The first planning application for development in Northampton's Waterside Enterprise Zone has been submitted.

West Northamptonshire Development Corporation has made the application for a prominent office scheme known as the Innovation Cube. Located opposite Northampton Railway Station, the 3,740 sq m building will provide office accommodation and support services for up to 60 start-up businesses. The Innovation Cube will be part of a wider mixed use development in the centre of Northampton's Waterside Enterprise Zone.


Announced by government in August, the Zone covers 120 hectares of predominantly brownfield land along the River Nene. It is led by the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership (SEMLEP), and aims to build on local sector strengths in advanced technologies, high performance engineering, and low carbon technology.

Chris Garden, Director of Regeneration at West Northamptonshire Development Corporation said: "Together with our plans for the redevelopment of Northampton Station, the Innovation Cube will form an impressive gateway into the centre of Northampton. We acquired the site last year and are currently talking to potential partners to help progress the project. As part of wider plans for the Enterprise Zone, it will be an important development for the town"

The Innovation Cube is estimated to cost in the region of £6.5m, with in-principle funding secured from a number of sources, including the European Union. The application has been submitted to WNDC's own planning department, which will be the determining authority for the scheme.

(CD)