The Non-Strategic Planning Committee of West Northamptonshire Council met on Thursday 8 January 2026 and approved a planning application for an extension to the Cummins Engine Company Ltd. facility in Daventry. The meeting focused solely on this single planning application.

Cummins Engine Company Ltd, Royal Oak Way, Daventry

The committee approved the application for the erection of an extension to the existing factory building, along with amendments to the car parking layout and service road alignment, and the installation of plant and a plant enclosure at Cummins Engine Company Ltd. in Daventry. This decision was made in accordance with the Case Officer's recommendation and was subject to various requirements to be set out in the minutes, including the completion of a planning obligation under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 to secure a fee for the monitoring of a travel plan over five years. Further conditions recommended by the Lead Local Flood Authority were also to be included.

Patrick Franklin, the Agent for the Applicant, spoke in support of the proposal, highlighting that the principle of development on the site was already established by its existing use. He stated that the proposal complied with all relevant policies of the development plan and the National Planning Policy Framework¹, and would improve the efficiency of the site with enhancements to the production line. Mr. Franklin also addressed concerns raised by the Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA), explaining that a recent meeting had resolved all outstanding issues. Councillor Alexander McMurtry, the local ward member for Daventry South, also submitted a written statement in support, noting the economic growth and job creation the proposal would bring to Daventry, its policy compliance, and the support from various stakeholders and consultees.

The proposal was put forward for approval by Councillor Rupert Frost and seconded by Councillor Christine Ware. The motion was carried with nine votes in favour, none against, and one abstention.

The development involves the erection of a rectangular extension to the northwest-facing elevation of the main factory building. This will necessitate revisions to the circular access route around the building and affect some staff parking. The extension is intended to balance the output of the Blockline Machining Section and the Engine Assembly Line, leading to efficiency benefits and potential job creation. The external materials will include dark grey steel profiled vertical cladding, with a lighter Anthracite Grey feature panel, extensive glazing, and 'Cummins Red' accents. The proposal will result in a net loss of 59 parking spaces, but the applicant has stated that options for supplementary car parking within the wider site will be explored.

Concerns regarding flood risk were addressed by the Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA). While initial concerns were raised about surface water drainage, a meeting between the applicant and the LLFA indicated that a technical solution could be found within the site boundaries. The LLFA's subsequent comments noted that while revised information had been submitted, further amendments were still required to fully address outstanding concerns. The report indicated that these issues were being discussed to ensure the LLFA's satisfaction.

The application was referred to the committee due to the floor area of the proposed factory extension exceeding the threshold for major applications. The report noted that no objections or support had been received from third parties or neighbours. The proposal aligns with policies promoting sustainable development and economic growth within designated employment areas.