Delapré Abbey is inviting businesses to become permanent supporters of its Stables restoration project through a new sponsorship scheme that will recognise organisations within the completed development.
The Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust has launched its Founder Panel Sponsorship initiative as part of its ongoing A Stable Future restoration project, which will transform the Abbey’s 19th-century Stables into a community facility offering therapeutic horticulture, education, vocational training, mental health support and event space.
Under the scheme, businesses can sponsor one of 10 corten steel recognition panels that will be incorporated into the restored pathways within the Stables complex. Sponsorship is available for whole, half or quarter panels, with the installations expected to remain in place for at least 10 years.
The Trust says the scheme offers organisations a lasting association with one of Northampton’s best-known heritage sites while helping fund the final stages of the restoration.
Richard Clinton, chief executive of Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust, said: “As we approach completion, we wanted to create an opportunity for businesses that share our commitment to the county’s future to become part of this story in a lasting and meaningful way.
“This is far more than traditional sponsorship. Founder supporters will become part of the building itself, recognised within a place that will serve the community for generations through wellbeing, education, skills, heritage and culture.
“We hope local organisations will see this as an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to Northamptonshire and its heritage while creating a lasting legacy.”
According to the Trust, Delapré Abbey welcomed more than 393,000 visits during 2025. It expects annual visitor numbers to increase once the Stables project is completed in 2027.
Founder sponsors will be recognised at the official opening of the restored Stables, included in launch publicity and acknowledged on the Abbey’s website and social media channels. Sponsors will also be invited to preview the completed development before it opens to the public.
The Trust said the restoration has generated £2.738 million of local economic activity during its first year of construction. The project has received support from a range of funders, including The National Lottery Heritage Fund, alongside other donors and partners.
Businesses interested in the sponsorship scheme can find further information or arrange a site visit through the Delapré Abbey website.
