NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Masterplan and project proposals

Other sites

5.5 In addition to the above, the masterplan indicates potential commercial developments Summary at the Northern Gateway/Campbell Street (Site 13, 10,200m2 at 3 storeys), residential 5.7 This section of the report has set out a proposal led developments at the St Edmunds Hospital for a masterplan and key developments for site and along Bedford Road (site 14 - the the Central Area of Northampton. This is the development shown would provide some result of the identification of the Vision and key 620 two bed and 114 one bed apartments drivers of development and the appraisal of the at 4 storeys) and leisure and residential potential areas of change and investment within developments at various sites along the the Central Area. The key development projects Waterside. There is also the potential for the will deliver the required step change in the development of a healthcare campus at the range of services, accommodation, destinations, General Hospital, subject to the investment and infrastructure and employment in the development proposals of the NHS Trust. town centre.

Summary of outputs 5.8 In the next two sections of the report we set out the complementary strategies for transportation 5.6 The total projected outputs of the projects listed and movement and the public realm. above are summarised in the table below. This relates to new build space only and does not take account of refurbishment or conversion. The amount of floorspace shown exceeds short term requirements but is designed to meet long term growth objectives.

45 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Transportation & movement strategy

Introduction

6.1 This section provides details of the transport a. Completion of the Outer Ring Road around d. Improvements to bus infrastructure in the related masterplan proposals. This section is the north and west of the town though a town centre; structured as follows; combination of developer and government funding. e. Improvements to the streetscape within a. The existing constraints and opportunities; the town. b. Provision of Park and Ride sites at Upton and b. The main aims of the transport masterplan; Riverside with further sites to be identified close to the A508 to the north and south of the town. c. The transport masterplan proposals c. Potential parkway station close to the M1 on the Baseline Assessment West Coast Mainline.

General Overview d. Provision of bus priority measures on all the 6.2 A detailed transport baseline assessment for main radial routes into the town centre. the town centre has been undertaken and is available separately. This section of the report e. Implementation of SCOOT UTC and bus summarises the main points identified in this priority at all signals on the radial routes into detailed assessment. the town.

NCC Transport Strategy 6.4 Within the town centre the strategy includes: 6.3 Consideration of the policy documentation, relevant studies and discussions with the council a. Downgrading of the inner ring road and officers has highlighted the general transport improving the accessibility of the town centre strategy for the Northampton area. The strategy using non-motorised modes; includes the following key elements which are to be implemented over the next 5 to 10 years. b. Relocation or removal of the bus station; Figure 13: Key Growth Areas & Strategy Transport Links (see Figure 13 opposite). c. Provision of additional bus priority and changes to the junction layouts to accommodate proposed park and ride vehicles and other general public transport vehicles. 46 northampton NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Transportation & movement strategy

Travel Patterns in the Town Centre 6.7 The radial routes into the town centre and the Public Transport c. New transport interchange at Castle Station. c. There are limited opportunities to cross the 6.5 An assessment of Census data has identified inner ring road can become congested during 6.10 Public transport currently has a low mode share The rail station is remote from the town centre River Nene to the south of the town centre to the following information on travel patterns for the standard weekday peak periods. This is in comparison to the private car. Perceptions and pedestrian linkages are poor. This station the residential areas of Far Cotton, Camp Hill people living and working in the town centre. mainly due to limitation in capacity at a number amongst the public of public transport are is mainly used for car based park and ride for and Hunsbury Hill and also the proposed river of key locations. The limited space availability poor. A number of ‘flagship’ projects for public London and other major cities, as a result rail side developments from the town centre. a. Nearly 70% of journeys to work are undertaken means that major improvements in capacity of transport within Northampton have the potential has a limited role to play in terms of inward by car. the inner ring road cannot be achieved without to act as a catalyst for a change in perceptions. commuting into Northampton due to the 6.12 There are a number of national cycle routes that significant demolition of property. London-centric orientation of the network pass through the town centre, however, cycle b. Around 8% of journeys to work are undertaken a. New approach to bus service provision - The and the lack of stations within the immediate facilities within the town centre are limited and by Public Transport. 6.8 In addition to the ring road, there are two Greyfriars Bus Station provides a poor quality hinterland of Northampton. Provision of are poorly identified. Cycle parking facilities are further main routes that pass through the core of environment for bus users and is slightly remote enhanced interchange at the Station will be also provided on a limited basis within the town c. Majority of people who live close to the town the town centre; from the majority of the town centre. As a result a crucial component of enhanced overall centre. Cyclists tend to suffer from the same centre and work in the town centre walk the majority of buses also stop on-street within accessibility for the town centre to reduce the severance issues as the pedestrians. to work. a. Horse Market which is a four lane dual the town. Redevelopment of the Bus Station dependency on using the car to access. carriageway carrying traffic between the north site a offers the potential for a major overhaul of Car Parking Town Centre Highway Network and south of the town centre; and the town’s bus network, and an opportunity to Cycle and Pedestrian Networks 6.13 Given current demand levels for public car 6.6 The town centre exhibits a traditional street significantly enhance the service offer to existing 6.11 Within the retail core pedestrian facilities are parking, and equivalent levels of private car pattern with a number of radial routes feeding b. Lady’s Lane/Greyfriars which combine to and potential users. good. However, outside this core area the parking of approximately 6,000 spaces, there into a central core. Around this core is an orbital provide an east-west route across the northern motorised vehicle generally take priority and is not considered to be an issue with regard to route (inner ring road) for traffic circulating within part of the town centre core with in excess of b. Introduction of park and ride services. Given pedestrian facilities/environment is poor. Access present car parking supply. There is however a and around the town centre. There is minimal two lanes in each direction. sufficient priority measures, it is likely that the P to and circulation around the town centre is poor spatial distribution of car parking within the long distance through traffic within the town & R services will encourage a modal shift from made especially poor as a result of barriers to town centre, with a significant proportion of the centre, however, there is traffic passing from one 6.9 The majority of the other roads within the inner the car. pedestrian and cycle movements; available spaces located in the northern part of side of town to the other to access areas within ring road are low capacity routes that provide the town centre or close to the town centre. access to the main town centre commercial a. The inner ring road system creates a collar areas. On-street car parking and servicing for the around the central core, isolating a number of 6.14 There is limited guidance for users to the majority of the frontage retail and commercial the surrounding areas from the town centre. most appropriate car park to use and as such properties are also often accommodated on people tend to travel around the town to get these routes, and traffic speeds are restricted. b. Horse Market forms a significant barrier to a space that is the most convenient for their There is also significant pedestrian/vehicle pedestrian and cycle movements between the final destination. This results additional traffic interaction along these routes which can lead to residential, leisure and rail station uses in the movements and increased journey lengths, difficulties in crossing the roads. west of the town centre and the retail core in which is contributing to the congestion issues. the east of the town centre. 47 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Transportation & movement strategy

