Council Chairman shares her March update

10 March 2025

In this update, I wanted to highlight some of the events I’ve recently attended in towards building a better future for our communities.

During the February half term, I was thrilled to get up close with the Women's Rugby World Cup trophy, which was on display at the Grosvenor Centre in the run-up to the big event later this year, which will see a number of matches played at Franklin's Gardens. This was a great chance to whet the public's appetite ahead of the tournament, and it was wonderful to meet so many people who are excited about the opportunities it brings us here in West Northants.

On 27 February I attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the new mortuary in Booth Meadow, sited next to the Riverside Retail Park and Billing Aquadrome. Scheduled to open in autumn this year, it will deliver a high standard of care and compassion when people are going through one of the most challenging times in their lives.

On Saturday 8 March it was wonderful to join our local community to celebrate International Women’s Day with a mix of live music and dance, yoga and exercise workshops.  It was an honour to present the 13th Annual Inspirational Women Awards and meet some truly inspirational women. Thank you to everyone who shares the vision, cares about women's equality, and takes action to make the world a better place for women everywhere.

The following day the mood was a little more sombre as I took part in the national Covid 19 Day of Reflection. I reflected, with my colleagues at work, the community resilience shown across West Northamptonshire and beyond during the acute phases of the Covid pandemic. 

On Monday 10 March I was joined by the Lord Lieutenant for the flag raising event for Commonwealth Day at the Guildhall. This year's theme, to celebrate the 56 member nations, is 'Together We Thrive’ and I’d like to highlight the wealth of events being held around the country which celebrate the diversity and unity of the Commonwealth.

I also wanted to mention that nominations are open for the Rose of Northamptonshire Awards. These awards are a way of shining a spotlight on some of the wonderful charities, individuals and voluntary groups that Northamptonshire Community Foundation have funded across the county. Don’t delay, as nominations will close 22 April 2025. Please visit the Northamptonshire Community Foundation website for further details.

As we move forward, I encourage us all to keep in mind the diverse needs and perspectives of our community. Through understanding and inclusivity, we can ensure that West Northants is a great place to work, visit and THRIVE.

Thank you for taking the time to read my January update. Please remember you can find out more about the Chairman's role, my chosen charities for this year, and information about how to invite me to your function or event on the Chairman's page

Cllr Jo Gilford
Chairman of the Council