The Executive of North Northamptonshire Council approved a four-year contract for the procurement of waste and recycling containers and adopted an updated Highway Network Management Plan. They also agreed to proceed with the development of a town centre masterplan for Wellingborough, followed by Kettering, and decided to prepare the new Local Plan under the Government's revised development plan system.

Procurement of Waste and Recycling Containers

The Executive approved the procurement of a four-year agreement for the supply, storage, and delivery of waste and recycling containers for properties across North Northamptonshire. This decision aims to ensure a secure and reliable supply of containers, accommodate population growth, and promote a harmonised service to encourage recycling. The contract will provide a clear pricing structure, aiding the Council's budget forecasting for the next four years. An alternative option of single-use plastic liners was considered but discounted due to cost and logistical burdens. Authority has been delegated to the Executive Director of Place and Economy, in consultation with the Executive Member for Assets, Waste and Environmental Services, to finalise the arrangements.

Highway Network Management Plan

The Council's updated Highway Network Management Plan (NMP) was approved, replacing the legacy Northamptonshire County Council plan from 2021. The NMP sets out the Council's framework for managing, maintaining, and developing its highway network to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability. It aligns with national legislation, including the Highways Act 1980, the Traffic Management Act 2004, and the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991, and supports the Council's Corporate Plan and Local Transport Plan. Key updates include strengthened enforcement for highway obstructions, integration with the Electric Vehicle charging infrastructure strategy, and alignment with a risk-based approach to asset management. Authority has been delegated to the Executive Director of Place and Economy, in consultation with the Director of Law and Governance and the Executive Member, to make any necessary in-year changes arising from legislative updates.

Growth of Town Centres - Masterplan Development

The Executive approved the production of a Town Centre Masterplan for Wellingborough, with a masterplan for Kettering to follow thereafter. This decision is based on a strategic review by consultants Urban Foresight, which assessed the vitality and viability of the four growth town centres: Corby, Kettering, Rushden, and Wellingborough. Wellingborough was identified as having the highest structural need and the greatest potential for transformative impact, making it the priority for the initial masterplan. Kettering was identified as the second priority due to its strong strategic role and clear regeneration opportunities. The phased approach is driven by available budget and resources, aiming to ensure quality plans and effective delivery. The masterplans will guide future development and investment, supporting the Council's corporate priority to improve town centres.

Local Plan Timetable

The Executive agreed that work on the Local Plan for the period 2024-2045 will be progressed under the new development plan system (Option B) once the relevant regulations come into force in early 2026. This decision aims to avoid the significant risks associated with continuing under the current system (Option A), particularly the tight deadline for submission by 31st December 2026, which could lead to the Council having to restart the process. Option B offers more time for technical work and stakeholder engagement, resulting in a single, simpler, and more user-friendly Local Plan. Authority has been delegated to the Executive Director for Place & Economy, in consultation with the Executive Member for Planning and Economic Growth and the Local Plan Member Advisory Group, to manage the preparation and update of the Local Plan timetable, undertake scoping consultations, and submit a Gateway 1 self-assessment.

Post-Financial Settlement General Fund Draft Budget Update Report 2026-27

The Executive noted the funding changes to the draft budget for 2026-27, as detailed in the report, following the publication of the provisional Local Government Finance Settlement. They approved budget changes amounting to £8.322 million, which adjusts the financial position reported in December 2025. This update ensures the Council complies with its constitutional and legislative requirements in setting the budget for North Northamptonshire Council from 2026-27.

Saunders Close Kettering & Lawrence Factory Desborough Capital Works

Approval was given to commence the procurement process for the full demolition of properties at Saunders Close in Kettering and the Lawrence Factory site in Desborough. This decision is driven by safety concerns, significant disrepair, and ongoing anti-social behaviour, including arson attempts at Saunders Close. Demolition is considered the most cost-effective way to remove these risks and ongoing security costs. The estimated cost of £1.5 million for the scheme in 2026/27 is anticipated to be funded by borrowing and is included in the draft Capital Programme. Authority has been delegated to the Assistant Director of Assets & Environment, in consultation with the Executive Member for Assets, Waste and Environmental Services, to manage the project and award the contract.

Tree Management Policy

The Executive approved the updated Tree Management Policy, which sets out the Council's approach to managing its tree stock responsibly, sustainably, and efficiently. The policy aims to ensure public safety, promote biodiversity, and support climate resilience by outlining inspection regimes, risk management procedures, and technical pruning standards. It replaces the previous Tree Management and Care Policy, introducing a more detailed operational approach with greater emphasis on legal compliance and structured maintenance cycles. The policy supports the Council's commitments to a greener environment and its obligations under the Environment Act 2021. Authority has been delegated to the Assistant Director of Assets and Environment, in consultation with the Executive Member for Assets, Waste and Environment, to make any necessary amendments prior to publication.

The meeting was held on Tuesday 20 January 2026 at the Council Chamber, Corby Cube, George Street, Corby, NN17 1QG. The meeting was attended by Councillors Martin Griffiths (Chair), Eddie McDonald, Brian Benneyworth, Graham Cheatley, Ken Harrington, Kirk Harrison, Chris McGiffen, Jan O'Hara, Gregory Wilcox, and Elizabeth Wright. Jane Bethea and Cornelia Andrecut were also in attendance.

The decisions made during the meeting are subject to call-in by the Scrutiny Committee.