6.15 The majority of the car parks are at present d. Facilitate and maximise opportunities for new Pedestrianised pay and display which tends to restrict peoples development. Pedestrian Priority stay within the town and has been shown to be Bus & Access Only an inconvenience to visitors. The only pay on Improving the pedestrian environment 20 mph foot car park where you pay at the end of the Access Roads stay is Mayorhold multi-storey car park which is 6.17 The removal of barriers to pedestrian Distributor Roads generally the best used shopper car park in the movement to/from and within the town town centre. centre is a primary goal to encourage greater permeability from the existing and proposed Aims of the Masterplan Transport residential areas that surround the town Strategy centre and encourage greater movement by pedestrians within the town centre. 6.16 The transport strategy has four main aims: Improvements to the pedestrian environment will further encourage people to visit and stay a. Breakdown pedestrian severance for people longer within the town centre and therefore moving into and around the town centre and enhance the growth potential for the area. improve the pedestrian environment throughout the town centre. 6.18 The proposed pedestrian enhancements that form part of the overall masterplan are shown in b. Improve public transport facilities and circulation Figure 14 opposite. within the town centre together with better integration of bus stops and the rail station with 6.19 The main causes of this severance identified in the heart of town centre and the integration of the baseline assessment are as follows; the park and ride services into the heart of the town centre. a. The Inner Ring Road c. Increase the efficiency of the highway network and the operation of the parking areas and b. Horse Market reduce unnecessary traffic movements within the town centre. This includes the relocation of c. The River Nene Figure 14: Proposed Road Usage town centre parking to the park and ride sites resulting in an overall reduction in the levels of traffic accessing the town centre.

48 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Transportation & movement strategy

6.20 It is proposed to breakdown the barrier to Horse Market d. Through the proposed development on the a. Pedestrian only – in addition to the existing Improved Public Transport Facilities pedestrian movement into the town centre 6.23 As part of the overall masterplan proposals, British Gas site adjacent to Towcester Road. pedestrianised areas new pedestrian only routes and Circulation caused by the Inner Ring Road through the Horse Market is to be downgraded from a are proposed. These generally provide routes provision of raised crossing points on the direct four lane major through traffic route to a single 6.25 Each of these crossing points is linked with between the railway station and the town centre 6.28 Improvements to bus based public transport desire line of every route into the town centre. carriageway road to reflect the relatively low exiting pedestrian routes within the town in the west of the town and routes through the access to the town centre through the provision levels of traffic on this route. The levels of traffic centre and would form part of proposed proposed extension to the Grosvenor centre of bus priority measures along the radial access 6.21 The levels of traffic that will remain on this route that are likely to utilise Horse market following redevelopment sites either within this in the north of the town. Levels of activity roads and the implementation of park and will require signal control of all crossing points, the down grading of the route should allow masterplan area or within the riverside should be high enough to preclude cars, if not ride is a primary part of the councils transport however, it is proposed that pedestrians will pedestrians to cross without a requirement for proposals. In coordination with the pedestrian pedestrian priority routes are to be preferred. strategy for the Northampton area in order to be given the highest level of priority when a traffic signals. As a result a number of raised proposals for the ring road the provision of these encourage greater use of this travel mode and demand is identified at these crossing points. In areas will be provided at strategic points where crossing facilities and their associated routes b. Pedestrian Priority Routes – These routes are reduce the dominance of car based travel to the addition, the signals should be set up to allow pedestrian routes cross the road to allow free will significantly improve the pedestrian linkages generally located in the core of the town centre town centre. pedestrians to cross the entire road in one pedestrian movements between the residential, between the town centre and the regeneration where traffic levels are to be minimised and stage rather than having to wait for two or leisure, employment and rail station areas to the areas to the south. pedestrian levels are to be maximised but access 6.29 The town centre masterplan proposals aim three stages which is generally the case at the west of the route and the retail core to the east. still has to be maintained. Traffic speeds within to extend these bus priority measures and present time. Improvements within the Inner these areas will be reduced to walking speeds passenger provisions in the town centre to River Nene Ring Road when there is a pedestrian presence through maximise the opportunity to utilise public 6.22 In addition to these general improvements it is 6.24 The masterplanning of the Riverside area does the design of the streets. Pedestrians will be transport, especially the proposed park and also proposed to remove the one-way gyratory not form part of this commission, however, 6.26 It is proposed to significantly enhance the encouraged to walk anywhere within the overall ride service. system in the southern part of the town centre indicative locations for additional pedestrian/cycle pedestrian routes that cross the town centre carriageway with the vehicle areas designated by that utilises Bridge Street and St Johns Street. crossing points are identified as part of this between the various entry points located around changes in the surface and small changes in level This scheme has been developed to remove this masterplan as follows. the core area. A maximum speed of 20 mph rather than standard kerbs. major traffic route from the area within the inner is proposed within the inner core of the town ring road and allow carriageway to be allocated a. Adjacent to Nunn Mills Road providing access centre with vehicular movements restricted to c. 20 MPH Routes – All other routes within to access only vehicles and pedestrian priority/ to the power station residential site. access and servicing only. the town centre will be restricted using traffic bus routes. management measures to a 20 mph speed limit. b. A link into the western side of Becketts Park 6.27 Three general carriageway types are proposed linking the Avon site to the town centre. within the town centre as identified below; in addition there may be other restrictions in terms c. Adjacent to the eastern side of Bridge Street of on-street parking and permitted vehicles that linking into the proposed Cattle Market Road may be applied to the routes. development.

49 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Transportation & movement strategy

Bus Station 6.32 Upgrading the existing facilities to a high quality b. The section of Bridge Street between the 6.30 The proposed extension to the Grosvenor passenger area will improve the facilities for inner ring road and Kingswell Street (two way Centre will require the removal of the existing all public transport users and being located in buses) which extends the services approaching poor quality bus station. Alternative locations the core of the retail area will also attract new from the south into the town centre and allow for a smaller, more efficient bus station that will custom. The provision of similar high quality bus priority to be provided at the inner ring provide a focus for passenger facilities and will facilities on the down graded Horse Market will road junction. include tourist information services, waiting provide capacity for the expansion of the bus areas, public conveniences and real time services but will also better bus integration c. A new two-way bus only route in the vicinity passenger information have been investigated by with the residential, leisure and employment of Ladys Lane to be implemented as part of the council. The preferred site was the existing areas in the west of the town and also the the Grosvenor development when the existing indoor market which would have provided an railway station. Greyfriars gyratory is to be removed and eight stand bus station to accommodate park replaces with this two-way single carriageway and ride buses serving the proposed out of Bus Service Routing and Priority Measures bus priority route. town sites and longer distance services with the 6.33 The proposed bus routing strategy and town remainder utilising the on-street stops. centre priority measures are shown in Figure 15 6.35 In addition to the priority measures already opposite. The main bus core within the town identified it is proposed that selective vehicle 6.31 However, under this town centre masterplan it centre is a one-way circulatory route that utilises detection equipment is installed at all the inner is proposed that the focal point for bus services The Drapery, Gold Street, Horse Market and ring road junctions to allow priority to be given in Northampton Town Centre is located in the Greyfriars. Within the proposed routing strategy to buses as they approach the town centre along heart of the town around the existing stops on all buses that terminate within the town centre the radial routes. From South the Drapery with potential expansion areas would travel around this one-way loop. From West

or secondary stops on Horse Market once it Railway Station Integration From North East

has been downgraded. The stop facilities and 6.34 Other bus priority routes that have been 6.36 There are major proposals for the From East streetscape within these areas will be significantly identified include; redevelopment of the railway station site for From North upgraded to provide high quality covered employment and residential uses as well as waiting areas, pedestrian friendly running areas a. The entire length of Marefair (two-way buses) providing a new interchange facility between Figure 15: Bus Routes which will assist crossing of the road, real time which extends the proposed bus priority buses and the new rail station. passenger information systems and a service measures leading to the proposed Upton Park outlets located within the heart of the area to and ride site into the town centre and allow bus will provide tourist/passenger information, ticket priority to be provided at the inner ring road sales area and public conveniences. junction.

