To ensure the whole of government is geared up to deliver for the British people, the Prime Minister, with the approval of His Majesty The King, has today created four new departments.The changes will ensure the right skills and teams are focussed on the Prime Minister’s five promises: to halve inflation, grow the economy, reduce debt, cut waiting lists and stop the boats.A new Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, has been tasked with securing our long-term energy supply, bringing down bills and halving inflation. The move recognises the significant impact rising prices have had on households across the...

07 February, 2023

The Bank of England will now take forward further research and development work and the public are being invited to give their views on the scheme to be taken forward.The consultation is being launched because both HM Treasury and the Bank want to ensure the public have access to safe money that is convenient to use as our everyday lives become more digital, while supporting private sector innovation, choice and efficiency in digital payments.Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt said: "While cash is here to stay, a digital pound issued and backed by the Bank of England could be a...

07 February, 2023

Leading construction firm Stepnell Ltd has started work today (Monday 6 February) on the transformation of Northampton’s Market Square.Located at the heart of the town, Northampton’s Market Square is set to be transformed to better reflect the wonderful, historic public space that it is. As well as the use of high-quality paving and materials, the improved facilities will include a flexible event space, bespoke fixed stalls, more trees, tiered seating and an interactive water feature.Cllr Jonathan Nunn, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) and Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Town Centre Regeneration and Growth at WNC were...

07 February, 2023

The Business & IP Centre's Start Up Day is taking place on Wednesday 22nd February at Northampton Central Library running between 09.30 -16.00. Visit for all or part of the day. Many of us have fantastic ideas for businesses that we haven’t acted on and the Business & IP Centre National Network have a wealth of resources to support and inspire budding entrepreneurs to take the first step to turning their business idea into a business. Activities on the day include talks, networking and speed mentoring to help you on the way with your business journey. Complimentary professional headshots will also be available. Here...

06 February, 2023

An apprenticeship scheme at North Northamptonshire Council is going from strength to strength with 80 active learners now employed by the authority.This week the UK is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, offering a chance for businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses, and the wider economy.The theme for National Apprenticeship Week 2023 is ‘Skills for Life’ and, as such, this week the council will be encouraging and supporting potential and existing employees to build their careers.Roles occupied by apprentices range from social workers, teachers and site engineers to...

06 February, 2023

A YOUNG apprentice from Northampton is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week this week after winning a prestigious national award.Jake Newell, an Asbestos Analyst at multi award-winning, Northampton-based asbestos consultancy Acorn Analytical Services, is the winner of Safety and Health Practitioner’s Rising Star UK award, which recognises the brightest young health and safety professionals in the UK.Since joining Acorn Analytical Services in 2021, Jake has impressed everyone around him with his selfless dedication and commitment to his role. His presence has been described as a ‘a breath of fresh air through the industry’ as he takes every opportunity to develop his skills...

06 February, 2023

An apprenticeship scheme at West Northamptonshire Council is going from strength to strength with 80 active learners now employed by the authority.This week the UK is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week, offering a chance for businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses, and the wider economy.The theme for National Apprenticeship Week 2023 is ‘skills for life’; reflecting on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with future-ready skills.Cllr Fiona...

06 February, 2023

Around 160 seasonal jobs have been announced at Wicksteed Park as it reveals new attractions and begins an exciting period in its development.The jobs are available across all parts of the family venue, including rides, grounds, admissions, and customer service and all recruits will be given full training before the park officially opens fully for the season on Saturday April 1.Some of the new recruits will be working on the first of this year’s new additions – a fantastic new 25-metre high Ferris wheel.The wheel, named The Garden Wheel, will be one of the largest in the region and will offer...

06 February, 2023

Schools, high streets and main roads will benefit from improved crossings and junctions to support walking and cycling, reduce emissions and boost local economies, thanks to a £200 million fund announced today (6 February 2023).Active Travel England is today inviting local authorities in England to apply for funding to make improvements to enable people to choose active travel, which can help them save money and stay healthy. Schemes could include:creating more paths in rural areas developing safer routes for children to walk to school improved safety at junctions for people walking and cyclingFunding will also be used to support...

06 February, 2023

Hundreds of people showed up online and in person for the emotional launch of The Lewis Foundation’s charity single this World Cancer Day, with donations flooding in within hours of the event.Spearheaded by Northampton’s ‘Singing Solicitor’ Kevin Rogers, chair of regional law firm Wilson Browne Solicitors, and broadcaster John Griff, with the help of talented school pupils, NHS staff and local musicians and businesspeople, the moving rendition and music video of Snow Patrol’s Chasing Cars immediately captured hearts, with more than £1,600 raised in the first 24 hours.The video and live launch - which features Kevin’s daughter Bethany, Northampton School...

05 February, 2023

Business and Energy Secretary Grant Shapps has today given energy bosses a deadline of Tuesday to report back to him on what remedial action – such as providing compensation – they plan to take should they have wrongfully installed prepayment meters in the homes of vulnerable customers.It comes in the wake of British Gas admitting fault as a result of the Times investigation which showed even those with small children or medical conditions have not been shown forbearance, with reports of debt collectors breaking into homes to install the equipment.But these findings by The Times newspaper follow several reviews by...

05 February, 2023