Dozens protest plans to sell “vital” Wellingborough town centre car park
Dozens of residents have staged a protest over plans to sell off one of Wellingborough’s key town centre car parks.
More than 50 people gathered at Jackson’s Lane car park over the weekend after North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) declared the site “surplus to requirements” and agreed to explore options to market it for sale.
Jackson’s Lane is the only free 24‑hour car park in the town centre. Protesters say it’s a lifeline for older people, those with disabilities, nearby flats, shops and community groups – and fear any loss of spaces would hit the town hard, especially as more homes and cars are added to the area.
Residents: “We’ve fought this before”
People who have lived in Wellingborough for decades joined the demonstration, saying they previously campaigned to save the car park and can’t believe they are back in the same position so soon.
They argue that taking away parking would make it harder for people to get into town, damage local businesses and deter visitors.
One long‑term resident described Jackson’s Lane as “very much needed”, adding that many people simply can’t manage the walk from other car parks, particularly if they are elderly or have mobility issues.
Council says some parking will stay
North Northamptonshire Council says declaring the land “surplus” is only the first step and allows them to look at future options for the whole 6.2‑acre site, which also includes vacant land off Derek Hooton Way.
The council says that part of the site has long suffered from antisocial behaviour and trespass and needs regeneration. It insists the intention is to keep some public parking on the site, not remove it entirely.
Council leader Cllr Martin Griffiths has said the land will be included in a new town centre masterplan and that any development considered under his leadership will need to retain parking and support wider plans to make Wellingborough “prosperous, vibrant, proud and welcoming again”.
Calls for clear answers and consultation
Town and unitary councillors have warned that local concern is growing and have called for the community to be fully involved in decisions about the site.
They want clear information on:
- How much parking would actually remain
- Which parts of the land could be sold
- How any changes would affect the town centre and local businesses
Some councillors argue that, if anything is to be sold, it should be limited to the Derek Hooton Way “wasteland” area rather than existing car parking.
Next steps
An extraordinary meeting of Wellingborough Town Council is due to take place on Tuesday 3 March, where councillors are expected to formally raise their opposition to the potential sale of Jackson’s Lane car park and push for greater public involvement.
Details and the full agenda for the meeting are available on Wellingborough Town Council’s website.