Purpose

To consider and approve the Wellingborough Town Centre Masterplan

Decision

RESOLVED

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

(a)     Approved the Wellingborough Town Centre Masterplan (Appendix A).

(b)     Endorsed the proposed way forward identified in the Next Steps Report (Appendix C) to be progressed through:

a.     Further work including surveys, feasibility studies, detailed designs etc.

b.     Defined governance and delivery arrangements.

c.      Clear project ownership, supported by active collaboration with stakeholders and landowners.

d.     Full integration of social and economic priorities to deliver a holistic approach to town centre regeneration.

(c)     Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Place, in consultation with the Executive Member for Planning and Economic Growth to:

•         Implement the Wellingborough Town Centre Masterplan, Next Steps Report and any associated action plans.

•         Establish and oversee appropriate governance arrangements, including a Wellingborough Stakeholder Focus Group.

•         Coordinate delivery activity, partnership working and ongoing monitoring of progress.

Reasons for Recommendation:

•         Approving the Masterplan will provide a clear and coordinated framework to guide the future development and regeneration of Wellingborough town centre. It will help ensure that investment and projects are aligned, reducing the risk of piecemeal development.

•         The Masterplan is based on evidence and stakeholder input, giving it a strong foundation and helping to attract funding and investment.

•         Agreeing the next steps will enable progress from planning to delivery, with clear priorities, responsibilities, and timescales.

•         Delegating authority will allow timely decision-making, while the proposed governance structure will ensure appropriate oversight, coordination, and monitoring.

•         Overall, the recommendations will support a more vibrant, resilient, and sustainable town centre.

Alternative Options Considered: The Council could choose not to approve the Masterplan; however, this would limit the ability to take a strategic and co-ordinated approach to town centre regeneration, potentially resulting in fragmented development and missed opportunities to attract investment.