Town could become a 'city of culture'
A new study looking at the future of Northampton says the town could become a "city of culture in the making" over the next 10 to 15 years.
The report, which was put together by a group of creative consultants on behalf of the West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (WNDC), the area's councils and a number of other groups, suggests a national fashion museum could be built in the centre of Northampton as well as an art-house cinema.
The director of regeneration and development for the WNDC, Chris Garden, said the document had already influenced a number of projects in the town.
He added: "Northampton already has some excellent arts, culture and historical attractions, ranging from the Royal and Derngate to the Fishmarket.
"The regeneration of the town centre is a chance to build on these assets, creating a town centre that blends heritage with cutting edge culture.
"It proposes several investment opportunities, a number of which are longer term and aspirational, however, the plan has already helped guide some activities including the new Market Square lighting programme."
The report said as part of its development, Northampton must become a place where the "past and the present hold hands" and "nostalgia and regret is not an option".
It also suggested an "irresistible energy" should be created where culture is given a "starring role in the rebirth of the town".
Among ways the report suggests the town could be improved is the creation of a "design and fashion leather hub" close to the Derngate theatre, which would act as a national fashion museum.
It also suggests Northamptonshire County Council's headquarters at County Hall, which the authority has already suggested it wants to leave, could be converted into a leisure and hospitality complex while an arts cinema could be opened either at the Royal and Derngate Theatre or somewhere else in the town.
The plan was funded by the Arts Council East Midlands.
For more details of the proposals visit the project's website at www. northantsculture.com.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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