Partner identified for 'mouth of hell' site revival

The Greyfriars site has remained largely undeveloped since the demolition of the former bus station in 2015

A national partner has been identified to deliver the regeneration of a site where a bus station dubbed the "mouth of hell" once stood.

English Cities Fund (ECF) - a joint venture between Legal & General, Homes England, and Muse - will work on redeveloping Greyfriars in Northampton town centre.

The 14-acre (56,700 sqm) site has remained largely vacant since the demolition of the former Greyfriars bus station in 2015.

But a partnership between ECF and Conservative-controlled West Northamptonshire Council could see the site and several derelict buildings developed with "exciting new uses".

The authority said that the Corn Exchange building could form an arts and culture hub, whilst Belgrave House provided opportunities for "an innovative workplace and business incubator".

ECF, a joint venture between Legal & General, Homes England Muse will deliver the regeneration of the Greyfriars site

New homes, shops, cafes, restaurants and an outdoor amphitheatre are also planned as part of a new neighbourhood in the town.

Dan Lister, from the council, said: "This partnership is an exciting step forward in our vision to regenerate the Greyfriars site into a vibrant neighbourhood which is set to amplify this part of town and turn this into a reality.

“ECF obtain a wide breadth of skills and knowledge which they will be bringing to West Northamptonshire as part of a long-term relationship to bring forward a viable and sustainable scheme."

'Unlock potential'

The council said the redevelopment would "help drive the economy of the town centre", adding that as many as 7,000 full-time jobs could be created during construction.

Its partnership with ECF - which works with local authorities across the country - to shape planning for the site is expected next summer.

Sir Michael Lyons, chair at ECF, said: "Greyfriars has the potential to drive significant social and economic value and working together we can unlock the opportunity.

"Having expanded in size to £400m, ECF stands ready to collaborate with ambitious partners to deliver transformative regeneration."

Channel 4 presenter and designer Kevin McCloud once dubbed Greyfriars bus station "a great big mouth of hell"