More views needed on town's masterplan, says Labour

The Northampton masterplan includes revamping the site of the former Greyfriars bus station

An opposition party has said residents and businesses needed more time to have their say on a town's improvement plans.

The consultation in Northampton, has already attracted more than 1,300 responses, with the deadline already extended by a fortnight to Monday, 25 August.

Reform UK-controlled West Northamptonshire Council said it would help "directly shape" the future of the town.

But Labour Group Leader on the authority, Sally Keeble, said "local people need a bigger say" in the masterplan taking deadline into September.

A masterplan was revealed last month, outlining several developments that were already taking place in Northampton and setting priorities for the future.

Respondents to the consultation have offered suggestions such as making Northampton a distinctive leisure destination, which was "better at showcasing its heritage and identity".

People also said they wanted the town to be easier and safer to walk and cycle around.

The plan includes six priority areas including heritage and shoe-making areas

Keeble said: "Development of the heart of the town is long overdue, but Northampton people need to be in the driving seat.

"The town already bears the scars of botched regeneration projects."

The Labour group has said current consultation needed to be extended further "beyond the summer holidays".

It also said local resident and community groups should be consulted.

Labour also said the Northampton Forward group, made up of the council, local organisations and businesses, needed reforming "to give local people more say in the plans and their roll-out".

Keeble said the current consultation "does not give people a realistic chance to put forward their views on plans that will have a big impact on their lives".

The ruling Reform UK group has been contacted for further comment.