Planners have given the go-ahead to Northamptonshire County Council's plans to transform derelict land in the heart of Northampton into a new headquarters and office building saving tax payers millions of pounds and generating a massive cash injection to the town centre.

Councillors on Northampton Borough Council's Planning Committee gave permission to the plans at a meeting this evening and now work will continue identifying the constructors for the project with a building at the Angel Street site estimated to start early next year.

Leader of the council Cllr Jim Harker heralded the permission as a 'landmark' decision and one which will transform the town centre and bring more than 2,000 new people into the town centre on a daily basis.

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He said: "We are clearly delighted to have secured this permission which is a real landmark paving the way to one of the most significant regeneration developments in the town under the Northampton Alive programme.

"This building is essential for us as an organisation as it will allow us to make £54m worth of savings by moving out of a current stock of 12 expensive to run, ageing HQ buildings in Northampton into one purpose-built energy efficient, low carbon building.

"Moreover the new headquarters will bring 2,000 members of staff into town centre giving a welcome boost to town-centre traders by bringing more spending power into the area."

The design for the building which went to planners was that of international architectural and engineering practice BDP who were appointed by the council following a rigorous selection process and public exhibition last year.

(CD/MH)