North Northamptonshire Council reach finals of MJ Awards 2025
27 March 2025
North Northamptonshire Council has reached the final of the nationally recognised MJ Achievement Awards 2025, with three nominations across key categories.
- Irchester Field School – Finalist for the Innovation in Public Private Partnerships Award
- Hi-Street initiative – Finalist for the Community Engagement Award
- NNC’s Project Manager for Adults, Health Partnerships, and Housing – Finalist for the Rising Star Award
Everyone involved should be incredibly proud to be recognised as finalists in these prestigious awards. The three nominations reflect the hard work, dedication, innovation and passion of our teams in delivering impactful initiatives that benefit our communities. From supporting local businesses and revitalising town centres to enhancing heritage education through important partnerships and developing talent within the Council.Adele Wylie, Chief Executive of North Northamptonshire Council.
The MJ Awards attract hundreds of entries from local councils across the UK. Winning would be a true testament to the efforts of staff, volunteers, and partners - fingers crossed for a successful outcome!
Innovation in Public Private Partnerships Award
The Irchester Field School, a partnership between the Council’s Chester House Estate, Northamptonshire’s Archaeological Resource Centre (ARC) and the University of Leicester, has been recognised for its innovative public-private partnership.
Every June and July, archaeologists from the University of Leicester excavate within the suburbs of the Roman town, in partnership with volunteers and staff from The Chester House Estate and ARC.
This initiative combines academic expertise and council facilities to offer immersive archaeological experiences for students, volunteers, and the wider community. Through this partnership, the programme has expanded access to heritage education, providing school visits and live excavation opportunities.
Over the past four years, it has provided opportunities for over 120 local volunteers, engaged 3,300 schoolchildren in hands-on learning, and facilitated significant community events such as the Chester House Estate Roman Festival.
This nationally recognised project attracts participants from across the globe while providing an exceptional range of opportunities for local communities to connect with North Northamptonshire’s archaeological heritage. The partnership will ensure the continued growth of these programmes through innovation and enterprise.
Community Engagement Award
NNC’s Hi Street initiative has been shortlisted for the Community Engagement Award, recognising its innovative approach to revitalising town centres across North Northamptonshire and strengthening the connection between local businesses and the community.
At the heart of the campaign is a commitment to encouraging residents to shop local, fostering a sense of community pride and economic resilience. Through engaging campaigns, targeted advertising, and participation in local events, Hi Street has placed small businesses in the spotlight - boosting visibility, driving footfall, and strengthening engagement between small businesses and their customers. The initiative continues to evolve, showcasing the power of collaboration in reinvigorating local high streets.
Complementing this work is the Retail Support Programme, which has provided hands-on assistance to small businesses through mentoring, workshops, and grant funding. By tailoring support to business needs, the programme has helped ensure North Northamptonshire’s independent retailers have the tools and confidence to thrive.
Rising Star Award
The finalist in the Rising Star category has demonstrated exceptional career progression within local government, beginning as an apprentice and steadily advancing to a leadership role. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and ability to go the extra mile have been evident in every project they have undertaken. From leading transformative initiatives in adult social care to playing a key role in developing innovative housing strategies, their impact has been felt across the organisation.
Their willingness to collaborate across departments, engage with the public, and drive positive change showcases their potential to succeed and continue making a meaningful difference at North Northamptonshire Council, making them a deserving finalist for this prestigious award.
The winners of the MJ Achievement Awards 2025 will be announced at an award ceremony in London on Friday 20 June.