'Swift and safe' work to get fire-hit road reopen

A former ex-servicemen's club on Sheep Street in Northampton was destroyed

Demolition of a Grade II listed building destroyed in an arson attack has begun, amid hopes the town centre road it stands on will fully reopen early in 2026.

The fire in the empty, former ex-servicemen's club started early on 30 March in Sheep Street, Northampton.

West Northamptonshire Council said efforts had been made to preserve anything historically significant but "early assessments suggest little remains that can be salvaged".

Richard Butler, cabinet member for highways and transport, said the authority was "doing everything we can to get [Sheep Street] reopened as soon as possible".

The work has closed the road to cars, although a small section has been open for pedestrians

Butler, a Reform UK councillor, added: "Our teams are working closely with the demolition crew to move swiftly and safely, and we're optimistic that the road will be back in use not far into the new year."

He said if "unforeseen circumstances" delayed the reopening the local community would be informed.

The council said it would cover the cost of the work but "a charge on the land will enable us to recover costs associated with the demolition and clearance".

It added there had been several "challenges", including disconnected utilities, asbestos removal and work on the green BT Openreach street cabinet.

The building, at the junction with Church Lane, had been empty for several years.

Northamptonshire Police has said it continues to try to identify the person or persons who started the fire.