Next phase of Northampton walking and cycling improvements set to begin next month

West Northamptonshire Council has confirmed that work on phase two of the Abington Active Travel Scheme will start on June 8, with the project expected to be completed by autumn 2026.

The £4.7 million scheme will focus on Park Avenue South and Bridgewater Drive and aims to improve routes for pedestrians, cyclists and wheelchair users.

Delivered by Kier on behalf of the council, the project will include new and improved footways, segregated cycle lanes and other measures designed to make travel safer and more accessible.

Council leaders say the improvements will strengthen links between residential areas, schools, Northampton town centre and local facilities, while also improving access to Abington Park.

The scheme is intended to encourage more people to choose walking, wheeling and cycling for everyday journeys, helping to reduce congestion and cut carbon emissions while promoting healthier lifestyles.

Funding for the project has come from the Active Travel Fund, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and local transport grants.

The council stressed that phase two should not be confused with phase three of the Abington Active Travel Scheme, which was consulted on earlier this year and is currently being redesigned following feedback from residents.

Work will be carried out in stages in an effort to minimise disruption. However, temporary traffic management measures, road closures and diversions will be required during construction.

The authority said access to homes and businesses would be maintained throughout the works and residents will receive regular updates through letters, on-site signage and online information.

Councillor Richard Butler, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “This next phase of the Abington Active Travel Scheme will make a positive difference to how people get around this part of Northampton.

“By creating safer and more accessible routes, we are making it easier for people to walk, wheel and cycle as part of their everyday journeys.

“We have listened to feedback from residents and will continue to work closely with the community while the work is carried out.”