projects are complements this role and the establishment being identified through the Area Action Plans. of the NAT network is the proposal for the The Northamptonshire Arc will provide further regeneration of Northampton Castle station. support to this by promoting infrastructure and This will provide a new station facility, investment needed to support town centres. additional parking, better facilities for users and an iconic gateway for Northampton. The public sector also has an important Detailed design and planning work is already role to play in terms of asset utilisation underway involving Network Rail and local i.e. making the best use of property. This partners. This project will release land for mixed has the potential to reduce costs, generate uses incorporating residential and commercial income and capital receipts which can be development, and an improved public realm. reinvested in service delivery and act as a catalyst for regeneration and growth.

32 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Two other transformational projects which Stronger urban areas complement the regeneration of the waterside and Castle Station areas are the expansion Support for Northampton as a regional centre of the Grosvenor Centre, which will involve does not mean that the other towns should the demolition of the Greyfriars Bus Station not see major investment. Corby, Kettering, and a potential new office development led Wellingborough and Daventry in particular by the County Council. A further project have important roles to play as centres involves the transformation of the Market for significant growth and regeneration. Square to enable it to become once again a Both public and private sector investment thriving area and the focal point for the town. will be important to their success. Strategic Priority 20 – Support the economic The regeneration of Corby town centre is growth of Northampton to enable it to become an excellent example of the role a proactive a powerful and growing regional centre public sector can play. The Corby Cube (see Figure 16), which is currently under Strategic Priority 21 – Focus attention to construction, is a key urban regeneration regenerate Northampton’s central area to project for the town and an important enable it to become the commercial, cultural community building. This has received and retail heart of the Northamptonshire an excellent BREAM rating highlighting Arc and the focus for new employment its sustainable credentials. Plans for the and other economic activity regeneration and expansion of Daventry town centre are also advanced, as are those for Kettering and Wellingborough. The focus on improving connectivity will help to ensure that the benefits of investment and growth are shared. Other towns such as Rushden, Towcester and Brackley also have clear ambitions for regeneration which require support. The role of smaller towns and the rural areas is also important and access to services will be a crucial issue to address. Strategic Priority 22 – Support the key growth centres of Corby, Daventry, Kettering, Towcester and Wellingborough and the important role of other towns, particularly Rushden, in relation to their regeneration plans and ambitions

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 33 Employment Land Making it happen A readily available supply of employment “A readily sites and land is critical to continued The emerging Northamptonshire available economic growth. However, this needs Arc spatial concept has already supply of to be in sustainable locations particularly provided the context for preparing employment in terms of its impact on the transport the Northamptonshire Sub-Regional network. Bringing forward town centre sites, sites and land Investment Plan (SRIP) for 2010/11- particularly for commercial and office-related 2012/13. This has recently been approved is critical” businesses, retail and leisure uses, will be by the East Midlands Development a priority. These should be complemented Agency (emda) and has helped to secure by a supply of land in other sustainable continued Single Programme funding locations to meet the needs of existing and for Northamptonshire in 2010/11. This new businesses and meet job targets. funding will be vital to help manage Any adverse impact of bringing forward the impact of the recession and support employment land on the environment economic growth and support some of needs to be minimised. This can be done the activities highlighted in this report. in part through targeting brownfield land Looking ahead, the Northamptonshire opportunities and utilising low carbon Arc and the Transformational Agenda will technologies. A key mechanism for help to shape and guide the formulation supporting activity is the County Council’s and content of important new documents Fit for Market programme which is designed and investment plans. These include the to stimulate private sector investment first statutory Local Economic Assessment to bring forward sites and premises. and the Single Conversation between These interventions are crucial to tackling the Homes & Communities Agency and some of the impacts of the current local authorities in Northamptonshire recession and also importantly helping to and the Core Strategies for North and combat arguably the most significant risk West Northamptonshire. It will also to Northamptonshire that, regardless of provide the context for the preparation targets, jobs will not keep pace with houses. of a new style Connectivity Strategy. This will encompass the next Local Transport Strategic Priority 23 – Support activities Plan. The intention is also to produce a to bring forward employment sites and series of prospectuses which focus on ensure that the town centres in the specific aspects of the Northamptonshire Northamptonshire Arc are the focus Arc. The first of these will be a for much of the new commercial and Transforming Connectivity Prospectus. employment-related development Others will include Environment & Biodiversity and the Economy.

