Future growth of north Northamptonshire reviewed

Wellingborough has lost trade over the last few years, says the NNJPC

A public consultation on North Northamptonshire's future growth is taking place.

Local residents' views are being sought on the development of Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough and the surrounding towns and villages.

One idea proposed is to build more than 40,000 new homes over the next 20 years.

A strategy is being drawn up by the North Northamptonshire Joint Planning Committee (NNJPC).

It will help planners decide the new roads, schools and hospitals needed.

One proposal in the consultation document would see Corby take 18,000 new homes, the biggest number of homes in the area.

'Bigger picture'

Kettering would see 10,600 new homes, with Wellingborough taking 6,000 and East Northamptonshire 5,900.

The NNJPC will also look at what homes are needed in villages and the countryside.

It will also look at employment and the need for more jobs and services to be provided locally.

The consultation document suggests more people are shopping locally in north Northamptonshire than they were five years ago, but despite this, Kettering and Wellingborough have lost trade.

Malcolm Waters, chairman of NNJPC, said: "The joint committee is determined that the review of the plan will address the bigger picture and give a sound framework for the councils and local neighbourhoods to produce their own plans, where they wish to."

The consultation document issued by the NNJPC is available on its website.

There will also be a series of consultation meetings across the county.