Major plans to breathe new life into Northamptonshire town centre as council reveals regeneration vision
A major regeneration strategy aimed at attracting more visitors, supporting independent businesses and revitalising Daventry town centre is set to be considered by West Northamptonshire Council.
The authority has drawn up a long-term masterplan identifying opportunities to improve shopping areas, introduce new leisure attractions and make the town more appealing to families.
Among the proposals are improvements to Market Place, High Street, Sheaf Street and Mulberry Square, alongside better connections to Daventry Country Park.
The plans follow consultation with residents, businesses and community groups, which highlighted strong support for investment in the town centre.
According to a council report, 80% of respondents identified strengthening the retail offer as a priority, while 78% wanted more greenery and planting.
One of the biggest proposed developments is a new destination play area at New Street Recreation Ground, which the council hopes could become a major attraction for families.
Elsewhere, Mulberry Square, beside the Arc Cinema, could become a venue for events and cultural activities, while Market Place could be redesigned to accommodate more community events without reducing parking capacity.
Improvements to High Street and Sheaf Street would include additional planting, seating, lighting and better pedestrian facilities.
The masterplan also proposes strengthening Daventry's evening economy through additional leisure, food and drink opportunities.
Other opportunities identified include improvements to Foundry Place and Lodge Road, with better pedestrian and cycling routes intended to link shopping destinations, residential neighbourhoods and the wider town centre.
Following consultation, earlier housing-led proposals at Eastern Way and Ashby Road have been revised, with greater emphasis on green infrastructure, recreation and a flexible mix of uses.
Councillor Kamala Guliyeva, cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure, said: "Daventry is a fantastic town with a strong sense of community and a proud heritage. This masterplan sets out a positive vision for the future and identifies opportunities to make the town centre even more attractive, welcoming and enjoyable."
The council intends to prioritise the proposed play area alongside smaller improvements, including planting, lighting and public art.
Cabinet members will consider endorsing the masterplan on November 10.
Approval would allow further feasibility studies, funding applications and project development, although individual schemes would still require separate approval before proceeding.
The council hopes the strategy will encourage future investment and help secure Daventry's position as a shopping, leisure and community destination.