Northampton parks and blue badge parking remain free after public feedback
Council responds to consultation on car parking proposals
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has decided not to implement car parking charges for blue badge holders or for visitors to Northampton’s country parks, following further public feedback.
The decision allows free parking to continue at locations including Hunsbury Hill Country Park, West Hunsbury Country Park (Ladybridge), the Racecourse, Radlands Skate Park, and Bedford Road Picnic area.
Enforcement arrangements at the Council’s Daventry and Towcester car parks, which already offer free parking, will remain unchanged. Motorists are subject to fines if they overstay or flout restrictions.
This decision follows a second round of public consultation, where more than 660 people shared their views on parking proposals originally set out in the Council's 2026-27 budget.
Councillor Mark Arnull, Leader of West Northamptonshire Council, emphasised the importance of public feedback in shaping the proposals.
"Listening to our residents and businesses is a top priority for us, and this latest consultation provided a vital opportunity to incorporate community concerns into our plans," Arnull said.
WNC will, however, proceed with plans to revise charges at several other car park locations in Northampton.
These changes, affecting locations such as Albion Place, Campbell Square, and Upper Mounts, will start on 1st August 2026, with charges applying on weekends and bank holidays.
The full details of these parking changes will be published shortly on the WNC website car parking pages.