The Planning Committee of North Northamptonshire Council met on Wednesday 21 January 2026, deferring two planning applications due to concerns over advertising and consultation processes, while granting permission for chimney repairs at Park Junior School. The meeting was chaired by Councillor Chris Kellett.

Oundle Rugby Football Club Application Deferred

The committee considered an application for a 3G artificial grass pitch at Oundle Rugby Football Club, Occupation Road, Oundle, PE8 4RU. The proposal included spectator paths, sports lighting, and biodiversity enhancements. Several issues were raised by speakers, including pitch dimensions, local resident objections, flood risk, parking, traffic, safety, and the impact of flood lighting.

During the discussion, Legal Adviser Nazneen Roy raised concerns about whether the application had been advertised in the correct local publications. As a result, the meeting was adjourned to allow officers to verify the advertising details. Upon reconvening, Head of Development Management and Enforcement Alex Chrusciak could not conclusively confirm the advertising placement, other than it appearing in the Kettering (Northants) Evening Telegraph, which officers believed covered the Oundle area. Committee members noted that this newspaper is now known as the Northants Evening Telegraph and does include information for the Thrapston and Oundle areas. However, due to the uncertainty, and the fact that the next application might also be affected, the Legal Adviser recommended deferring both items for re-consultation and appropriate advertising.

Councillor Paul Brooke proposed, and Councillor Maurice Eglin seconded, that the item be deferred. This motion was carried, meaning the application will be reconsidered at a future meeting after proper advertising and consultation.

Former Estate Office, Lilford Application Deferred

The committee also considered an application for the Former Estate Office at Lilford, PE8 5SG, which proposed five holiday lets. The officer report recommended approval, but as with the previous item, officers were unable to confirm the advertising details. Legal Adviser Nazneen Roy advised that the recommendation should be updated to defer the item.

Councillor Jennie Bone proposed, and Councillor David Brackenbury seconded, that this application also be deferred for re-consultation and advertising as appropriate. This was carried by the committee. The matter will be brought before a future committee meeting.

Park Junior School Chimney Replacement Approved

Planning permission was granted for the replacement of the upper stone and brick pier section of the Victorian chimney at Park Junior School, Wood Street, Kettering, NN16 9SE. The replacement will use like-for-like materials, including red facing brickwork, decorative stone dressings, and a timber louvre supporting a decorative stone cap.

Alan Chapman, Development Management Officer, presented the report. Members inquired about the cost, which was estimated to be around £200,000. While some concern was raised about the longevity of the proposed materials, members acknowledged the architect's impressive previous work and emphasised the paramount importance of ensuring the safety of children at the school. The chimney's safety and the removal of scaffolding were considered advantageous.

The Chair moved the recommendation for approval, seconded by Councillor Eglin. Following debate, the motion was put to a vote, with 11 votes in favour, one against, and no abstentions. Planning permission was granted, subject to the conditions outlined in the report.

Committee Update Noted

The committee also noted the Committee Update Report for 21 January 2026.