Phase two of Northampton country park will soon open after 'major renovation programme'

Phase two of Upton Country Park will be officially opened on Saturday, March 21 by Northampton Borough Council leader, Jonathon Nunn.

Stretching from Upton Mill Farm, in the east, to the village of Kislingbury, the 127 hectare project included the construction of 2.4km of new paths and cycle ways, with new woodland and wetland, served by a viewing platform.

The area is divided by the River Nene, which runs west to east, and the Western Bypass running north to south and the introduction of new footbridges and boardwalks has opened up new pedestrian routes within the park.

Councillor Jonathan Nunn, leader of Northampton Borough Council, said: “Following a major renovation programme, we are incredibly excited to announce the opening date for Upton Country Park, which provides some much-needed additional public open space on the western side of Northampton.

“This much anticipated development, opens up a huge area west of the existing Upton Country Park, offering families a chance to get out into the wilder landscape and enjoy some of the wonderful wildlife making a home there."

The first phase was completed in 2008 with the construction of the Elgar Centre and delivery of football pitches and a cricket square, woodland, footbridges, paths and benches.

On March 21, between 10am and 1pm, families will be entertained at the park with activities including cycle sprints, smoothie bikes, face painting, children’s quiz trail, colouring competition and bug hunt with prizes.

The land forming the country park extension was transferred to Northampton Borough Council by Homes England in 2016.