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Plans for the latest phase of the Northampton Marina has been granted planning permission by West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (WNDC).
Construction of the main building is expected to start in October and will mark the final step in the quickly progressing Marina development. It will be the only building located on the Marina island and will house the Manager's office, a reception area, and services for boaters including a shower and laundry facilities. It will be a key part of security for the site, with a large glass frontage providing panoramic views of the Marina for the Manager.
WNDC Chief Executive Peter Mawson said: "We are pleased to grant planning permission for the facilities building which has a high quality design and uses eco-friendly materials. It will be an important part of the marina development, which will be at the heart of a renaissance for Northampton’s waterfront."
Construction of the marina commenced in March and has progressed well. The former disused boating lake in Becket's Park has been drained, excavated and refilled. At the current time, 100 floating pontoons, which will be used by people to moor their boats, are being installed at the site.
The marina will offer 80 moorings, 6 of which will be for residential use. The remaining berths will be available for short term visitors and pleasure craft requiring long term leases. Moorings will also be available for operators of commercial leisure boats, such as hire boats and water taxis. As part of long term plans to develop Northampton into The Market City, later phases of the Becket’s Park project could deliver new landscaping, lighting, cafés and restaurants, while providing a busy, exciting link between the town centre and the waterside.
The Environment Agency is constructing the marina on behalf of the Becket’s Park Partnership. The Partnership is made up of the Environment Agency, Northampton Borough Council, the River Nene Regional Park, Northamptonshire County Council, Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited and West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (WNDC). The Marina is costing over £2 million to develop, with £1.8 million provided by WNDC alongside contributions from Northamptonshire County Council and the Environment Agency.
(CD/GK)
