Northamptonshire County Mortuary shortlisted for national construction awards

20 July 2026

West Northamptonshire Council is delighted to share that the new County Mortuary has been named a finalist in two categories at the National Building and Construction Awards 2026.

The facility has been shortlisted for both the Community Engagement and Project of the Year up to £10 million awards, earning national recognition for a landmark development that is already transforming services across the county.

Achieving finalist status in two categories is a significant endorsement of the project’s success, recognising both the quality of the development and the collaborative approach taken throughout its delivery.

Opened earlier this year at Riverside Business Park in Northampton, the state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility brings services together in one location and has been designed to provide a modern, compassionate, and dignified environment for bereaved families.

The project was delivered by West Northamptonshire Council in partnership with University Hospitals of Northamptonshire NHS Group, Northamptonshire Coroner's Service, Northamptonshire Police, funeral directors, and other key stakeholders. 

A key focus throughout the project was ensuring the facility met the needs of the people and communities it serves. Extensive engagement was carried out during the design process, involving faith groups, healthcare partners, specialists, funeral directors, police representatives, and local stakeholders, helping shape a facility that responds to a wide range of needs and expectations.

The Community Engagement nomination recognises this collaborative approach, while the Project of the Year shortlist highlights the quality of the building and its positive impact on service delivery across Northamptonshire. Together the nominations reflect a project that has successfully combined technical excellence with meaningful community involvement.

Councillor Andrew Last, Cabinet Member for Corporate and Regulatory Services at West Northamptonshire Council, said: "From the outset, this project has been shaped by partnership working and engagement with the people and organisations who use and support the service.

“The result is a high-quality facility that provides a respectful and supportive environment for families while meeting the needs of our communities for many years to come.

"To receive national recognition through shortlisting for not one but two awards is a tremendous achievement. It reflects the dedication, expertise and commitment of everyone involved in delivering this important facility and we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved."

The development also incorporated environmental considerations and energy efficient features as part of its design, while creating welcoming spaces intended to provide privacy, dignity and support for families during difficult times.

Double shortlisting places the County Mortuary among some of the most outstanding construction projects in the country and provides further recognition of the value the facility is bringing to local community and partner organisations.

Winners of the National Building and Construction Awards 2026 will be announced at a ceremony in London on 9 October.