34 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Appendix A

The Northamptonshire Arc: Strategic Priority 9 – Improve the Northamptonshire Arc (urban and ‘The Big Idea’ inter-urban) road network where this Proposed Outcomes and Strategic is needed to support economic growth Priorities and as part of comprehensive approach which also incorporates investment to Outcome: Transformed connectivity support public transport, low carbon Strategic Priority 1 – Support the modes and ‘smarter choices’ opportunities provided by the HS2 proposal to secure better inter-city connections Strategic Priority 10 – Secure support for and implement a Northamptonshire Arc Mass Strategic Priority 2 – Secure a minimum Transit urban and inter-urban network (NAT) of two fast services (with journey times of less than 40 minutes) per hour from the Strategic Priority 11 – Ensure that major Northamptonshire Arc to London on both growth locations provide connections the West Coast and Midland Main Lines to and support the Northamptonshire Arc Mass Transit network Strategic Priority 3 – Better rail connections and reduced journey times to Birmingham, Strategic Priority 12 – Identify and Manchester and other major centres deliver the first ‘pilot’ phase (subject to funding) of a Northamptonshire Strategic Priority 4 – Optimise the Arc Mass Transit network by 2013 potential benefits provided by the connections to Eurostar services Outcome: Leadership on climate change & biodiversity Strategic Priority 5 – Utilise the Strategic Priority 13 – Support ‘low- potential provided by new technology carbon growth’ through reducing the and other measures to secure better impact of development on climate change reliability on the existing strategic national road network which connect the Strategic Priority 14 – Establish and support Northamptonshire Arc with other areas a new multi-functional strategic Biodiversity Corridor with linkages to the main towns Strategic Priority 6 – Secure investment and improvements to the strategic Outcome: A stronger and greener economy road network to support economic Strategic Priority 15 – Secure, target growth in the Northamptonshire Arc and deliver investment in schools to raise attainment, improve performance, Strategic Priority 7 – Gain recognition widen opportunity, support economic for the A34/A43/A45 between the M4 growth and strengthen their role at and A14 as an ‘infrastructure gap’ in the centre of local communities the strategic national network Strategic Priority 16 – Identify and Strategic Priority 8 – Deliver improved implement measures to ensure that reliability and resilience on the Northamptonshire becomes a leader in Northamptonshire Arc road network Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths by utilising a package of measures, (STEM) related activities and sectors including new technologies

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 35 Strategic Priority 17- Make Northamptonshire a compelling business case for next generation digital connectivity Strategic Priority 18 – Support high- performance engineering and motorsport industries in Northamptonshire and the role of Silverstone as the focal point for automotive and high technology excellence in the UK and worldwide Strategic Priority 19 – Ensure that Northamptonshire is an exemplar for construction-based innovation and delivery of low-carbon growth Strategic Priority 20 – Support the economic growth of Northampton to enable it to become a powerful and growing regional centre Strategic Priority 21 – Focus attention to regenerate Northampton’s central area to enable it to become the commercial, cultural and retail heart of the Northamptonshire Arc and the focus for new employment and other economic activity Strategic Priority 22 – Support the key growth centres of Corby, Daventry, Kettering, Towcester and Wellingborough and the important role of other towns, particularly Rushden, in relation to their regeneration plans and ambitions Strategic Priority 23 – Support activities to bring forward employment sites and ensure that the town centres in the Northamptonshire Arc are the focus for much of the new commercial and employment-related development

36 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Appendix B

The Northamptonshire Arc: ‘Delivering Change’ The Transformational Agenda

Lead Arc Relevant Key milestones and Project/Activity Category Sponsor Thematic Strategic delivery timescale Outcome Priority

Nationally Transformed 1, 2, 3 Government White Paper High Speed Rail (HS2) To be confirmed led Connectivity in March 2010

