The Strategic Planning Committee of West Northamptonshire Council met on Wednesday 25 February 2026 to discuss a major planning application for commercial development at Sixfields Stadium. The committee approved the recommendations for the application, subject to conditions and the completion of a Section 106 Agreement.

Sixfields Stadium Commercial Development Approved

The committee granted permission for speculative commercial development on land to the northwest and east of Sixfields Stadium, Edgar Mobbs Way, Northampton. The development will comprise flexible uses within Use Classes B2 (General Industrial), B8 (Storage and Distribution), E(g)(ii) (Research and Development), and E(g)(iii) (Light Industrial), with ancillary offices (E(g)(i)), along with associated service roads, yard areas, car parking, and landscape planting.

The decision was made in line with the officer's recommendation, subject to conditions and the completion of a Section 106 Agreement. This agreement will secure contributions towards employment training (£34,916), public transport enhancement (TBC), travel plan monitoring (£5,000), biodiversity net gain monitoring (£9,000), and S106 monitoring (£5,000).

During the meeting, several stakeholders raised concerns. John Morgan, representing the Northampton Town Supporters Ltd, voiced objections regarding the loss of the running track lease land, the lapse of its Asset of Community Value status, the scale of the proposed warehouses, the reduction in car parking, and the perceived lack of community benefit. Councillor Mark Watson of Upton Parish Council highlighted concerns about inconsiderate parking and highway disruption on match days, the reliance on the Dustin Mill car park, and the loss of spaces at the Claret car park. Councillor John East, representing Dallington Spencer Ward, objected on the grounds of severe congestion on road infrastructure, flawed traffic modelling, parking deficits, and inadequate sustainable transport links.

In support of the application, Thomas Cliffe, Chairman of the NTFC Fan Advisory Board, spoke about the development's importance for the sustainability of Northampton Town Football Club, enabling investment and potential future expansion. Kelvin Thomas, the applicant, and Andy Ryley, the agent, provided clarifications on match day parking arrangements and the club's commitment to community facilities.

The committee considered the officer's report, presentations, and public representations before reaching its decision. Councillor David Smith proposed the approval, which was seconded by Councillor Adrian Cartwright. The motion was carried with seven votes in favour, two against, and one abstention.

The approved development aims to create jobs and support economic growth, aligning with the West Northamptonshire Joint Core Strategy¹ and the Northampton Local Plan Part 2². The site is allocated for employment development and falls within the Enterprise Zone³. Officers concluded that the proposal represents a high-quality development that will integrate acceptably with its surroundings while safeguarding amenity, ecological interests, heritage assets, and highway safety.