We asked, you said, we did

North Northamptonshire Council undertook engagement to understand how residents use play areas, what improvements should be prioritised and how future investment should be directed.

There were 596 responses.

You can view the strength of agreement or disagreement to a set of statements via this question responses document.

We also asked if there was anything else respondents wished to be considered. The 3 main themes of responses for this question were:

1. Maintenance and renewal of existing play areas should be prioritised
2. Inclusive design should be incorporated within play areas
3. Safety, cleanliness and regular inspections should all be prioritised

All feedback will be considered when creating the final draft Play Area Strategy. The engagement demonstrates strong support for accessible, inclusive and well maintained play facilities, with investment priorities focussed on improving existing sites, maintaining safety standards and delivering facilities that meet the needs of local communities.

In accordance with Regulation 16 of the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012 (as amended) the council publicised the Rothwell Neighbourhood Plan proposal and invited representations on whether, or not, the Plan proposal meets the basic conditions and other matters that an independent examiner is required to consider.

27 representations were received.

Representations received will be considered by an independent examiner who will examine the Neighbourhood Plan against the basic conditions. You can view full updates on the Neighbourhood Plan and its progress via the Neighbourhood Plans webpage.

Following the introduction of Sections 98 and 99 of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023 on 25 March 2026 we undertook a targeted consultation on an addendum to the Isham Neighbourhood Plan Basic Conditions Statement addressing these new requirements.

2 representations were received. The representations can be viewed on the Neighbourhood Plans webpage.

The representations were considered by the examiner for the Isham Neighbourhood Development Plan. You can view full updates on the Neighbourhood Plan and its progress via the Neighbourhood Plans webpage.

The Integrated Sustainability Appraisal (ISA) will inform the developing Local Transport Plan and ensure that sustainability issues are addressed in a way which is appropriate to the purpose of the plan and in a way which takes account of local conditions. The first stage in preparing an ISA is to produce a Scoping Report. We asked for feedback on the Scoping Report including the Sustainability Framework which outlines sustainability issues identified and objectives to inform the development of the LTP.

50 individuals completed the on-line consultation.

In response to the question about whether there were any categories the scoping report failed to address comments included that in the health category no mention is made of autism, ADHD and neuro-divergence, and more consideration is needed on issues such as cumulative impacts, particularly on deprived communities; digital exclusion; and access to services.

Respondents tended to agree that the level of priority given to climate change, air quality, biodiversity, habitats, water and soil, and that cultural heritage and the historic built environment is appropriate.

In response to the question of whether we had given the appropriate level of priority to the potential problems identified from the key issues respondents generally accepted that we had to strike a balance and, with the possible exception of future air quality the balance is about right.

Respondents tended to agree that the objectives identified in the Sustainability Framework adequately address the key issues and respond realistically to the evidence set out in the baseline data.

In response to the question about whether we had missed any relevant objectives respondents felt that whilst the Sustainability Framework is strong, there are a small number of additional objectives that would help address key issues more explicitly, particularly in relation to equalities and lived experience.

The Sustainability Framework within the ISA is being updated to address the issues raised by the respondents. As the policies are developed for the emerging Local Transport Plan (LTP) they will be assessed against the contents of the Sustainability Framework to ensure that they are compatible with the principles identified in that document and address the sustainability objectives in an optimal manner.

We sought feedback from current and past learners, as well as anyone who may be interested in Adult Learning. We sought to understand needs and interest and how we can shape future courses to better support the community. 

304 responses were received. A few reoccurring themes from the feedback were the dissatisfaction on the removal of the 65 and over concession rate, and the lack of courses in certain areas such as Corby and Brackley. We also learned that the majority of learners prefer face to face courses and there was a few requests to include more weekend courses, rather than midweek.

Taking all the feedback into consideration the plan is to create a prospectus and to provide more information on our tutors. The feedback will help us to develop the prospectus which meets the needs of our communities.

We sought insight into the physical activity levels and needs of the community for mums to be and new mums in North Northants. This is to ascertain the need for more physical activity opportunities for pregnant and new mums and how we can reach more women.

We received 257 completed surveys. We received a wide range of feedback across all sections of the survey.

