The Executive of North Northamptonshire Council met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to discuss a range of significant issues, approving the Wellingborough Town Centre Masterplan, a phased transition of leisure facilities to an in-house model, and the adoption of the Grafton Underwood Neighbourhood Plan. The meeting also addressed a substantial Q1 financial overspend, the disposal of a council site for a new NHS facility, and the recommissioning of the Holiday Activities and Food Programme.

Finance and Performance Report - Q1

The Council faces a significant financial challenge, with a forecast General Fund overspend of £14.962 million at the end of Quarter 1. This overspend is largely attributed to increased demand and rising costs in services supporting vulnerable residents, including children's services, adult social care, special educational needs provision, and home-to-school transport. Councillor Graham Cheatley, Executive Member for Finance, Efficiency and Change, presented the report, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation but highlighting that mitigation plans are in place and that this is a forecast, not a final outturn. Despite the financial pressures, over 60% of the Council's corporate key performance indicators are meeting or exceeding targets, with successes noted in homelessness prevention, council tax collection, and safeguarding. The Executive approved the inclusion of £365,000 from smoothing reserves to fund a performance reporting system, the development of the Corby Town Plan, and preparatory work for the Renters' Rights Act.

Wellingborough Town Centre Masterplan

The Executive unanimously approved the Wellingborough Town Centre Masterplan, a regeneration framework designed to guide future development and investment over the next decade. Councillor Jan O'Hara, Executive Member for Planning and Economic Growth, presented the plan, emphasising its role in creating a coordinated approach to town centre regeneration rather than piecemeal development. The masterplan, informed by extensive public consultation, aims to create a more vibrant, resilient, and sustainable town centre by integrating retail, leisure, hospitality, community uses, housing, and improved public spaces. Key objectives include enhancing the town's heritage, improving connectivity, and fostering a mixed-use economy. The Executive also endorsed the proposed next steps, which involve further feasibility studies, stakeholder engagement, and the development of delivery plans. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Place to implement the masterplan and establish governance arrangements, including a Wellingborough Stakeholder Focus Group.

Management Model for the Future of Leisure Provision - Phase Two

In a significant decision, the Executive approved the phased transition of all currently externally operated leisure centres to an in-house delivery model by 2027-2028. Councillor Brian Benneyworth, Executive Member for Housing, Health and Leisure, presented the report, highlighting that this move aligns with the Council's Corporate Plan and Active Communities Strategy, aiming to provide a consistent, quality service across North Northamptonshire. The Community Plus service offer will balance affordability with service quality, prevention, and flexibility, with a focus on increasing physical activity levels to improve health outcomes and reduce inequalities. The decision was made after considering various management models, with the in-house option scoring highest for delivering strategic outcomes, control, and quality. While acknowledging concerns raised about the closure of the Corby creche, the Executive noted that its low utilisation and financial unsustainability were key factors. The phased transition is considered more pragmatic and cost-effective than a single transition point.

Professional Services and Contractor Framework Procurement

The Executive agreed to procure a Construction and Professional Services open framework for up to eight years, with contractor reviews every two years. Councillor Ken Harrington, Executive Member for Assets, Waste and Environmental Services, explained that this framework aims to simplify procurement, reduce administrative burdens, and encourage local supplier participation. The framework, estimated at a maximum value of £50 million over eight years, will allow for quicker appointment of contractors for repairs, improvements, and capital projects, with individual contracts awarded via direct award or mini-competition. Projects valued at £1 million or over will continue to be procured through external frameworks or open tenders. Authority was delegated to the Director of Assets & Environment to manage the procurement process and future call-offs.

Re-commissioning Holiday Activities and Food Programme

The Executive approved the recommissioning of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, ensuring continued support for vulnerable children and families during school holidays. Councillor Elizabeth Wright, Executive Member for Children, Education and Families, presented the report, noting the programme's success in providing nutritious meals, enriching activities, and reducing social isolation. The Department for Education has confirmed funding until at least 2028-29, allowing for a new two-year contract with two one-year extension options. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Children's Services to oversee the procurement process and award contracts. The programme is seen as vital for supporting children's potential, promoting health and wellbeing, and strengthening community networks.

Q2 Booth Drive, Wellingborough Disposal

The Executive declared the council-owned site Q2 Booth Drive in Wellingborough surplus to requirements and approved its disposal to Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Councillor Ken Harrington presented the report, explaining that the NHS intends to develop a new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) and Elective Orthopaedic Hub on the site. This development is expected to significantly improve access to NHS services for residents across Northamptonshire, reduce waiting times, and support the NHS's elective recovery plans. The disposal will generate a capital receipt for the Council, supporting its capital programme and reducing borrowing costs, while also reducing revenue holding costs for the vacant site.

Grafton Underwood Neighbourhood Plan

The Executive formally made (adopted) the Grafton Underwood Neighbourhood Plan, following a successful referendum. Councillor Jan O'Hara, Executive Member for Planning and Economic Growth, highlighted that this plan, prepared by Grafton Underwood Parish Council, now forms part of the statutory development plan for the area. The plan, supported by 83% of referendum voters, provides local policies to guide future development, protect the village's character, heritage, and green spaces, and manage housing and business development. Authority was delegated to the Executive Director of Place to publicise the decision and make minor amendments to the plan.

The meeting was confirmed as held, and decisions were made.