Views sought on plans to reduce impact of lorries and freight on local communities

05 November 2026

People are being invited to help shape how lorries and other heavy goods vehicles move through West Northamptonshire, as the Council launches a consultation on a new draft Freight Action Plan. 

The draft plan sets out how WNC intends to balance the economic benefits of freight and road and rail connectivity, with the need to minimise impacts on communities, the environment and the transport network.

The consultation runs from today (Thursday 5 November) until midnight on Thursday 17 December, giving people the opportunity to comment before the final plan is presented to Cabinet for approval in spring 2027.

West Northamptonshire sits at the heart of the UK's freight and logistics network, with major road and rail connections helping to support thousands of jobs, local businesses and national supply chains.

The proposed vision is to “shape West Northamptonshire's freight network so that goods move safely, efficiently and sustainably, supporting local communities, businesses and the environment now and in the future”.

The draft plan includes a five-year programme of 26 actions covering issues such as:

• Better network management and freight routing
• Reviewing weight restrictions and exploring new approaches to enforcement
• Developing plans for future HGV parking facilities
• Working more closely with the freight and logistics industry
• Supporting the transition to lower-emission freight vehicles
• Expanding freight data and monitoring
• Exploring innovative solutions including parcel lockers, mobility hubs and future delivery technologies

Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: "Freight is a fact of life in West Northamptonshire.

“It brings jobs, supports businesses and keeps goods moving, but we know it can also cause problems for people living near busy routes.

"We're not pretending there are easy answers, but we do want an honest conversation about how lorries and heavy goods vehicles should operate in the future.

“This plan looks at issues people regularly raise with us, such as HGV parking, routes through villages, road safety and reducing the impact on communities.

"Before we make any final decisions, we want to hear from residents, businesses, parish councils and the freight industry.

“If you've got a view, whether you support what's proposed or think we can do better, please take part in the consultation and tell us what you think."

People can find out more by reading the draft plan and supporting information, and by completing the online consultation survey.

A virtual drop-in session will also be held via Microsoft Teams on 24 November from 2pm to 3.30pm, where council officers will give a short presentation and answer questions. Anyone wishing to attend should email LocalTransportPlan@westnorthants.gov.uk to register for a joining link.