The feedback has been shared with partners (in accordance with our privacy notice), including our Family Hubs and local midwives, and has been used within an Active Mums funding bid application which is due to be submitted in August 2026. This application aims to support more women to be active during their pregnancy and after birth journey.

Feedback will also help to shape future social media campaigns for women later on in the year. e.g. Active Mums, baby friendly services and This Girl Can Sport England campaign.

We asked for views on the draft Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits SPA Guidance and Mitigation Strategy. This guidance has been produced following updated evidence and will replace previous adopted versions of the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits SPD and Mitigation Strategy.

The consultation generated a number of representations from statutory bodies, parish and town councils, developers and planning consultants, environmental organisations, and members of the public. Respondents broadly supported the objective of protecting the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits SPA but raised concerns about scope, clarity, legal interpretation, proportionality, and implementation.

Details of the main issues raised can be found in the 9 June 2026 Executive Report.

The 9 June 2026 Executive Report outlines how the responses have been considered and a revised version of the document was prepared for adoption. Particular changes made as a result of the consultation are:

• The addition of an expanded section setting out the statutory status of the document and the weight to be afforded to it in decision making.
• Guidance on transitional arrangements.
• A clearer explanation of the scope of the document. Clarifying that the purpose is to focus on the likely significant effects of development on SPA/Ramsar qualifying features under the Habitats Regulations and that it does not replace Local Plan policies, protected species legislation or wider biodiversity strategies, such as the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. It focuses on those impacts which have been identified as the key issues adversely affecting the SPA and seeks to consolidate guidance from Natural England.
• Additional guidance on designing SANGs as safe spaces accessible for all.
• Further clarification on when SAMMs payments will be required.

The Executive adopted the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Special Protection Area Guidance and Mitigation Strategy on 9 June 2026.

We invited young people (up to age 25) to share their experiences of smoking, vaping and other nicotine products. The survey explored patterns of use, reasons for starting or not starting, experiences of use, and what support young people might find helpful.

722 young people took part.

Use of nicotine: Most respondents had never used nicotine products, but around 1 in 5 reported current use, and around 1 in 3 had tried smoking or vaping. Vaping was the most common product.

Why young people start: The most common reasons were curiosity, stress or anxiety, and influence from friends. Flavours and family influence were also mentioned.

Experiences: Young people described a mixed picture - some use nicotine socially or to cope with stress or difficult emotions, while others feel unsure about their use or concerned about addiction.

Stopping and support: Some young people want to reduce or stop, mainly for health reasons, but others are not ready.

Barriers: Key concerns about accessing support included fear of judgement, worries about parents or carers finding out, and concerns about getting into trouble or confidentiality.

Preferences: Where support was acceptable, young people preferred informal, low-pressure options that feel accessible and confidential.

The survey findings have been analysed and used to develop a local evidence base on young people’s smoking and vaping behaviours, including drivers of use, barriers to stopping, and views on support.

The evidence is being used to inform the design of awareness sessions and resource development, with a particular focus on: - peer influence, curiosity and stress/anxiety as key drivers of use - ensuring approaches are non-judgemental and sensitive to concerns about confidentiality.

Results will be shared with relevant local partners to support a consistent understanding of young people’s experiences and inform ongoing discussions. This insight will continue to be used as part of the local evidence base to inform future planning and commissioning activity.

We asked parents and carers to share their experiences of support for their child’s early development and what matters most to families in the early years. This included views on early education, health checks, vaccinations and preparing for starting school.

Who responded

• 54 parents and carers completed the online survey
• 47 respondents answered all questions

What parents and carers told us - Key findings

View a summary of what we did/ will do in response to what you said here.

What will happen next

The results of the survey have been analysed by the Public Health team and shared with the Family Hubs team who lead on our Best Start in Life strategy with the following suggested recommendations:

This feedback will be used to:

• Improve awareness and uptake of childhood vaccinations and health visitor reviews
• Shape early years and school‑readiness support, particularly around key transition points
• Review how support is delivered to make sure it is accessible, timely and meets families’ needs

Parents’ and carers’ views will continue to inform how Best Start in Life support develops across the area.

