Following the exchange of a Development Agreement between West Northamptonshire Council and The English Cities Fund (ECF) - a joint venture between Legal & General, Homes England and Muse – the project has taken a major step forward. The agreement paves the way for the creation of over 1,000 new homes, retail and leisure space and sustainable transport and infrastructure, all underpinned by significant economic growth.
DWF supported West Northamptonshire Council throughout the process, providing legal advice on procurement strategy, the development agreement legal structure, and complex commercial negotiations. This work was carried out in close collaboration with the Council’s commercial advisors, Cushman Wakefield, and ECF’s legal advisors.
The DWF team advising on the scheme was led by Lee Pickett, partner and co-lead of regeneration & development (public sector), working alongside Jonathan Branton, partner and head of government & public sector; Colin Murray, partner and head of local government; Eleanor Buxton, director; and Clemma Franklin, senior associate – all from DWF’s Public Sector Group.
Lee Pickett commented: “We are delighted to support West Northamptonshire Council on a project of such scale and ambition. The Greyfriars regeneration scheme is a true example of place-making at its best—driving long-term investment, promoting sustainability, and delivering real benefits for the community. It’s a privilege to work with such a committed team and to play our part in helping to deliver the future vision for Northampton.”
Once complete, the Greyfriars scheme is expected to create up to 7,000 full-time equivalent jobs and unlock £1 billion in economic value. Local spending is forecast to increase by £21 million annually, driven by a diverse mix of residential, retail, leisure and cultural uses.
Councillor James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council, said: "This regeneration will transform the heart of Northampton, bringing lasting benefits to our communities and breathing new life into the town centre. We are delivering this ambitious vision with the invaluable support of our partners, including DWF. Their expertise has helped us drive progress and ensure this masterplan is firmly rooted in what matters to local people right here in Northampton.
“Together, we are creating a vibrant town centre design to attract investment, supports businesses, creates jobs and offers spaces that residents and visitors can be proud of. We remain committed to working hand in hand with local residents and businesses to make this shared vision a reality."
