Daventry masterplan sets out vision for vibrant town centre

Plans to improve Daventry town centre through enhanced public spaces, better connections and new opportunities for shopping, leisure and family activities are set to be considered by West Northamptonshire Council's Cabinet.

The masterplan has been developed following engagement with residents, businesses and community groups, and sets out a long-term vision for how Daventry town centre could evolve in the years ahead. Key proposals include improvements to public spaces, better walking and cycling routes, stronger links to green spaces and initiatives designed to attract more people into the town centre. 

One of the most notable proposals is the creation of a major new play destination at New Street Recreation Ground. Designed with families in mind, the scheme could include a range of play equipment, natural play features, landscaping and improved facilities, creating a new attraction for local residents and visitors.

The masterplan also identifies opportunities to improve key areas of the town centre, helping to create welcoming spaces that support local businesses while providing places for people to meet, relax and enjoy community events.

Importantly, the plan reflects what local people said they wanted to see during consultation. Feedback highlighted a desire for more family-friendly facilities, greener spaces, better connections and an enhanced town centre experience, all of which have helped shape the proposals.

The masterplan is set to become a framework to guide future investment opportunities and project development in the town centre. Individual projects would be subject to further design work, consultation and approval before any improvements are delivered.

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.

"We've listened carefully to local people throughout the process and many of the ideas in the plan, including proposals for a new destination play area, have come directly from what residents told us they wanted to see.

"While this is a long-term vision, it gives us a clear direction and puts us in a strong position to attract investment that can help bring these ideas to life."

The full masterplan can be viewed as part of the Cabinet papers ahead of the meeting on 10 November.

If endorsed, the masterplan will help guide future funding bids, investment opportunities and regeneration projects, with further consultation taking place as individual proposals are developed.