The Executive of North Northamptonshire Council met on Tuesday 14 July 2026, approving updates to the capital programme, establishing a development impact fund, and authorising significant refurbishment and procurement projects. Key decisions included the approval of a £30.6 million increase to the capital programme, the creation of the Magna Park (Corby) Development Impact Fund, and the commencement of procurement for new ICT systems and essential refurbishment works to council properties.

Capital Programme Update 2026/27

The Council's capital programme for 2026/27 to 2029/30 was updated, with an increase of approximately £30.6 million, bringing the total programme to £308.6 million. This adjustment reflects carry-forwards from the previous year, confirmed grant funding, and reprofiled expenditure. Councillor Graham Cheatley, Executive Member for Finance, Efficiency and Change, presented the report, highlighting that no new borrowing was being sought, with the programme funded through grants, capital receipts, Section 106 contributions, and existing approved funding streams. Councillor Elizabeth Wright, Executive Member for Children and Young People, seconded the report, emphasizing the importance of capital investment for children, young people, and families, particularly in providing additional school places, improving educational facilities, and investing in specialist provision for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The Executive unanimously approved the changes.

Magna Park (Corby) Development Impact Fund

A Magna Park (Corby) Development Impact Fund was approved to allocate £894,914.56 of Section 106 funding secured from the Magna Park development. Councillor Jan O'Hara, Executive Member for Planning & Economic Growth, introduced the report, explaining that the fund aims to mitigate the impact of the development on local communities. The fund will operate as a grant scheme, open to council services, parish councils, and community groups, with a panel of Executive Members and the Chair of Place and Environment Scrutiny Committee overseeing the allocation of funds. Councillor Chris Kellett seconded the report, highlighting the planning department's progress with new systems and officer retention. The Executive unanimously approved the creation of the fund and its operational framework.

Swanspool House (and Annex), Croyland Hall and Abbey Refurbishment

The Executive approved the procurement of refurbishment and condition improvement works for Swanspool House, its Annex, Croyland Hall, and Abbey in Wellingborough, with a total budget of £3.84 million. Councillor Ken Harrington, Executive Member for Assets, Waste and Environmental Services, presented the report, noting that these Grade II listed buildings had significant maintenance backlogs. Councillor Chris Mundy, a ward councillor, spoke in strong support, emphasizing the investment in Wellingborough town centre and its heritage. Councillor Elizabeth Wright, Executive Member for Children and Young People, seconded the report, highlighting the benefit of consolidating Children's Trust staff into a single location to improve collaboration and service delivery. Councillor Kirk-Harrison also spoke in support, noting the buildings' long-standing need for renovation. The Executive unanimously approved the procurement and delegated authority for its delivery.

Property and Land Management ICT System Procurement

Approval was given to commence the procurement process for a new Property and Land Management ICT system to replace the existing K2 system. Councillor Ken Harrington explained that the current system is outdated and unable to support the corporate landlord model, which is due for implementation from June 2026. The new system will consolidate all property and land data into a single platform, with an estimated cost of £487,500 over five years plus £72,000 for implementation, to be funded from existing budgets. Councillor Kirk-Harrison seconded the report, highlighting the system's criticality for efficiency and compliance. The Executive unanimously approved the commencement of the procurement process.

Replacement Gym Equipment 2026

The Executive approved the procurement of replacement gym equipment for Corby East Midlands International Pool and Lodge Park Sports Centre. Councillor Brian Benneyworth, Executive Member for Housing, Health and Leisure, presented the report, emphasizing the importance of modern equipment for health and wellbeing outcomes and income generation. Councillor Benneyworth highlighted the success of the existing EGYM smart fitness equipment, noting high retention rates and significant health benefits for users. Councillor Benneyworth also addressed concerns raised by Councillor Ben Jamieson regarding the equitable investment across North Northamptonshire, stating that further proposals for other leisure facilities would be brought forward in due course. Councillor Kirk-Harrison seconded the report, praising the positive health outcomes and participation numbers. The Executive unanimously approved the procurement.

National Non-Domestic Rates Write-Offs

The Executive approved the write-off of £1,147,094.32 in outstanding National Non-Domestic Rates debts. Councillor Graham Cheatley, Executive Member for Finance, Efficiency and Change, explained that these debts were deemed irrecoverable due to businesses entering administration, liquidation, or dissolution. He stressed that write-offs are a last resort, pursued only after all reasonable recovery actions have been exhausted. Councillor Chris McGiffen seconded the report, noting that the write-offs were accounted for within the bad debt provision and followed a general trend, with overall collection performance remaining strong. The Executive unanimously approved the write-off.

Swansgate Shopping Centre, Wellingborough - Lease Agreement

The public and press were excluded from the meeting for the consideration of this exempt item. The Executive resolved to approve the agreement of a new lease for the Swanspool Shopping Centre and delegated authority for its completion. This decision is subject to call-in.