Northampton plays a vital role as a major centre serving the town and its wider catchment area. During the Middle Ages, Northampton grew in significance with the establishment of Northampton Castle, which regularly hosted Parliament.
The creation of the Grand Union Canal and arrival of the railway in 1830 saw Northampton become a centre for footwear and leather manufacture. The town centre reflects this in its mix of modern and historic buildings and the varied uses that they host. Retailing is the predominant land use within Northampton’s town centre, alongside other significant uses, including; cultural, entertainment and leisure. Its location on the River Nene underpins other industries, such as brewing – where it is the home of Carlsberg in the UK.
With town centres across the country going through unprecedented levels of change, Northampton Borough Council – along with its partners at Northampton Forward – have decided to act in addressing the challenges facing the town.
https://www.northampton.gov.uk/info/592/regeneration/2542/northampton-town-centre-masterplan