Northampton Forward is a public and private sector partnership which has created an identity for the town.
Northampton Forward
Formed in 2019 Northampton Forward is a public and private sector partnership established with two aims:
- co-ordinate and drive forward the regeneration and economic growth within Northampton
- establish and deliver the strategic vision for Northampton Town Centre
It is made up of key partners across the town who all share the same vision, including:
- West Northamptonshire Council
- South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership (SEMLEP)
- The University of Northampton
- Northamptonshire Police Fire and Crime Commissioner
- Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce
- Royal and Derngate
- Northampton Town Centre Business Improvement District
- Members of Parliament for Northampton South and South Northamptonshire
- Private Sector and Community representatives
Creating an identity for our Northampton
The Northampton place brand was crafted through a collaborative process that involved extensive consultation and research into the town’s rich history. In 2020, a total of 1,546 individuals participated in the survey, and multiple focus groups were conducted with businesses and individuals from the Arts, Culture and Heritage sector.
During this process, initial narrative themes emerged which resonated externally and internally such as ‘unique’ and ‘differentiating.’ Northampton’s culture, heritage and history of innovation stood out as a dominant narrative. Co-created language was tested with groups contributing to the development of the brand pillars and brand values.
From these collaborative efforts, the concept of ‘independent spirit’ was distilled. This term encapsulates the town’s history of non-conformism, reflecting its dynamic urban environment and the legacy of change-makers like Alan Moore and Slowthai.