50 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Transportation & movement strategy

6.37 Under the town centre masterplan it is 6.39 This strategy however, does not preclude c. Removal of the one-way gyratory system in the f. The proposed strategy is to encourage people (vi) Provision of high quality car parks designed with proposed to link the station to the town centre changes to junction layouts associated with southern part of the town centre that utilises to park in the car park that is closest to the personal security in mind that are easily accessed via the existing route along Marefair and Gold specific redevelopment schemes where they can Bridge Street and St Johns Street to be replaced location of the radial that a person enters the directly from the inner ring road if possible. Street and an alternative utilising a pedestrian be implemented within available land constraints with the widening of Victoria Promenade to town centre and then walk across town to their bridge over St Andrew’s Road, travelling and they will contribute the increased capacity of allow two lanes in each direction. This will also final destination, thus reducing circulating traffic (vii) A consistent payment strategy for the entire along the line of Castle Street, across Horse the overall network. require changes to the Bridge Street and St flows. An example of how this could operate is town centre which will include both short Market and into the town centre. This is a Johns Street traffic signal controlled junctions. shown in the Figure 16 overleaf. For this type and long stay provision in the same car park direct and unimpeded route that also integrates Inner Ring Road Efficiency Improvements of strategy to operate effectively the following but segregated by allocating different floors or well with the proposed bus stops located on 6.40 The proposed schemes/strategies aimed at Revised Off-street Car Parking Strategy facilities will have to be provided and form part areas . It is suggested that the payment method the downgraded Horse Market allowing rail improving the efficiency of the highway network d. Drivers will be encouraged to utilise the park of the masterplan proposals. should be ‘pay on foot’ which tends to be passengers to utilise this travel mode. especially focused on the inner ring road include; and ride sites on the approaches to the town more convenient to the users, requires less centre rather than utilise the parking within the (i) Adequate levels of parking spaces in close enforcement and encourages people to stay Increased Efficiency of the Highway a. Provision of a SCOOT based Urban Traffic town centre. However, in order to attempt to proximity to each of the main radial routes into longer within the town centre Network Control (UTC) system throughout the town reduce the levels of vehicles that are circulating the town centre. centre to allow all the traffic signals to be around the town centre and therefore the trips g. In order to facilitate this type of parking strategy, 6.38 Measures will be promoted that increase the controlled and coordinated by central system within the town centre it is proposed that a new (ii) Car parking focused on large single site parking the masterplan includes the provision of a new efficiency of the existing infrastructure and that can adapt the signal timings to the traffic flow car park management strategy is implemented in areas rather than a lot of smaller sites so that the multi-storey car park located on St Petersway. remove unnecessary trips from the town centre. conditions on a real time basis thus producing a the town centre. efficiency of use can be maximised. It is proposed that this facility would readdress An essential part of the strategy to remove more efficient and effective overall system. This the balance of car parking between the north traffic from the town centre is the proposed type of system would also allow priority to be e. At present people tend to park in a space that (iii) A balanced spread of car parking throughout and south of the town centre and would also network of park and ride sites on the main radial given to buses using selective vehicle detection. is closest to their final destination which results the town which may require the construction of provide some of the parking being lost to routes into the town centre. Drivers will be in drivers circulating around the town centre to additional spaces in some areas and the removal/ redevelopment proposals. encouraged to utilise this through the provision b. Conversion of the two roundabout junctions on either access their desired car park or looking maintenance of spaces in another area. of comprehensive bus priority and the pricing the (Morrison’s and Towcester Road) inner ring for the most convenient space. This adds h. A further multi-storey car park should be strategy for the sites and also the town centre road to signal controlled junctions, this will allow significantly to the trips undertaken within the (iv) A real time car park management system that considered in the east of the town centre should parking facilities which is likely to result in a them to be controlled in a more effective way town centre and therefore the congestion. will inform drivers where the appropriate car an appropriate site be found, however, at the significant reduction in the traffic levels accessing within the overall UTC system but will also allow park is located that has space for them to park. present time opportunities for a potential site the town centre and also the demand for integrated pedestrian facilities as well as bus are limited. parking in the town centre. priority to be implemented at these junctions. (v) Excellent walk links around the town centre between the car parks and the other areas of the town.

51 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Figure 16: Routes to Car Parks Transportation & movement strategy

Primary

Secondary

Existing Car Parks

Proposed Car parks

52 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Transportation & movement strategy

i. The levels of parking capacity in the north of 6.43 The further development of the road systems 6.45 There are a number of sites throughout the the town suggest that the numbers of spaces in within the town centre should prevent trough town centre where opportunities to improve this area should be reduced and therefore it is traffic movements and potential rat runs by the transport network are likely to arise on proposed that the strategy for this area should providing a series of access loops which force the back of a redevelopment scheme which be based around the existing Grosvenor and the driver to exit the town centre in a similar are not available at present and these could Mayorhold multi-storey car parks and existing location to their entry point, eliminating the be developed further during the detailed surface parking and multi-storey areas that are opportunity for cross town movements and masterplanning and viability appraisals of these redeveloped should not be reprovided in this so removing the desire for drivers to enter the sites. In addition, there are a number of sites area of the town. town centre for purposes other than access where expansion of the potential development and servicing. area into redundant highway land may On-street Parking improve the development potential for that 6.41 On-street parking within the town centre should Facilitate and Maximise Opportunities site Therefore, opportunities to redevelop be minimised, with remaining spaces available for New Development highway land where appropriate should also for disabled drivers or short stay visitors (less be considered. than 1 hour). Parking should be provided in 6.44 The implementation of the wider transport appropriate bays with areas provided between proposals such as the completion of the outer bays to allow pedestrians to walk between ring road and the provision of park and ride sites parked cars. The implementation of a stringent and bus priority measures are likely to have a policy towards on-street parking will reduce the positive impact on the operation of the transport instances of people entering the town centre networks in the town centre. However, core and circulating around to find a space and where the development of a site results in an will encourage use of the designated multi- opportunity to improve the transport networks storey parking areas. without affecting the viability or implementation of the development then these potential Reduced traffic flows within the town centre schemes should be progressed. 6.42 The pedestrian, traffic management, junction remodelling and parking schemes that are proposed in the overall transport masterplan are likely to reduce traffic flows within the ring road effectively restricting the town centre routes to access and servicing traffic together with buses and taxis.

