A long-neglected brownfield site situated in a prominent gateway location on the edge of Northampton Town Centre has been awarded £1.37 million from the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund.
The former St James bus depot will be transformed into a vibrant new neighbourhood. West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) Cabinet has approved the plans for the regeneration scheme, which will enable the development of more than 70 family homes.
The 4.5-acre site, built in the early 1900s, was home to Northampton’s tram and bus depot until its closure in 2013. After being purchased by Church’s in 2014 and remaining vacant, the site was acquired by WNC in November 2023. The Council has identified a significant need for quality housing in the area, and this project is a crucial step towards meeting that demand.
The redevelopment of the St James Depot site presents several challenges, including asbestos and ground contamination, flooding risk, and structural deterioration. Additionally, any development must retain the Grade II listed Transport Office, built in the 1930s. The funding requirements stipulate that the contract for these remedial works must be in place by 31 March 2025.
Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure, said: “This approval marks a significant step forward in transforming the St James Depot site into a vibrant gateway for Northampton Town Centre.
“By revitalising this area, we are not only preserving the historical significance of the Transport Office but also addressing the urgent need for quality housing and boosting the local economy. We will seek to work with developers to maintain and enhance the external façade of the buildings, to elevate this area where possible.
“With the Cabinet’s approval, we are now ready to tackle the challenges ahead, site remediation including asbestos removal and structural preservation. We are committed to delivering a project that benefits our residents and the wider community.”
With the Cabinet’s approval, the next steps will include:
- Transport Offices: The Grade II listed building will undergo a light strip out of fixtures and fittings, with asbestos removal where it does not impact listed features.
- Original Section of Tram Depot: The front and rear facades of the original building will be retained. Works will include an internal strip out and asbestos removal. Roof coverings will be removed, but the roof structure and internal walls will remain to support the facades.
- Bus Depot Extension: The mid to late 20th-century extension will be demolished. Hoarding will be reinstated to secure the site post-demolition.
