New public outdoor space planned as part of multi-million pound regeneration

Two buildings in Wakefield city centre look set for demolition as Wakefield Council lodges plans to turn Cathedral Square into a “social and cultural hub.”

If approved, the project will see a new, greener and larger outdoor public space created.

It will support new and established events, as well as provide an attractive space for families and friends to meet in the city centre.

Plans include knocking down two commercial buildings either side of Bread Street which will open-up the new square.

Bread Street will also be resurfaced and this will create 15,600 sq ft of new usable space.

If approved, the square will be divided into two sections. The northern section will feature colourful planting with interactive play features for children to explore, surrounded by a stone wall with benches.

Designs for the southern section include an open paved area providing a flexible space for events, along with complementary sustainable urban drainage planting and seating.

Councillor Denise Jeffery, leader of Wakefield Council, said: “We’re on the cusp of seeing significant change that will start the transformation of our city centre into a thriving and culturally vibrant place.

“Lots of hard work has been happening behind-the-scenes to bring projects like Cathedral Square to life. We want to attract more people and new business into the city, to boost our local economy and support the high street.

“This is all about looking forward and investing in our city now, so future generations can be proud to call the Wakefield district home.”

Cllr Michael Graham, cabinet member for regeneration and economic growth, added: “We’ve listened to people. We’ve looked at what’s happening with shopping habits and the changing face of high streets.

“It’s clear there is a need for connection and community, and opportunities for people to come together in greener spaces.

“So, we’ve taken people’s feedback on board and created plans for a place where friends and family can meet up, sit and have a chat and where there’ll be areas for children to play in.

“We want this to be the heart of our city centre. It will be surrounded by greenery, and we hope will feel like a calm, relaxing space for people while shopping, working, visiting, or living in Wakefield.

“And it will give us the space to bring more entertainment and events to the city. As well as making the events people already enjoy even bigger and better.”

A planning decision is expected to be made by December 2024. If approved, demolition of the Bread Street buildings will start in summer 2025 and construction of the public space will begin in late 2025 through most of 2026.

This is one of several projects in the Wakefield masterplan that together aim to make the city centre a thriving and culturally vibrant location.

Wakefield Council is currently seeking a Strategic Regeneration Partner to help it deliver the masterplan.

The project is being funded by the Government’s Town Deal programme, after Wakefield Council secured £24.1m worth of funding.