53 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Public realm strategy

Introduction Stone Oak Iron Leather (S.O.I.L)

7.1 This section of the report will contain the public 7.4 The streetscape of the town will establish a 7.8 The essential elements of Northampton are realm strategy to support the masterplan. quality foreground for the architecture. By embraced in this unique blend of materials. The This study establishes an overall vision for the simplifying and not over complicating with beautiful honey coloured local stone speaks of integrated public realm strategy of Northampton elaborate paving patterns the character and permanence and local sourcing, the oak of the in terms of image and environment. A Design intelligent detailing of the street surfaces and medieval town and the marketplace, the iron of Framework and Design Vocabulary has been furniture can contribute to enhancing the wealth the rise of the Victorian town and the coming of established which together forms the basis for of architectural features found within the town. the railway and industry and the leather of the the proposed public realm strategy. Providing a high quality of streets, squares and local traditions of craft and fashion. spaces will also develop a stage for vibrant and The Overarching Strategy active, ‘Town-Life’. 7.9 This theme will provide a high quality over- arching ‘design umbrella’ which will cover all Identity 7.5 Celebrating key landmarks and their setting by the various design elements within the study repairing, cleaning and lighting these features area. Such elements as entrance gateways, 7.2 The overall design philosophy, brought forward will help to preserve local identity and enhance sculptures, planting, boundary treatments, by the public realm strategy, aims to create a something that the townspeople can furniture, surface materials, lighting and signing unifying and attractive image for Northampton. identify with. etc will all be integrated within the strategy. The Northampton is a town with a rich legacy of objective being to set a unique design image for townscape and architecture from the past. Its 7.6 The design philosophy also aims to establish the entire study area that based upon proven urban morphology has matured slowly over a greater sense of arrival into Northampton, environmental design principals. time with much of its medieval origins still in tact. making the experience for visitors a There is an architectural richness of Georgian memorable one. and Victorian Architecture and a wealth of landmark buildings providing a depth of cultural 7.7 As part of giving Northampton its own unique heritage for the town. identity, a simple strategy is proposed which will serve as the main catalyst linking all the various 7.3 The public realm should play to this strength by elements within each character treatment. reinforcing this fine quality of townscape, using materials that reflect the local vernacular, tone and colours, and timelessness of the town.

54 northampton NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Public realm strategy

Opportunity - Quality of building fabric

Need - Poverty of public realm 55 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Public realm strategy

The Market Square

The Cross

Street Hierarchy Concept: The Cultural Mile

7.10 Following the theory of consistency and Approaches connection through familiarity, a concept hierarchy through Northampton will form the The Waterways basis for the development of a design palette for various elements within the town’s public realm. Shopping Loops

The public realm strategy for the Town Centre can be considered in seven elements:

a. The Market Square

b. The Cross

c. The Cultural Mile

d. The Waterways

e. The Shopping Loops

f. Approach Corridors

g. Lighting

Figure17: Public Realm Framework 56 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Figure 18a: Market Square Public realm strategy

Market Square

Market Square – will become the new focus and With the ability to accommodate all kinds of new identity for the town centre. The Square will be a and exciting temporary installations and new media central meeting point for all kinds of people, ranging this rediscovered civic space will become a hub of from shoppers, employees, young people, children, activity at all times of the day and night. This will be and residents. The potential use of the square for reinforced by a creative lighting scheme that will play events and performances should be considered as an important role in illuminating the night scene. an integral part of its design. Issues such as potential stage locations, power supplies and lighting should Market Square is on a European scale Market Square offers a large open space be addressed. The current use as a thriving Market should also be maintained in some way, whilst allowing flexibility to integrate with other uses.

This space should be retained fundamentally as a traditional public square. The existing uses that front the space to the north and east can be enhanced to ensure that every business fronting the Square provides retailing and seating areas spilling out into public realm. There will be a strong emphasis on cafes, restaurants and marketing of local produce. Active edge of the square Cafe/Restaurants

To the south west of the square, the impressive backdrop of the All Saints Church, with the traditional bars and restaurants in front lining the edges, provides a strong existing structure to build upon. Enhancing the quality of the existing architecture with high quality paving and surfacing solutions will lift the visual appearance and character of the space. Also, the reinforcement of historical associations through lighting, traditional paving and landmarks will create a new and strengthened link between the Market Lighting to activate at night Square and the Town Centre. 57 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Figure 18b: The Cross Public realm strategy

Church of Holy Sepulchre

Drapery

St Giles Church Market Square Marefair + Gold Street

Northampton Castle, St Peters St Giles Street Church

The Cross

Bridge Street As defined by townscape appraisal the strategy will The public realm should aim to enhance and balance look to reinforce the strong identity of Northampton’s out the detail and intricacies of the architectural historic crossroads. These are the east-west streets facades. By creating a timeless, simple and elegant of Marefair, Gold Street, and St Giles Street, and the paving solution, the floor canvas will begin to draw out north-south streets of Bridge Street and The Drapery. the geometric clues in the buildings and elevate the Delapre Abbey setting for important civic landmarks around the town. Robust street furniture and materials, stone & wood The aim is to create a primary street design approach The public realm will also play an important part in that will tie the two major axes of the town together. drawing the flow of pedestrians into the centre of the This will be achieved by applying a style that relates to town improving connectivity with important peripheral the rich cultural heritage and activity associated with locations such as the River Nene, the surrounding these important primary routes. parks infrastructure, and the Railway Station.

The Cross incorporates many of the town’s historic To respond to the strong symmetry of the cross landmarks, key destinations such as the Railway the street’s linear perspective will be strengthened. Station, the River, the important cultural civic buildings, By straightening pavement lines, positioning trees, and the major shopping and entertainment axes. lighting and other street furniture in formal rows, and Elements associated with these routes include widening footpaths to allow for more generous footfall movement and flow, energy, activity, history and the perception of having two strong visual axes into progress, with the structure of streets at a wider the town will be achieved. scale, acting as the key arteries that draw people into the centre. Wide street with pedestrian priority

Wide streets with pedestrian priority Feature paving and banding 58 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Figure 18c: The Cultural Mile Public realm strategy

The Cultural Mile

The meandering north to south route of the Cultural Mile will reflect the city’s cultural, environmental and artistic elements. In broad terms this route links the University and Racecourse park to the north with the town and the River Nene to the south, taking the route through many of Northampton’s cultural assets. A design philosophy that brings out the vibrancy and creative flair of the Arts, will help to energise the route Temporary art installations of the Cultural Mile, and increase public access and awareness of the town’s cultural assets and parks.