Thank you to all parents and carers who shared their views. Your feedback is helping us improve how we support children and families through the Best Start in Life programme.

To receive proposals in respect of community governance arrangements for parish areas across North Northamptonshire.

We received 121 responses from various respondents including residents, parish/town councillors, parish clerks. The results have been collated and in accordance with legislation will be taken into consideration in formulating draft recommendations.

A report will be presented to Democracy and Standards Committee on 20 July setting out the draft recommendations. Once agreed the draft recommendations will be published and a further period of consultation will start. During this consultation process all those with an interest in the review will be able to submit further representations in respect of the draft recommendations. Those representations will be taken into consideration in formulating draft recommendations.

Update August 2026: View the 20 July 2026 Democracy and Standards Committee report and the Stage 2 Consultation which closes 4 October 2026.

As part of the leisure visioning work, the Council undertook extensive engagement with the local community to gather views on the value and future direction of leisure services across North Northamptonshire.

There were 1,358 responses. We are working with consultants to produce a full analysis of the feedback.

Your feedback will help shape future priorities and determine how leisure services should be structured and delivered to best meet community needs. Recommendations on the future management and operating model of leisure facilities will be developed and submitted to the Council Executive for a final decision later this summer.

The draft Empty Homes Strategy outlined North Northamptonshire Council’s proposed approach to identifying, managing and bringing long-term empty properties back into use. We sought feedback on need and support for the strategy, strategic priorities, proposed options, financial and resource considerations, community impact and suggestions for improving the strategy.

There were 87 responses, which were overall positive.

Full details on the consultation responses can be found in Appendix B to the Executive report for 12 May 2026.

Once the draft Strategy is approved it will be implemented as soon as is practicable and continue with the staged enforcement approach.

We sought feedback on a proposal to introduce a PSPO for Hillside, Little Harrowden to reduce crime and disorder in the area. The PSPO would authorise the installation of gates and prohibit certain activities within the area.

There were 38 responses. 63% respondents expressed agreement / 24% expressed disagreement and 13% were neutral or didn't answer, at the introduction of the PSPO.
 

The results will be incorporated into a report that will be put before Executive for decision-making.

We asked which local facilities you and your child use to stay active, how easy they are to use, and any perceived gaps in provision.

The survey (89 respondents) was part of a wider piece of engagement in Raunds & Stanwick about opportunities for children and young people to be active. In addition to this survey we completed face to face engagement with parents at local play groups (40), face to face engagement with young people (12), and utilised the results of a pupil survey across Stanwick, Windmill & St Peters primary schools (116) and pupils in secondary schools in East Northants South (508). The priority areas of focus are: more active play for 0-5s, supporting teen girls to be more active, increasing reporting of ASB, increased holiday provision, and better awareness of opportunities to be active locally.

We held a community meeting to review and discuss the results of the engagement work in early March and now have 4 task groups to take forwards actions to improve active play for 0-5s, teen girl sessions, improve reporting of anti social behaviour, and a marketing campaign to increase awareness of what's on locally for young people.

The Council sought feedback on the draft proposals for a balanced revenue budget for 2025/27 and the medium-term financial plan for the next three years. The budget consultation period commenced on 16 December 2025 and closed on 23 January 2026.

The budget proposals set out a detailed spending strategy for the authority for the financial year 2026/27 as well as outlining the medium-term financial plan for the next two years. The budget proposed a balance net revenue budget for 2026/27 at £431 million.

The main proposals were:

• To increase Council Tax by 4.99%, comprising a ‘core’ Council Tax increase of 2.99% covering all services and a further 2% for the adult social care precept, which is the maximum amount permitted. This would contribute an additional £10.9m per year and would represent a Band D level of Council Tax of £1,918.23 for 2026/2027, or the equivalent of £36.89 per week.
• Draft Capital Programme 2026-30.

However, respondents were invited to comment on any proposal within the Draft Budget.

Using the various means available to consultees, local people and organisations contributed to the North Northamptonshire Council Draft Budget 2026/27 consultation 242 times.

