Teenager denies arson at Northampton retail park

The fire destroyed multiple businesses.

Emergency services at the scene of a suspected arson at Nene Valley Retail Park in Northampton, UK, which destroyed the Dunelm and Pets at Home stores.
Author: Shaunna BurnsPublished 9th Jul 2025

A teenage boy has pleaded not guilty to a charge of arson in relation to a fire which destroyed multiple businesses at a Northampton retail park.

The 15-year-old Northampton boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons because of his age, is charged with one count of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered following a fire which began in the Dunelm store at St James’ Retail Park on May 31.

He appeared before Wellingborough Magistrates’ Court yesterday, Tuesday, July 8, where he entered a not guilty plea and was given conditional bail.

A further case management hearing will take place at the same court on September 2.

A trial date has yet to be set.

Two other Northampton boys, both aged 14, remain on conditional bail in relation to the incident.

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