Working with West Northamptonshire Council, Studio Egret West has crafted the framework to transform the depot into a vibrant new neighbourhood. This exciting regeneration scheme, now approved by Cabinet, will enable the development of more than 70 much-needed, quality family homes.
The 4.5-acre site, built in the early 1900s, was home to Northampton’s tram and bus depot until its closure in 2013. The site was acquired by the council in November 2023. Its redevelopment presents several challenges, including asbestos and ground contamination, flooding risk, and structural deterioration. Additionally, any development must retain the Grade II listed Transport Office, built in the 1930s. Our illustrative proposals re-use this building as a community hub and co-work space. The front and rear facades and roof structure of the tram depot will also be retained with new “tram terrace” homes carefully inserted within. A new public plaza will celebrate the retained front elevation of the historic depot. A “social street”, defined by a linear climate resilient, green space will connect the homes to wetland gardens that open up vistas towards the adjacent Sharman Road Lake.
