CIVIC leaders of all political colours have been criticised in the past for destroying much of Northampton’s history in the name of redevelopment and progress.
But this is by no means a modern phenomenon.
Today’s elder generation will look back with fondness at architectural treasures which have been bulldozed in recent decades, such as The New Theatre, the Notre Dame High School, and the Emporium Arcade.
But the Victorians were no more sensitive to the town’s heritage either. Northampton once had a very important castle, built in 1084 and used as a seat of parliament.
It was already in ruins when the railway came to town, but developers brazenly levelled the land and built on top of it.
So it is great news that current excavations at the site have revealed some outstanding finds among the remains of the castle site.
And even better news is that these finds – plus others already in storage at the town’s Central Museum – could be brought together and put on display as part of a permanent exhibition at the new look railway station.
Unlike some towns, such as Milton Keynes, for example, Northampton is a town of character, built over many centuries ... an important medieval history that we should all be proud of.
It is only right that that history is put on show for us all to enjoy.