The design approach for the Cultural Mile is to overlay a dynamic art strategy over the traditional public realm approach. This overlay would be drawn out in the lighting, the use of public art at key interchanges or as a continuous subtle theme throughout the route, making stronger gestures at key intervals. Temporary installations for visiting artists may also help to keep ideas and new pieces fresh and exciting. Cultural Mile Light trails

Sculptural works Works integrated into the paving

59 /035)".150/
$&/53"-
"3&"

%&4*(/
%&7&-01.&/5
"/%
.07&.&/5
'3".&803,

'JHVSF
E
5IF
8BUFSXBZT

5IF
3JWFS
/FOF 1VCMJD
SFBMN
TUSBUFHZ

5IF
8BUFSXBZT .JMMFST
.FBEPX 5IF
3JWFS
/FOF
DPSSJEPS
QSPWJEFT
B
HSFFO
MJOL
CFUXFFO
UIF
FYQBOEJOH
DPNNVOJUJFT
UIF
DPVOUSZTJEF
BOE
UIF
UPXO
DFOUSF
5IJT
HSFFO
DPSSJEPS
XJMM
QSPWJEF
SFDSFBUJPOBM
WJTVBM
BNFOJUZ
BOE
QSPWJTJPO
PG
TVTUBJOBCMF
USBOTQPSU
SPVUFT
TVDI
BT
GPPUQBUIT
7JDUPSJB
1BSL BOE
DZDMFXBZT
JOUP
UIF
UPXO
DFOUSF
GSPN
UIF
XFTU
BOE
TPVUI

*NBHJOBUJWF
JOUFHSBUJPO
PG
UIF
3JWFS
/FOF
XJUI
JUT
TVSSPVOEJOH
DPOUFYU
XPVME
GVSUIFS
SFJOGPSDF
UIF
QSFTFODF
PG
UIF
SJWFS
*NQSPWJOH
BDDFTT
BOE
FOUSBODFT
POUP
UIF
SJWFSTJEF
XBMLT
GSPN
CPUI
BEKBDFOU
8BUFSTJEF
XBMLXBZT
DBOBM
NPPSJOHT
EJQQJOH
QPOET DPNNVOJUJFT
BOE
EJSFDUMZ
GSPN
UIF
UPXO
DFOUSF
XJMM
IFMQ
UP
SFMBUF
UIF
SJWFS
CBDL
UP
UIF
UPXO
NVDI
NPSF
TUSPOHMZ 'PPU
.FBEPXT 3JWFSTJEF
XBMLT
XJMM
QSPWJEF
B
USBORVJM
TFUUJOH
PWFSMPPLJOH
UIF
SJWFS
XJUI
PQQPSUVOJUJFT
GPS
SJWFS
WJFXT
XBMLT
BOE
QMBDFT
GPS
QFPQMF
UP
FBU
SFTU
PS
DPOUFNQMBUF

(SFFO
DPOOFDUJOH
QBUIT
SFDSFBUJPO
MPPQT

$PNNVOJUZ
FWFOUT
DPNQFUJUJPOT $IJMESFOT
QMBZ
BSFBT
NVMUJ
VTF
HBNFT
BSFBT
mFMET  NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Figure 18e: Shopping Loops - Abington Street Public realm strategy

The Shopping Loops

To the east of centre are the key shopping streets Introduction of street trees as well as temporary of Abington Street, Fish Street, St Giles. The aim of landscape solutions will help to add colour the public realm will be to accentuate key buildings, and animation to the street, break down the reinforce cross links between St Giles Street and overwhelming sense of scale amongst some of the Abington Street particularly along Fish Street, and larger streets such as Abington Street, and improve reinforce links to the internal shopping arcades. the overall attractiveness of the street character. Hanging baskets, troughs and free standing planters Creating a strong interface between the internal malls when approached with style and elegance are an of the Grosvenor Centre and the external streets will indispensable asset to the character of the town. help to unite the shopping experience and help to These elements are particularly useful in narrow well take the centre of gravity to the Market Square. enclosed environments or in areas where the ground does not allow for planting, for example along the Abington Street is extremely wide and therefore narrow streets of St Giles Street or Fish Street. there is an opportunity to break this down by creating different movement zones for commercial or more Together a ‘greening strategy’ can introduce an passive activities. This will provide zones for window element of interest and detail that is often overlooked Active edge of the square Cafe/Restaurants shopping, slowing the pace down with outdoor cafes, on a plan and can invigorate and act as a foil to an or introducing performance spaces to invigorate the otherwise hardscaped environment. life of the street.

Inegrated artwork along the street Lighting to activate the street during the evening 61 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Figure 18e: Shopping Loops - Angel Street & St Johns Public realm strategy

Angel Street and St Johns Area

The aim is to provide a ‘haven’ for creative industries, generating an area for local artists, craftspeople and entrepreneurs by extensively refurbishing and creating new development in the form of apartments, galleries and workspaces for artists and arts organisations.

The area could incorporate a public art programme that develops an innovative approach of inviting artists in many fields to visit the area and respond to its faded glories. This approach would not just be a single piece of sculpture outside a new building. Instead it would integrate into the area, penetrating into the most unusual and unexpected places, appearing in the form of street signs, walls, on the tops of car parks, or into the paving, making everyday objects like street signs into art works. As a result, the art in the area will be a talking point, attracting visitors and, most importantly, becoming a joy to discover and see.

The area’s locations, could mean that it integrates closely with activity and events happening along the Cultural Mile, helping to draw people from the busy streets into this more secluded area.

62 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Figure 18f: Approaches Public realm strategy

Horse market corridors St. Peters Way Approach Corridors

Horse Market Bridge Street Promenade

This will remain a vehicular route but will become A major public realm scheme is proposed on Bridge The use of specimen street trees as part of the the subject of a comprehensive package of Street to greatly improve the links to the River Nene project will also enhance the appearance of the route, environmental enhancements comprising boulevard from the centre. softening it and ensuring a level of quality and maturity, landscaping, enhanced signage, lighting and public art as well as reinforcing strong visual axis. Detailing, in line with the reduction of carriageways and new Under the transportation strategy, Bridge Street materials and lighting should be designed to encourage pedestrian emphasis. would be closed to all traffic, except for buses and high levels of activity and maintain a level of quality. limited servicing. Bridge Street The concept will be to draw out the character of the tree lined boulevard along Victoria Promenade and A surface treatment that gives clear priority to take the ‘green theme’ through in the form of tree pedestrians will be implemented along this route, lined boulevards, low hedges and grass. providing for a safe and pleasant stroll to the riverside. The scheme will be strengthened by new At the junction of Gold Street and Marefair the key development and the redevelopment of properties pedestrian route from the station into the town centre lining this route, and by the introduction of new uses Horsemarket Corridor should be reinforced, helping to create a seamless so that they begin to encourage people down to the Reduce to a single carriageway crossing points across the carriageway. This will waters edge. each way with a strong pedestrian emphasis naturally form a gateway threshold into the Typical section of tree lined streets with reduced traffic town centre. It is envisaged that activity will spill out onto much of lanes this new leisure route as it directs people towards St Peter’s Way the river and the new leisure developments lining the river’s edge. The provision of mooring facilities along St Peters Way The character of this enhanced route will be drawn the bank of the Nene and design features that increase East-west vehicular out from the existing nature of Victoria Promenade, the sense of connection with the river will help to corridor. by extending the leafy boulevard feel through to the generate a strong destination point and visual gateway railway station along St Peter’s Way. south of the town. Bridge Street Pedestrian dominated Buses allowed No cars Typical plan tree lined streets with reduced traffic lanes

