Work continues behind the scenes at STACK Northampton

Work is continuing behind the scenes on the transformation of Market Walk Shopping Centre into STACK Northampton.

One of STACK’s most ambitious leisure projects to date, it involves the large-scale repurposing of Market Walk to create a vibrant, high-energy destination centred on independent street food, bars, live entertainment and community events.

And its aim is to breathe new life and footfall into the key, town-centre location.

Over the past month, the project has reached an important milestone, with the non- structural dismantling of the existing building’s interior now underway.

This early phase enables the project team to gain a full understanding of the existing structure and complete detailed digital surveys, ensuring the next stages of design and construction are based on accurate, real-world information.

Once the survey work is complete, the architects and design team will move forward with finalising the layout and design for STACK Northampton.

This will unlock the next major phase of works, which will include significant internal demolition, such as removing existing walls, escalators and lifts, and infilling existing voids to the lower ground floor to create the large, open-plan spaces central to the STACK experience.

Due to the scale and complexity of the transformation of Market Walk, the STACK team is not yet in a position to announce an opening date.

The focus remains firmly on delivering a high-quality scheme that reflects both the ambition of the project and the importance of the site within Northampton town centre.                                                                                                             

“STACK Northampton is a major project for us – both in scale and ambition.

“The works taking place now are a critical step in understanding Market Walk and making sure we get the design absolutely right.

“This is about doing the job properly and creating a destination Northampton can be proud of.

“While we’re keen to keep people updated on progress, it’s too early to confirm opening dates for a project of this complexity.”A spokesperson for STACK

“It’s great to see real progress being made at Market Walk as work towards STACK Northampton gathers momentum. This development will bring new energy into the town centre and will provide something for everyone across West Northamptonshire. This project will support existing businesses, attract new visitors, and create a destination that works for both the daytime and evening economy. Crucially, it will help better link Abington Street and Market Square, improving footfall and how people move through and experience the town centre. There is still work ahead, but the focus on getting the design and delivery right is clear and we're keen to see this take shape.”Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council

STACK has successfully delivered venues in towns and cities across the UK, with its distinctive blend of independent traders, bars and live entertainment attracting a broad and diverse audience and driving renewed footfall to urban centres.

Further updates will be shared as the project progresses and key milestones are reached.