ECF outlines next steps on updated Greyfriars plan
Plans to build up to 1,200 homes alongside commercial and leisure space in Northampton will be submitted in the autumn, while work could start on the landmark Greyfriars scheme as early as next year.
Developer ECF, a partnership venture between Muse, Legal & General and Homes England, launched a consultation on revised proposals today which set out the next steps for the project – with more affordable homes and less student accommodation potentially set to form part of a tweaked scheme.
The changes to earlier regeneration proposals, set to follow the demolition of an existing 1960’s multi-storey car park at the 14.5-acre site, have been made in response to an initial round of consultations launched in November last year.
A hybrid planning application is scheduled to be lodged this autumn, with a 100-home first phase on the Upper Mounts and Newlands car park sites set to be prioritised, with plans for later phases included as outline proposals.
The later phases of the scheme, set to be delivered over the next ten years, include “high density” residential schemes with ECF says will provided added footfall to proposed retail and cultural destinations on the site.
The updated plans also include gardens and public spaces at West Island and the grade-two listed Corn Exchange building.
Glyn Mutton, development director at ECF, said: “Greyfriars is the most important regeneration opportunity in Northampton. Our focus is on delivering a vision which creates new homes, brings activity back into the town centre, and reflects the priorities of the local community.
“Working in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council, we are making strong progress towards making this a reality and look forward to engaging with residents and showcasing our progress.”
A series of in-person events are set to be held in the Grosvenor Centre as part of the feedback gathering exercise.
Cllr James Petter, cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, added: “The scale of what’s possible here is extraordinary, from new homes and jobs to major cultural, leisure and public spaces that will transform how people live, work, and spend time in our town centre.
“This is a pivotal moment, and we want our communities to be at the centre of it. I strongly encourage residents, businesses and local groups to come along to our events, speak to the team, and complete the survey. Your views will help shape a future Greyfriars that genuinely reflects the ambitions and priorities of Northampton.”
The online consultation for Greyfriars closes on on Sunday 24 May.