63 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Public realm strategy

Lighting

Proposals for increased town centre living and a While some ‘landmark’ buildings are illuminated this greater integration between leisure and work time tends to be limited. Increased ‘landmark’ lighting have generated a need to address safety, security, especially for buildings such as the Guild Hall, All orientation and visual appearance though the evening. Saints Church and major public and civic buildings will Improving the night time environment by highlighting greatly improve the impact on the townscape the architectural quality and character of the town of Northampton. centre will add drama and provide an added attraction to the town centre for both visitors and residents. Evening circuits, particularly late night shopping, bars Aside from a few examples to the contrary the bistros and restaurant activity need to be imaginatively town centre appears to be poorly lit. Whilst this view lit to ensure safety but also to create an ambience is based on limited night time surveys and a more that creates the character for people to enjoy their comprehensive survey is undoubtedly required, poor environments in times of darkness. Shops frontages, lighting does detract significantly from the sense of use of floorlights and feature lighting, including the the security, actively and vitality. A lighting strategy lighting of monuments, signage and interpretation can should therefore be developed to complement key all help to animate the town at night. development and public realm improvements.

Lighting design will need to consider the functionality and design aspirations for individual character areas. For example the use of formal rows of street lights in areas associated with ‘The Cross’ to reinforce and fortify the linear perspective, or responding to the intimate locations of Angel Street and Johns Street using lighting the reflects the artistic nature of the area, or introducing more contemporary or temporary lighting solutions that respond to the exciting freeform nature of the Cultural Mile.

64 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Delivery strategy

Introduction Key Stakeholders

8.1 Delivering the Development Framework d. Concentrating of efforts on the Priority Projects 8.4 The proposals identified in the Development (ii) Local Planning: The Borough Council is a long-term process. Even for individual in order to realise them on the ground within Framework provide significant opportunities will determine the statutory land use and sites in potentially attractive areas, the the indicated timeframe, and profit from other to achieve the regeneration objectives for infrastructure planning policies for Northampton development process can take a number of changes/ investments taking place in the Northampton Town Centre. However, given town centre, through the preparation of the years from inception to completion. The wider region; the scale of the Development Framework Central Area Action Plan. The Framework will successful implementation and delivery of the objectives, it is likely to take several years to be a key influence on the Area Action Plan and Development Framework objectives requires e. The agreement of the Delivery Vehicle to act as realise the potential of all the sites within the its proposals will be tested through the statutory a change in the role and perception of the area a focus for accessing public funding and with Town Centre. To achieve full benefits, the plan process. itself. It is necessary to move towards sustained the authority to deliver the framework in the landowners, investors, developers and the public investment confidence and stimulation of the longer term. sector will need to work closely together to (iii) Funding: Both councils are major landowners market, which will require: ensure that development across the town centre and the use of these holdings will be critical to 8.2 The delivery framework will need to be is delivered in a cohesive, comprehensive and the success of the regeneration plans. Local a. Active commitment to the implementation of as flexible as possible to ensure that the above all integrated manner. authorities are able to dispose of land at less the Development Framework; Development Framework and the actual than best value up to a value of £2 million for delivery vehicle can accommodate changes in 8.5 The roles of these parties are expected to be regeneration purposes (General Disposal Order b. Marketing and economic strategies to promote phasing and the mix of land uses and yet remain as follows: 2003). There are also a variety of mechanisms Northampton Town Centre to potential robust as market considerations and market whereby local authorities can invest their investors, developers and occupiers – perhaps in demand for space fluctuates. a. Borough and County Councils landholdings in order to achieve regeneration the format of a ‘prospectus for change’; objectives (e.g. overage payments, joint venture 8.3 This paper is therefore structured as follows: (i) Facilitating: The Councils, along with WNDC, schemes etc). c. That key stakeholders (landowners, the public are key ‘sponsors’ of the Development sector, investors and developers) work together a. The roles of the key stakeholders Framework and therefore will be responsible for (iv) Local Transport Plan: an integrated package so that the potential costs associated with presenting individual development/investment of proposals will need to be included in the infrastructure improvements and enabling works b. Delivery of the key projects identified in the opportunities to the private sector and to the LTP in order to gain appropriate funding for can be associated with development and benefit Development Framework general public. improvements in provision for pedestrians, a number of the land ownerships within the cyclists, public transport and local access. Town Centre;

northampton 65 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Delivery Strategy

b. WNDC c. English Partnerships d. Town Centre Partnership f. Developers

(i) Development Control: WNDC has (iv) Compulsory Purchase Orders/Road (i) Facilitator: EP is already heavily involved in the (i) Marketing: The Town Centre Partnership (TCP) (i) Transfer of Risk/Partnership: The WNDC development control powers for strategic Closure Orders: In order to ensure that regeneration of Northampton via the Brownfield will be responsible for the active marketing of and the Councils will seek to transfer an planning applications for the Central Area, and appropriate sites are brought forward at the initiative and extensive development in the South the town centre to the public and private sector appropriate level of development risk to therefore along with the Councils, will have correct time, maximising the benefits to the West District Urban Extension and therefore is a investors alike. In particular, the TCP will need individual developers who will be responsible for planning powers to dictate the future quality overall implementation of the Development key stakeholder in the town. Although EP does to market the centre to new retailers, and to the implementing the proposals across the individual of the built environment within the centre. Framework, it may be necessary for the WNDC not have any funding identified for Northampton public by holding events/exhibitions in the Town sites and development blocks included within WNDC have the ability to extract a proportion (or the Councils if necessary) to exercise its town centre at this stage, EP will be able to add Centre, thus increasing Northampton’s profile. the Development Framework. In return the of the land value created by the development powers of Compulsory Purchase. This will be value by applying their experience, expertise It may also take responsibility for marketing non- developer will require an appropriate level of which could then be used to deliver necessary to provide certainty in the delivery and skills in town centre regeneration and retail development opportunities or support and financial return. infrastructure projects. process. RCOs will also be required in order site remediation. EP’s involvement may be co-operate with the Delivery Vehicle for to implement the proposals, in particular the necessary in brokering of agreements between this purpose. (ii) Innovative Funding: Developers will be keen to (ii) Development Framework ‘Champions’: proposed transport infrastructure. various partners through its co-ordination/ring- capitalise on opportunities for innovative funding WNDC with its ability to influence the master role. (ii) Consultations: The Town Centre Manager structures, to ensure that sites can be brought Government as one of only three Urban (v) Partnerships: Along with the Councils, WNDC will be responsible for consulting with the forward for comprehensive development at the Development Corporations in the UK, will be a will need to consider partnership with the (ii) Funding: At this stage, EP does not have any commercial sector (e.g. retailers) and the general earliest opportunity, or when they are most able key body in promoting the future development various stakeholders as a means of securing funds allocated for the town centre, however, if public in order to ascertain the needs and to contribute to the successful implementation of of not only West Northamptonshire, but also infrastructure, community, environmental and particularly difficult projects are brought forward requirements of these and other groups. the Development Framework proposals. Northampton town centre. WNDC’s influence social benefits as part of any new development. in the future, then EP may be able to consider will be essential when the town tries to attract This could be either through S106 obligations, some gap funding in order to assist in the e. Landowners g. Community Groups employers to the town, for example, Central a ‘roof-tax’ system or more comprehensive delivery of these projects.. Government relocations as part of the partnership arrangements. (i) Partnership: There are some landowners with (i) Support and stewardship: Community Lyon’s review. significant interests in the Town Centre. These groups have a major role to play in taking the include L&G, Royal Mail and British Gas (Second Development Framework forward and more (iii) Funding and Resources: WNDC has recently Site). These parties have a positive role to importantly will need to contribute to the more awarded a £25m Block Capital grant for 2006- play, by working in partnership with WNDC detailed Development Briefs and SPD’s for the 08, to support the Growth Delivery Plan, which and the Councils, who themselves are major Priority Areas. is to be developed during 2006. It is likely that landowners in the Town Centre. Potentially, this mainstream funding will in part be used the landowners will also have the opportunity to fund non-value generating projects such as to participate in enhanced land values/rents/ healthcare, schools and roads. investment activity, as a result of implementing the objectives of the Development Framework. 66 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Delivery Strategy

