Public consultation opens for next phase of active travel scheme in Northampton as design refined

A public consultation has opened for the next phase of an active travel scheme in Northampton – and the design has been refined.

The consultation, which is now open, seeks views on proposals to improve safety, accessibility, walking and cycling links around the Abington Park area.

The scheme forms part of the wider Northampton Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP), which has been ongoing for a number of years.

According to West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), following consultation in spring 2023 and a review of feedback received, the design for phase three has been refined. This phase focuses on Abington Park Crescent and the junction with Park Avenue South and King Edward Road.

• A simplified layout of the junction of Park Avenue South, Abington Park Crescent and King Edward Road in response to residents’ safety concerns raised during the previous consultation

• Closure of the eastern end of King Edward Road to reduce the risk of accidents caused by vehicles crossing from or toward Abington Park Crescent

• A proposed one-way system on part of Abington Park Crescent, enabling new walking and cycling facilities while maintaining vehicle access for residents and visitors

• Formalised parking arrangements to reduce obstructive footway parking and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists

• Upgraded facilities in Abington Park for users, promoting the park as an important local destination.

  
  

These proposals follow improvements in December 2024 at the southern end of the Park Avenue South junction with Billing Road and Rushmere Road, along with confirmation of phase two works for the remaining length of Park Avenue South and Bridgewater Drive, due for delivery in early 2026.

Councillor Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “This consultation is everyone’s opportunity to influence how these plans progress.

“We recognise that people are likely to have strong views about some of the proposed changes, particularly the junction redesign and the one-way system.

“We have already listened carefully to residents once, and their feedback significantly shaped the revised scheme. We want to hear from everyone again before final decisions are made.”

Following the consultation, all feedback will be reviewed and published. The outcomes will directly influence whether the proposals move forward, or how they are adapted prior to detailed design and implementation, according to WNC.

The consultation runs until Sunday January 18, 2026. Residents can view the full proposals, speak with staff or submit comments via the council’s online portal.

There is also an engagement event from 2-8pm on Thursday December 11, 2025 at Abington Park Museum.