Midland Main Line Nationally Transformed Rail Electrification To be confirmed 1, 2, 3, 4 To be confirmed led Connectivity to Sheffield West Coast Main Nationally Transformed Line Path and Speed To be confirmed 1, 2, 3, 4 To be confirmed led Connectivity enhancements A14 capacity and Nationally Transformed Highways Agency 5, 6 Initial works underway demand measures led Connectivity M1 capacity and Nationally Transformed Highways Agency 5, 6 To be confirmed demand measures led Connectivity A34/A43/A45 designation as part of Northamptonshire Transformed Locally led 5, 6, 7 To be confirmed the National Strategic County Council Connectivity Road Network A43/A45 Key Junctions Northamptonshire Technical studies due to report and Approaches County Council Transformed 5, 6, 7, 8, mid 2010. A5 improvements Locally led Package including with the Connectivity 9, 10 and timing dependent on A5 improvements Highways Agency development at Towcester Northampton Orbital & Northamptonshire Transformed 8, 9, 10, Informed by first stage Locally led Radial Improvements County Council Connectivity 11,12 DaSTS report in mid 2010 Initial concept through ‘Northamptonshire Northamptonshire Transformed 5, 6, 8, 9. 10, business case, to detailed Locally led Arc’ Transit network County Council Connectivity 11, 12, 13 scheme design, approvals and implementation from 2010/11 West Northamptonshire Northampton Castle Development Transformed 1, 2, 3, 10, Locally led GRIP4 stage report late 2010 Station redevelopment Corporation with Connectivity 20, 21, 23 Northamptonshire County Council Northampton Central Transformed 10, 13, Locally led To be confirmed Technical work underway Bus Interchange Connectivity 20, 21

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 37 Lead Arc Relevant Key milestones and Project/Activity Category Sponsor Thematic Strategic delivery timescale Outcome Priority Daventry to Northampton Dependent on development connectivity Northamptonshire Transformed 8, 9, 10, Locally led at Daventry. Appeal decision improvements, County Council Connectivity 11, 20, 22 expected in mid 2010. including A45 Flore- Weedon Bypass Kettering to Wellingborough connectivity Northamptonshire Transformed 8, 9, 10, Construction of Isham Bypass improvements, including Locally led County Council Connectivity 11, 22 element 2010/11-11/12 Isham Bypass and Isham to Wellingborough Improvements Corby to Kettering connectivity Northamptonshire Transformed 8, 9, 10, Construction of Corby link Locally led improvements, including County Council Connectivity 11, 22 Road element 2010/11-11/12 Corby Link Road Transformed Dependent on development at Daventry urban transit Locally led To be confirmed 10, 11, 13 Connectivity Daventry. To be confirmed Travel centres Northamptonshire Transformed 8, 9, 10, Locally led To be confirmed programme County Council Connectivity 11, 12, 13 On-demand travel Northamptonshire Transformed 5, 8, 9, 10, Locally led To be confirmed information County Council Connectivity 11, 12 Northamptonshire Transformed Green links Locally led 9, 14 To be confirmed County Council Connectivity

Leadership on Northamptonshire Arc Locally led To be confirmed climate change 13, 14 To be confirmed Biodiversity Corridor & biodiversity

Northampton Grosvenor Legal & General Stronger and Centre and Greyfriars Locally led / Northampton greener the 20, 21, 23 To be confirmed redevelopment Borough Council local economy

38 | Northamptonshire Arc Background Report Lead Arc Relevant Key milestones and Project/Activity Category Sponsor Thematic Strategic delivery timescale Outcome Priority Stronger and I-Con (Sustainable Northampton 13, 16, 17, Locally led greener the Construction 2009/10–2010/11 Construction), Daventry University 19, 22 local economy Off site manufacturing Stronger and 13, 16, park for construction Locally led To be confirmed greener the To be confirmed 17, 19 modules local economy Silverstone Masterplan including Stronger and High Performance Silverstone 16, 17, Locally led greener the To be confirmed Engineering & Circuits 18, 22 local economy Motorsport centre of Excellence, Silverstone Next Generation Stronger and 13, 16, 17, Broadband & Locally led To be confirmed greener the 18, 19, 20, To be confirmed Utilities pilot local economy 21, 22, 23 Stronger and Technologies Innovation Locally led To be confirmed greener the 16, 17 To be confirmed centre for Logistics local economy Northamptonshire County Stronger and Northamptonshire Fit 16, 17, 20, Programme for 2010/11 Locally led Council with greener the for Market Programme 21, 22, 23 to be confirmed Northamptonshire local economy Enterprise

Northamptonshire Arc Background Report | 39 Comments and further information

A considerable amount of initial stakeholder engagement has already taken place over recent months on the Northamptonshire Arc. However, this is a draft report and comments are invited on the Northamptonshire Arc concept. This includes views on the strategic priorities and activities listed in Appendices 1 and 2. Comments on the Northamptonshire Arc and this report should be sent to [email protected] by Friday 16th July 2010.

Further information

For further information and updates contact [email protected]

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