Work to begin on next phase of Abington Active Travel scheme

02 June 2026

Work will begin next month on the phase 2 of the Abington Active Travel Scheme, which will improve walking, wheeling and cycling routes in Northampton.

The scheme along Park Avenue South and Bridgewater Drive will start on Monday 8 June, with completion planned for Autumn 2026.

Led by West Northamptonshire Council and delivered in partnership with Kier, the project will create safer and more accessible routes for residents, commuters and visitors.

Once complete, it will make it easier for people to walk, cycle and use wheelchairs, with new and improved footways and segregated cycle lanes.

The scheme will also strengthen links between residential areas, schools, the town centre and local facilities, including better access to Abington Park.

The improvements are designed to encourage more people to choose active and sustainable ways of travelling, helping to reduce congestion and lower carbon emissions, while supporting healthier lifestyles.

The £4.7m project is funded through the Active Travel Fund, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and local transport grants. 

The Council consulted on phase 2 in 2023 and its implementation does not shape future active travel plans in the area. It should not be confused with phase 3 which the Council consulted on earlier this year and which is being redesigned as a result of feedback received.

Construction will be carried out in stages to help reduce disruption as much as possible, but some temporary traffic management, road closures and diversions will be needed. Access to homes and businesses will be maintained during the works.

West Northamptonshire Council and Kier are committed to keeping people updated throughout the works. Residents and businesses in the area will receive regular information, including letters, on-site signage and online information.

People can find the latest updates and more information about the scheme by visiting the major highways projects page or the dedicated project page. Anyone with questions can also contact the project team directly by email or phone.

Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “This next phase of the Abington Active Travel Scheme will make a positive difference to how people get around this part of Northampton.

“By creating safer and more accessible routes, we are making it easier for people to walk, wheel and cycle as part of their everyday journeys.

“We have listened to feedback from residents and will continue to work closely with the community while the work is carried out.”