Delivery of the key projects

8.6 An appraisal of the deliverability of the key projects is set out below. This provides a commentary on relevant delivery issues such as land ownership, next steps and, for flagship projects, investment value. Please note that the investment values are based on ‘broad- brush’ appraisals which include a number of assumptions that require detailed testing as part of detailed viability studies for each individual site. Please note that we have not tested the viability (profitably) of each scheme as there is insufficient information on scheme and site detail to enable this analysis to be undertaken in a meaningful manner, and therefore as mentioned above, this will need to be undertaken as part of a more detailed viability study.

67 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Delivery Strategy

68 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Delivery Strategy

69 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Delivery Strategy

Priority Areas

8.7 These are the areas to be developed between 1 and 5 years. The successful development of these key areas will change the image and perception of Northampton Town Centre and boost development confidence. This is likely to trigger the development of the other areas.

a. Priority Area 1: The Grosvenor Centre Extension

b. Priority Area 2: St Peter’s Square

c. Priority Area 3: Castle Station

d. Priority Area 4: County Council Buildings and Blueberry / St John’s

e. Priority Area 5: Infrastructure and public realm works, particularly the Market Square.

70 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Delivery Strategy

8.8 Delivery of the public realm/infrastructure projects will in part be funded by developer Main Ownership (known) F/H: Northampton BC, Northampton CC contributions via traditional routes, such as Comments The implementation of highway and public transport enhancements, to S106/S278 agreements or they may form part improve the accessibility, amenity and value of the town centre. There of a developer’s scheme (i.e. a developer cost). will be an initial focus on achieving pedestrian priority in the town centre We understand that a study is currently being and on remodelling schemes for Horse Market,Bridge Street and Gold undertaken to explore other potential funding Street /Marefair. To maximise the regeneration impact of the routes, for example, a ‘Roof Tax’ scheme may Development Framework, there is a need to be design and implement be appropriate on the basis that a significant some works in advance of town centre developments being realised, amount of residential is being proposed across therefore it will be necessary to find a mechanism for funding these the Borough. Due to the fact that the Town works and recovering the cost from developers, on the basis of the positive impact of the works on the town centre and the value of their Centre benefits not only town centre residents schemes. but also the wider community, any funding accrued as a result of a ‘Roof Tax’ type system Next Steps 1. Prepare infrastructure proposals and detailed designs and identify and prioritise schemes will need to include a separate allocation towards public realm/infrastructure works to be 2. Set up an infrastructure fund based on developer contributions with undertaken within the Town Centre. advance funding from LTP, WNDC and others or from the proposed Roof Tax.

8.9 It may also be necessary in relation to a number Timescale Short to long term

of the schemes for WNDC or the LTP to Investment Value for n/a provide advance funding in order to ‘kick start’ Flagship Projects these schemes, for example the proposals for Bridge Street will require the infrastructure works to be undertaken first in order to attract developer interest. In these circumstances, there maybe opportunities to reclaim some of this upfront investment from the developers.

71 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Delivery Strategy

Summary

8.10 There are a variety of proposals that need to be taken forward. As a first step this should involve the preparation of an Area Action Plan for the town centre that will provide the policy basis for the delivery of the Development Framework. There is also need for a 5 year outline Business Plan, in order to clarify the Partner’s aims for the first 5 years and how the other parties will each play their part within the proposed Delivery Vehicle. In the table below we summarise some of the tasks that may need to be undertaken as part of the first year Business Plan.

72 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Appendix a: Sustainability Appraisal Objectives

Introduction

A1.1 This Appendix sets out the objectives of the Design, Development and Movement Framework in the context of the Sustainability Appraisal Framework prepared by NBC for the purposes of the LDF. The SA Framework provides the means by which the sustainability effects of the Central Area Action Plan will be described, analysed and compared. As the Framework will inform the preparation of the Central AAP, it is prudent to flag up the key objectives in this report.

A1.2 The SA topics and objectives are listed in the table overleaf, with a commentary on the nature of issues and impacts raised by the Design, Development and Movement Framework.

Summary

A1.3 The SA Framework is included in this report to ensure that sustainability issues are recognised at the earliest stage of work leading to the preparation of the Central Area Action Plan. The Design, Development and Movement Framework is not a statutory plan document so a formal SA is not required. However it is helpful to flag the likely objectives and issues as this will help inform the formal preparation of the Central AAP in due course.

northampton 73 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

74 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

Appendix b: List of supporting documents

1 Client brief

2 Town centre health check

3 Business survey

4 Market review

5 Transportation baseline study

6 Benchmarking assessment

7 Delivery strategy

These documents are available for inspection on request at the offices of Northampton Borough Council

northampton 75 NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL AREA , DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT FRAMEWORK

“... the leading burghers of Northampton, the Midlands market town originally built around the footwear trade but now encompassing a growing amount of proto-industrial commerce, had begun to sense that their Need city’s wealth and significance demanded some kind of monumental edifice to reflect its burgeoning status..” Northampton Central Area The public realm lacks cohesion and does not serve to integrate the town centre and Design, development and surrounding areas. The potential of the town centre is not being realised. movement framework Contact

