Northamptonshire council office 'would save £54m'

A purpose-built council office would save £54m by putting more than 2,000 members of staff in one building, it is claimed.

Northamptonshire County Council wants to build a £43m energy-efficient office in Angel Street, Northampton, instead of using its 12 "ageing" buildings.

The site behind County Hall is currently a council staff car park.

A report, to be discussed by the cabinet next week, says the move could save £54m in maintenance costs.

The Conservative-run council would look to move out of buildings including John Dryden House, parts of the current County Hall, Riverside House and Century House.

'So much cheaper'

The cabinet member responsible for "Project Angel", Andrew Langley, said: "This will save £54m over 30 years because the property costs on the 12 buildings are so high.

"A new building with modern energy and heating is so much cheaper."

He said council chambers would remain at County Hall, and that the new office was for "back office staff".

Opposition Liberal-Democrat councillors have in principle welcomed the proposals.

Councillor Chris Lofts said: "We think this would bring more people into the town centre which would be great for the economy.

"Our main concerns would be about traffic and parking and we await more detailed plans to see if it would work."