Visitors to Northampton could soon be greeted by a vision of the town’s past as a heritage project is set to highlight centuries of Northampton’s rich history.
Plans are being developed by Northampton Borough Council, Northamptonshire County Council, West Northamptonshire Development Corporation, Friends of Northampton Castle and the Churches Conservation Trust to create a heritage gateway on the former site of the town’s castle. As a former seat of power for the kings and queens of England, Northampton’s history is nationally significant as the town has witnessed many major events through the centuries.
Councillor David Mackintosh, Leader of Northampton Borough Council said:
"The story of our town is fascinating, and we need to do more to celebrate the importance of Northampton through the ages. Through Northampton Alive and our Enterprise Zone it is easy to see our town has a bright future, but just how much do people know of our rich heritage? We have the opportunity to make a feature of our heritage and attract more visitors to our town.”
The proposed heritage gateway would be located at the western entrance to the town centre. Taking in Castle Station, St Peter’s Church and Black Lion Inn as well as the wider area.
Councillor Mackintosh added:
"When people arrive in Northampton I want them to feel they are coming to a town that is proud of its heritage. We have stories that need telling. A heritage gateway would help us bring together much of our history as well as drawing attention to our many other historic assets.
"There is a real interest in where we have come from. Looking back through the centuries we have monarchs and crusading knights, traitors and plotters, the families of the America’s Founding Fathers, craftsmen of the highest quality and much more. At last we are starting to bring this all together for residents and visitors who want to discover our past.”
Further information about the proposals to create a heritage gateway will be discussed by Northampton Borough Council in the new year.