The aim of the Northampton Public alit autpatem do odio consenim endrercil utem nos ero odit dolor sit la aut amet ad dolore magna feugait Realm Framework is to develop a dunt pratinibh et la conum ilit eliquat, sustie magnibh nit iure consequ ametue magnisl eum dolore magna Obore dolortie min utpatue min ex el eugueros nibh quality network of streets, alleys, ex eugait ipisi ea feuipit nosto estin etue delessismod acillan eugue molorer aestrud et lam ipissequatue essisl iure deleniamet, quat. Duis nim ipsum vullandion squares and public spaces which will ming er in el in vero odio er alit augiam iure exer suscil commoloreet, sit verciliquat.Francis Del Glaredolobore consequi utet venibh euissit lore dignit wis nullum do dolore accommodate a rich variety of activity: digna atuero eum dolum auguercilit wis augait, con et, eu faccum [email protected] eliquissit ipsum alit vendree ea cor sequi blandiam, quat. Ut aut vent ver alit ut in short to develop a ‘canvas’ of se modipsustie feu feummy nit wissi er si. tumsan eum aci eugiamet at. nosto dunt irit, quissisl iuscidui exer sequis dolore interest that will offset the buildings of Volobore eriusto esed erBuilding iriliquate Design magna at,Partnership dolore modo eumsan velis accum do endre dolobor Northampton. Na feugue magnibh endrer ipisi eugue facing enibh consequis aliquis cillandiam,Sunlight velessectem House, vullaortis PO Box 85, tionsecte vendre modipisl et augiam et erosto dolor exer sissecte ver at wismod magna consed tio dip dolore con ut vel iustionQuay sectem Street, nos nim Manchester vel ullamco M60 ad3JA estie mod dolore do odolor alis el dionulla faci tet On vercilit nis euisim vel ullam num diamet wis alit nisl eleniam consequis nim do dolore duisi. nulluptat lamcorem quatTel ate +44feum quat.(0)161 Ecte 834 vent 8441 nis lutatie feuis adipis dolortis dunt etue velisit, quisim dolor am velenibh endreet lum in utatie ercilit acil euis Vendit la aliquismod eu facip et am quisl in ea faccum am velese min utatue temFax doloreetum +44 (0)161 vent 832 lobor 4280 volore eum vel delisl ip et vulla consequis et pratuer ex er sed magnibh ex eros nulput volore volor accum nonse conum veros nibh endrero do do et in hent sim quat. Modignibh ex el inibh exeraesed magniscilis sumsandre consequat, commodipisl il ut ute magna dolore ming ea faccum iriuscilis nullan hent am, quam velisl eugait lut autpat. Osto doloreros nostrud el ut nummolo boreet accum dolobore duissed del ut la cortincinci tatio el el ex er incil in heniam, quate et, vent iliquis ea faccum vel exerit praesent laore core vel ute ming erciduis aliquam, qui blaorem iriureet con henit, consendit am dolor sed magna faccum consectem augait augait praeseq uismoluptat. del elent wisi. dolestrud tionsequi bla con ut utpat. Uptat init wisl ut quatue dit augait, secte tat adigna facilla consendre Sandips umsandiamcon et veleniat. Ex euis nullum venim nim iurem vero od te dolestrud mincilis non ut digna feum incipsusci blametueros ad ex eniam volor Bortio ex elenim nos aut ullam, vel del in ut dolor zzrit praesequat. laor at laor sustrud eum nullan velit adiam vel do eu iure faccumsandre consed mincidunt laore mincil ating et iuscil utat lut nos non ea autatue tionsequam Na core conummolore dipit wissi. facipisl inim vullametum del dolorer sequisl iril utpat dolesed tinim dip estrud min henit ea consecte modip euis augiame tueros autem in veliqui tetum aliquisi aliquam nibh exerit at wis non eugait loreet, consed etue dunt nim iriure vent adipsum dio delis non ute euisissis nulpute molor adit nonsectem zzrilit lan etue Gait lut lum num veraessis nim nisim volor ipit tie dit nos euis acip erostrud doluptat. Henibh eugiati minim vel eril ut nit praesse exeros amet autpat. consed minibh esequiscing erit alit eniscil iriliquat amet wiscidunt il dipisis adit vendip euipisim acilla faccum onsent alit laorem nos num duis aliquat. Ut wis alissis Duisim euguero duisseq uipisit alisl el eniamcommy velessequisl essi. zzrillan euisis aliquat nonsequipit lut amet ad tie do consequ amcommy nulla faccum eugait nit wis ad nulputat, qui et venim vulla feum num dunt ad tat. Ut Percipisim dignis alit dio commoluptat adit, cortie ex doloboreetum ad dit ad esequi eugiat iriustrud magna tio odolore essisci duipis adigna conulla conum nulla praeseq uatummy nullum nos doloboreet nismodo eugiat auguerosto eugiam dignis ad ming el iustrud tat facin hent la at, verationse delenis adit vero dolutpate corperit praesto enismod tat lor se volum dolenis lutet, quat lutat adip ex exer iusto odolobore magniam iusci te magna corem ing ex ex ea consed dolobore dolese tat, venissim quam dolore et, vel ulla feu faci diamcorper acil ullummod doloreet verciduis ea consenibh ex enis ex erostin veliqui bla faci esto tatinim atem dolenisl iniam il euisi eu faciliq uissectetue etumsan dipit, quat. amet nos diam augait la faccumm odolorp erostrud delisim dolore dolobore digna conumsan henibh er volenis molore vercips uscilis nit praestrud tat aut iustio dolute faccum iriusciduip ea coreet illa aut augait nulla aliquat adipis aliqui tatie dunt wis doloreetum adionse odionullam, consenis autpat dolorem veros amet, Im zzriureet vulla feu faciliquis niamet alit augait autpat. faccumsan volorer ciduisi. quisit, con hent praesent prat. quatuer ostrud dolorper il ut illa feu faccummy nosto Tat. odolorper sum num am, conum iuscidu ipsuscil del Isit wis num nonulput nostrud dolore dolorem ex et, Irit ea conulla mconulla feu feugue del eugueros nulla Tuercilit num at veraestisit adion utat nummodip ulput adignibh eugait alit, quis do dolore ver acidunt vulput lan henim zzrillum acidui tio exero ea feum augiam zzrillam, quis aliquat. Ut alit ullutpat nibh ea eliqui bla faci tat. Duiscipit nit, quis dolobortion eros num er sum iliquat, susciliquat iurero eros nis dolutat nim quatuercil ero el inciliscil euguera estrud dunt feu faciduisse ea accum nonsectetum zzrit wis am numsandiam dipit lore diamet, cor alis nibh etue del aliquisisis doluptat ut eu faciliscilis dignit nisse tio elit niate dunt dionsequi blamconse magna feuis augiat vercilla feugiam ad te magniamcon ullaorp eriustrud ute te el ute dolum diat lan ut lutpat ulputpatum quat. aliquis dipis nisl ullan henibh erit vullam, veliquipit velisi. northampton northampton