A disused railway line partly within the Northampton Enterprise Zone has been acquired by West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (WNDC).
The redundant track runs from the site of a planned University of Northampton Campus to the Brackmills Industrial Estate.
Now the route has been safeguarded, it could be used as a walking and cycle path in future, while providing a habitat for local wildlife. WNDC has purchased the 3km route from Network Rail for £1.5m, which will be reinvested in the British railway network.
Peter Mawson, WNDC’s Chief Executive, said: “Alongside headline regeneration projects like the University Campus, it is important that we support grassroots community facilities. The disused railway line has the potential to be a great addition to the local transport network, helping to make Northampton a truly walkable town.”
The former railway line encompasses over 20 acres of land, stretching from the level crossing at London Road to near Salthouse Road in the Brackmills Industrial Estate. WNDC is working with Northamptonshire County Council to consider how and when the route could be converted into a walking and cycle path.
Cllr Michael Clarke, Northamptonshire County Council cabinet member for transport, highways and environment, said: “This is great news. We now need to work with our partners to see how this disused railway line can be used best to bring maximum benefits to the community.
"We’re always exploring new ways of introducing more sustainable transport routes, which have many advantages including helping to reduce congestion and pollution as well as associated health benefits.”
