Transformation of former St James Depot gathers pace this winter

Tuesday, 20 January 2026 11:12

Work to prepare the former St James Bus Depot in Northampton is moving into its final stages, ahead of the regeneration of this vacant brownfield site.

The careful demolition works are nearing completion, marking a significant milestone in transforming this area, ahead of West Northamptonshire Council appointing a preferred developer.

Progress was made throughout 2025, with activity slowing at the end of the year to enable essential planning checks and detailed ground testing to take place. These investigations have now confirmed exactly what work is required for the next phase.

Work restarted this week (19 January) and includes:

Final ground clean-up works based on the investigation findings
Remediation inside the former Transport Offices, including light strip-out and limited asbestos removal
Improved site security, with new fencing, secure window coverings and protective hoarding

The final stages of the demolition and remediation works are expected to finish during February 2026. Contractor Armac will continue to keep nearby residents informed as work progresses.

Looking ahead, the transformation of the St James Bus Depot site offers a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant, high-quality scheme for local residents. West Northamptonshire Council’s ambition is to see the site brought forward for a sustainable mixed-use development that supports jobs, investment and improved connections in this part of Northampton.

This is an exciting milestone for the St James Bus Depot site. Completing the remediation work will allow us to move forward with confidence and brings us closer to delivering our long-term vision to bring new life, activity and opportunity to this area.Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council

Alongside the site works, the council has now started the process of appointing a development partner and is working towards having a preferred developer on board by autumn 2026, helping to unlock the next chapter for this key Northampton site.

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