New heritage park planned at site of Northampton Castle

ÂŁ1.6 million of government money is to be spent on the development.

Author: Andrea FoxPublished 16th May 2024

Northampton’s to get a new heritage park at the site of the ancient Northampton Castle.

Planning permission has been granted to transform Chalk Lane Car Park in Marefair, Northampton into a new park celebrating the heritage of the former castle and local area; and which will offer open green space for families and the local community to enjoy.

Marefair and the surrounding area was once the famous Northampton Castle, with archaeological excavation sites, historic local buildings such as the Old Black Lion Pub, Hazelrigg House, Castile Hill URC, St Peters Church and a former Saxon Palace.

£1.6 million from the Government’s Towns Fund will be spent by West Northamptonshire Council towards the creation of this Heritage Park in Marefair.

Plans are for new green space, trees, play areas, heritage timeline poles, community gardens, pathways and lighting.

Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Town Centre Regeneration and Growth says:

“Marefair provides the entrance into our town from the train station and we’re thrilled that planning permission has been granted. This is an important milestone in bringing forward a welcoming space for visitors and residents alike, this exciting project will provide really important open green space for the communities of Spring Boroughs to enjoy and understand more about the history of the town.”

Following planning permission being granted, construction works is set to begin this summer.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Greatest Hits Radio app.