Calls For Re-Think Over Re-Development Plan

There are calls for a re-think on plans to build homes on the derelict Lawrence’s Factory site in Desborough.

North Northamptonshire Council, who own the site off Harborough Road, wants to build 43 ‘affordable’ homes on the site off Harborough Road.

But Desborough Town Council say the best option is for a mixed development including retail, commercial and community buildings.

It’s chairman, Cllr Phil Sawford, said: “The proper development of this site is vital to the future of Desborough. At the moment it is a jungle. That is 15 years after bold plans to invite a mixed development were invited by (the now defunct) Kettering Council.

“The town is crying out for facilities to meet the needs of the growing population. I believe NNC should strongly consider contacting retail chains to see if there is still interest in the site.

“NNC is a new body and this is an opportunity to bring fresh eyes to bear on the project. Social housing is needed in the town but there are better sites for it than this.

“If we lose this opportunity to create a community-friendly option for the town centre, Desborough will be the poorer for it.”

PIC: ANDY CARPENTER

It is believed a covenant agreed between Kettering Council and the former site owners, the Co-op, is an obstacle to developing the site because it bans the sale of foodA project design consultation said construction on any housing scheme could potentially start by June 2022.

A spokesman for North Northamptonshire Council said: “The council is working hard to bring the Lawrence site back into use for the benefit of the local community.

“For more than 20 years the site has been derelict and over that time a variety of proposals have been suggested for it.

“These have included retail, commercial and community developments but unfortunately none have proved to be viable.

“The council’s current scheme involves the development of the site to provide 43 homes for affordable rent. Such homes are badly needed by local people with 53 households from Desborough alone on the Keyways housing register and looking for somewhere to live.

“The council has been consulting a range of stakeholders over the past six months and most have broadly supported the proposals. We will continue to consult the town council and local people as the scheme is progressed.”