Car park closes suddenly with vehicles still inside

A car park in Northampton town centre has been closed suddenly with some vehicles still inside after crumbling concrete was found in the structure.

Mayorhold Car Park in Lady's Lane was built more than 50 years ago and was due to be demolished next year as part of the wider Greyfriars regeneration programme.

West Northamptonshire Council said it would take a decision on whether to reopen the car park following further structural surveys.

The authority has posted a notice on the facility giving contact details for people whose vehicles are in there.

John Slope, the Reform UK council's cabinet member for finance and resources, said: "The safety of residents and other car park users always comes first.

"The car park was built decades ago and, despite regular maintenance work to keep it operational, the building has been in decline for some time and is due for demolition next year."

He added that there was "ample parking elsewhere".

It comes after work has been completed on St John's Car Park, which was damaged in a crash in October 2024.

Work there started in February after the driver of a stolen Seat Leon crashed into a side wall during a police chase.

Do you have a story suggestion for Northamptonshire? Contact us below.

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.