Council leader calls for Corby new towns proposal
Leader Martin Griffiths has called on the Secretary of State to consider Corby as an addition to the government's New Towns programme
The leader of North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) has called on the Secretary of State to consider adding Corby to the government’s New Towns programme, in a bid to accelerate housing delivery and attract further investment to the area.
The New Towns taskforce has been charged with crafting a list of places where government can give targeted support to deliver “the next generation of new towns”. Only sites which have the potential to deliver a minimum of 10,000 homes have been considered, with extensions to existing towns or cities allowed under the criteria.
In September, 12 areas were recommended by the group to take forward under the town-building programme, including a renewed town in Milton Keynes, a new settlement in Tempsford, Central Bedfordshire, an urban development in South Bank in a suburb of Leeds, and many more. No sites in Northamptonshire made the shortlist.
NNC leader Martin Griffiths wrote to Steve Reed, the Secretary of State for Housing, in November to urge him to consider adding Corby to the list of new towns, with over 10,000 homes either being built or planned around the town in the Local Plan, including a new settlement at Tresham.
Cllr Griffiths said: “Corby has a proud history as a former New Town and continues to be one of the fastest-growing areas in the country. We have a strong track record of delivering new homes, jobs, and regeneration, and we believe Corby is ideally placed to play a leading role in the Government’s ambitions for housing growth and sustainable communities.
“With more than 10,000 homes currently being built or planned, alongside major inward investment such as Nike establishing its UK base here, Corby offers a unique opportunity to accelerate housing delivery and attract further investment.
“Inclusion in the New Towns programme would provide the framework to deliver high-quality homes, essential infrastructure, and green spaces, while supporting economic growth and creating long-term opportunities for local people.
“We are committed to working with Government to ensure Corby continues to thrive and contribute to the success of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor.”
The Labour governenment has pledged that it will start the construction of three new towns across the country before the next general election. None of the suggested sites’ places on the programme are set in stone, and they must each go through due diligence by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government and Homes England before any commitments are made.
The Leader of Corby Town Council, Cllr Simon Rielly, has said in response to Cllr Griffiths’ New Towns programme request: “We are aware that North Northamptonshire Council Leader Cllr Martin Griffiths has written to the Secretary of State for Housing, asking that Corby be considered as a potential New Town.
“This is a significant proposal with far-reaching implications for our area, and the Town Council believes it is essential that it is examined openly, transparently and with full community involvement.
“In principle, we welcome opportunities that could bring well-planned investment, high-quality jobs, and genuinely affordable homes for residents. However, any proposal must be founded on clear commitments to infrastructure first, meaningful public consultation, and a long-term, sustainable vision for Corby’s future.
“Road infrastructure must be prioritised from the very outset. For Corby to continue functioning effectively and safely as it grows, major highways improvements and strengthened transport links must form part of the first phase of any New Town approach is not left until later stages.
“Growth must enhance, not undermine, what makes Corby a strong and proud community. This includes protecting vital services, supporting a clean and safe town centre, and ensuring that development respects our environment and existing neighbourhoods.
“At this stage, we have not been presented with detailed proposals. The Town Council will therefore consider any formal bid on its merits once further information is available.
“We will continue to work constructively with North Northamptonshire Council, government partners, and most importantly our residents to secure the best possible outcome for Corby.”
Corby and East Northants MP Lee Barron has been contacted for comment.