Council Tax increase proposals:

• 47.9% of respondents said they strongly agreed or tended to agree with the proposal to increase core council tax by 2.99%, whilst 42.4% said they strongly disagreed or tended to disagree with the proposal.
• 51.9% of respondents said they strongly agreed or tended to agree with the proposal to add an adult social care precept of 2% to council tax, whilst 35.3% said they strongly disagreed or tended to disagree with the proposal.

For more information about your feedback please see:

Appendix C – Draft Budget 2026-27 Consultation Analysis Report

On Tuesday 10 February 2026, the North Northamptonshire Council approved the 2026 to 2027 budget for North Northamptonshire.

The report before Council presented a balanced revenue budget for 2026/27 as well as outlining the medium-term financial plan for the next three years.

Council Tax: The Council approved an increase in council tax of 4.99%, which includes the 2% adult social care precept and is the maximum increase permitted by Government.

This increase will contribute about an additional £10.9m per year and represents a Band D level of Council Tax of £1,918.23 for 2026/2027, or the equivalent of £36.89 per week.

This Band D figure does not include the Council Tax for individual Town and Parish Councils or the Council Tax set for Fire and Police by the Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner.

Capital Programme: Final proposals for capital projects were also approved, over a four-year period from 2026-30 across a number of schemes.

Housing Revenue Account: This year’s Housing Revenue Account (HRA) sees a balanced position.

There will also be a rent increase of 4.8% for the next financial year, which accords with the Government’s rent setting policy for 2026/27. Any funding received by the HRA is retained within the HRA and will be used to support investment into the Council’s housing stock through improvements and maintenance.

For more information about the budget, please see:

Council papers for meeting held on 10 February 2026

The budget papers for 2026/27 were considered and approved by Full Council on 19 February 2026.

Council papers for Full Council held on 19 February 2026.

We sought feedback on schools term dates for the 2027-28 academic year.

We received 3 responses with some alternative suggestions.

The terms dates for 2027-28 academic year will proceed as suggested and can be found on the NNC website School term dates page.

We sought views and evidence on whether the PSPO for Laxton Close, Corby should be extended for a further 3 years.

There were 4 responses, which all agreed with the PSPO being extended for a further three years.

The decision on the extension of the PSPO will be taken by a future committee.

Update: The Laxton Close Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) has been approved for 2026 to 2029 and came into effect on 1 May 2026. View the PSPO here.

We sought the views of Hackney Carriage drivers and license holders, and the public, about proposed new fees and charges relating to hackney carriage and private hire driver licences, vehicle licences, and private hire operator licences. 

A total of 7 responses were submitted during the consultation period. In summary, the consultation responses were not in support of the proposed fee levels. This outcome was not unexpected given that some members of the licensed trade will be asked to pay an increased fee.

The full papers and analysis can be viewed via the Licensing and Appeals Committee papers dated 20 January 2026.

The Council’s Licensing and Appeals Committee considered the objections to the harmonised fees and charges proposals on 20 January 2026, and approved the increase.

The new fees will come into effect on 26 January 2026.

Currently, interims harmonised fees and charges apply to ensure parity and fairness for the licensed trade. The interim fees were set at the minimum fee currently charged by any of the four former authority areas and do not allow for full cost recovery.

A six‑week public consultation to gather feedback on 10 proposed changes to the Keyways Housing Allocations Scheme, aimed at keeping the scheme lawful, fair, and focused on households with the greatest housing need.

355 online responses were received, plus 16 consultation-related email contributions (from 37 emails received).

Overall sentiment (online): 57% agree/strongly agree, 19% disagree/strongly disagree, 24% neutral across all proposals. Email contributions (broad view): 25% in support, 44% not in support and 31% neutral.

The analysis shows a clear overall majority support (57%) for the proposed changes, providing evidence to support progression of the proposals. The proposed scheme will therefore be presented to the Council’s Executive at a future date for ratification before a go‑live date for implementation is agreed, if appropriate.

We sought feedback on a proposal to install CCTV in Corby at Oakley Road/ Burghley Drive corner and in the pedestrian/ cycle path tunnels on Oakley Road.

There were 25 responses, mostly supporting the installation of CCTV in the locations proposed and agreeing the CCTV would prevent and deter crime and make them feel safe in the area.

The proposal to install CCTV was well received. An application for planning permission for the CCTV has been submitted.