'We used to be a village too': Harpole and Duston share concerns about the 'relentless' building of thousands of houses in that area of Northampton

A consultation on thousands of homes proposed across West Northamptonshire took place between January 29 and March 27.

The consultation by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) set out where development could take place up to 2043, with residents encouraged to have their say. WNC is now analysing the responses.

One of the areas where thousands more homes are proposed is around Duston and Harpole, where thousands of homes are already being built.

Chronicle & Echo asked Duston and Harpole Parish Councils how residents are feeling about this large-scale development.

Chair of Harpole Parish Council, Frank Smethers said: “In recent years, the scale of development within the parish of Harpole has at times felt relentless – and understandably so, given that the number of houses has doubled in just three years. While the parish recognises the national shortage of homes and has been broadly supportive of new development, our priority – shared with many neighbouring parishes – is ensuring that the necessary infrastructure is properly planned, delivered alongside applications, and completed within agreed timeframes. We continue to work closely with WNC to help make this happen.

“Many residents are understandably concerned about Harpole being absorbed into Northampton, and the Parish Council shares these concerns.

"We remain committed to protecting the village’s identity while also ensuring that all new residents feel welcomed as part of the wider parish.

"Harpole Parish Council already includes two councillors who live within the Western Gate development, and their insight is proving valuable in this regard.

“The general mood is perhaps one of resignation, but we will see the greater benefits with time.”

Chair of Duston Parish Council, Jan Ennis-Clark added: “The overwhelming concern from Duston residents is the protection of Harlestone Firs. People in Duston do not want any more houses built on Harlestone Firs, as they really value it.

“The problem with new housing developments on the edge of Duston is that we have already seen a significant increase in traffic coming through the parish. Many drivers are now using Duston as a rat run to reach other destinations like Sixfields, which is putting additional pressure on local roads.

“There should be funding available from these new housing developments to help mitigate the increase in traffic, particularly to support infrastructure improvements that benefit Duston residents.

“I also understand the concerns being raised by residents in Harpole. After all, a few decades ago Duston itself was a separate village from Northampton before eventually becoming absorbed into the town. These are important issues for our local communities, and their voices should be carefully considered as part of the draft Local Plan process.”

Harlestone Parish Council chairman Sarah Stock has also previously said: “Harlestone residents are appalled by the proposal. We feel very strongly that eroding the countryside like this is bad for the village and bad for the town – it’s a much-loved recreation spot, and putting housing right next to it will be massively detrimental to Harlestone Firs.”

WNC previously said: “WNC is currently consulting on the new draft local plan, which sets out how the area could grow and develop up to 2043. It includes updated policies on housing, town centres, employment land, infrastructure and the environment, and will guide future planning decisions across West Northamptonshire.

“This is an early stage in the plan-making process, and no decisions have yet been made. All comments submitted during the consultation will be reviewed and used to shape the next version of the Plan before it progresses later this year.”