Programme begins to rejuvenate city’s Cathedral Precinct

Work to enhance the Cathedral Precinct area of Wakefield is getting underway.

The overall plan would see the creation of a space for entertainment and festivals, new facades for buildings on Bread Street and opportunities for food and drink businesses to be developed over the next three years, if full funding is agreed.

The first stage of the work has begun with shops and businesses with front or rear-facing façades along Bread Street being offered grants to create new façades that would complement the Wakefield Cathedral conservation area.

Next stages of the plans are awaiting final confirmation of money from the Towns Fund. If monies are granted, the second phase would see vacant buildings at the end of Bread Street removed in 2024 to recreate the early 19th-century vista of the Cathedral.

The third phase will involve creation of the flexible multi-use entertainment area with seating and lighting. This is intended to become the city’s premier outdoor venue for hosting open-air events, festivals and other family entertainment.

Councillor Darren Byford, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “These plans will completely change the look and feel of Wakefield City Centre. The new building frontages with look amazing and will improve the look of our historic buildings.

“Once Government confirms the funding, we will be able to make a start in transforming the area.

“Putting the Cathedral Square and surrounding streets at the heart of the city centre will give us the space to bring entertainment and events to Wakefield, giving residents, visitors and businesses more reasons to be here in our city.”

Chair of Wakefield High Street Task Force, Cormac Hamilton, said: “It is very positive to see this imaginative project  is getting underway.

“It will bring people together, enhance our city centre and strengthen our offer as a great place for residents, businesses and visitors to experience and to enjoy.”