Northampton Partnership Homes (NPH) and Northampton Borough Council (NBC) have the go-ahead to begin the redevelopment of Belgrave House in Northampton town centre. The ambitious plan, which will see a complete transformation of the existing nine-storey, empty office block into 122 brand new homes, was approved at NBC’s first virtual cabinet meeting.
This prominent development, which will be renamed The Clock House, will provide 70 one-bed and 52 two-bed flats to be offered to key workers who work within walking distance of the town centre. The existing block will be completely remodelled, adding an additional two-storeys. The outside of the building will have stained glass and varnished metal applied from top to bottom, with a clock tower that will light up at night, creating a landmark in the town.
The brand-new homes will be offered to people working in the town centre’s retail and leisure outlets, as well as those who provide vital services such as nurses, firefighters and teachers.
Helen Town Assistant Director of Asset Management and Development for NPH said: “Affordable housing for those who provide essential services to the people of Northampton is something we’ve been looking to address for some time. The vital work key workers carry out has been in the spotlight during the Covid-19 outbreak, and we’re thrilled to be able to start work on this development. We were particularly keen to find a town centre location to help make an impact on the local economy. We love our town and are really excited about the opportunities this scheme offers the people who work hard to keep it safe, healthy and vibrant, and may otherwise struggle to afford market rents.”
NPH and NBC anticipate that this major development, which will provide energy efficiency with solar panels installed on the roof alongside its rooftop garden, will help with the regeneration of Northampton town centre.
Helen Town added: “So many key places to work will be in walking distance: the hospital, fire station, shopping centres, pubs, businesses, food outlets… public or private sector, we want to give workers the opportunity to live in town. And if people live in town, they are more likely to spend in town too.”
