Plans for a new secondary school and district centre at Hanwood Park have moved a step closer after outline planning permission was granted for the remaining phases of the Kettering development.
North Northamptonshire Council approved the outline application in January, alongside a Section 106 agreement, allowing up to 3,383 additional homes to be built, along with new schools, community facilities, employment space and extensive green infrastructure.
The decision provides the framework needed to deliver key facilities promised to residents, including the long-awaited Hanwood Park secondary school and new local shopping and leisure spaces at the heart of the neighbourhood.
Councillor Jan O’Hara said the approval marked an important moment for the area. She said the development would deliver high-quality homes, new education provision, open spaces and improved walking and cycling routes that connect communities across Kettering.
Rosie Wrighting, MP for Kettering, said securing the right infrastructure alongside new housing was vital. She said she had been working with government departments to support the delivery of the secondary school and would continue to push for projects that benefit local families.
With outline permission now in place, developers will submit a series of Reserved Matters applications, which will set out detailed designs for future phases. These will be brought forward in line with a long-term plan focused on connectivity, health and community life.
Education is a priority for the next stage. Work is ongoing with the Department for Education and education partners to progress the new secondary school, alongside additional primary school provision funded through developer contributions.
Health and leisure facilities are also moving ahead. Construction is already under way on David Lloyd Kettering, which is due to open in winter 2026 and will offer fitness, swimming and wellbeing facilities for local residents.
The outline approval also supports plans for a district centre and smaller local centres, creating space for shops, cafés and everyday services as the community continues to grow.
More than 3,000 people already live at Hanwood Park, many of whom moved from Kettering and nearby towns. A recent residents’ survey highlighted strong demand for schools, healthcare, local shops, green spaces and safe, walkable streets.
Chris Langdon, project director, said securing outline planning permission provided certainty for residents and partners. He said the focus remained on delivering the facilities people value most and building a place the community can be proud of.
Further updates on schools, shops and future consultations are expected to be shared with residents over the coming months.
