Government agrees station funding

Ministers have today approved £10m of Government funding for the redevelopment of Northampton station designed to help transform the town’s economy.

Transport Secretary Justine Greening and Communities and Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles have signed off a two-year funding deal to go towards the redevelopment of Northampton Station.

The redevelopment is the first step in a substantial regeneration project in the town which will stimulate the growth of Northampton’s economy creating opportunities for thousands of new jobs.

Transport Secretary Justine Greening said:

“Northampton deserves a station that will be a brand new ‘Gateway’ to the town and stimulate the redevelopment of the station area. But more importantly it will give a boost to the Waterside Enterprise Zone and its ambitious plans to unlock the town are potential and encourage more businesses into the area.

“After the Northampton Waterside Scheme was designated as an Enterprise Zone last year, Northampton and local MPs, led by Brian Binley, made a great case for extra Government investment in Northampton Station and I’m proud that we have been able to provide this funding.”

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said:

“Northamptonshire is using its Enterprise Zone to energise the local economy and boost business. As these new opportunities for innovation and enterprise open up it is vital the infrastructure is in place to match Northampton’s ambitions.

“This £10million for the Castle Railway station is another step forward in Northampton’s resurgence as a place where local communities thrive.”

Together with funding from Network Rail and Northamptonshire County Council the Government’s contribution will go towards phase one of the redevelopment scheme which includes a new station building and access to the platforms, which will bring benefits to passengers.

The West Northamptonshire Development Corporation can now look at how they can take forward subsequent phases of the £20m redevelopment which will include a new larger car park and release of land for commercial opportunities close to the station.