Northampton Council Confirms No Christmas Market This Year

West Northamptonshire Council has confirmed that Northampton will not host a Christmas market this year, a decision that one councillor characterized as “disappointing.” The council stated that the extensive planning required made a “dedicated” Christmas market unfeasible in the town’s recently reopened Market Square. The Market Square welcomed back shoppers in September following an 18-month, £12m renovation project, which included the installation of new paving, bespoke fixed stalls, lighting, seating, and trees. A spokesperson for WNC commented: “Christmas markets require extensive planning, and this year our focus has been on the successful relaunch of the Market Square.” Koulla Jolley, West Northamptonshire Labour group’s shadow member for local economy, culture and leisure, expressed that it was “disappointing” and “frustrating” to learn of the absence of a Christmas market. She added: “A festive market pulling tourism in just makes clear financial sense.” WNC indicated that a variety of “festive activities” for the Market Square are expected to be announced shortly.