Events, leisure and dining space poised to open in city centre
Wakefield Exchange (WX), a new space hosting events, street food, studios and more, is ready to launch this week.
The building is set to open to the public on Friday 21 February for the Rhubarb Festival weekend, with a market, live music, activities and more.
Councillor Hannah Appleyard, cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport, said: “We’re really excited that WX is opening to the public this weekend and I’m urging everyone to go check it out.
“WX is right in the heart of our city, right next to the bus station and just minutes’ walk from the city’s rail stations.
“Not only will it provide an exciting programme of regular events and activities showcasing local talent and beyond, but it also has spaces for digital and creative businesses.
“It will play an important part in the regeneration of the city centre, attracting visitors and providing exciting opportunities for local people of all ages.”
Wakefield Council has now unveiled a programme of regular events and activities taking place at WX.
There will be acoustic music on Thursday and live music on Friday evenings, creative sector networking opportunities throughout the year and adult evening creative classes led by regional artists.
As well as creating jobs in the food and drink sector, there will be spaces on offer to small and medium-sized digital and creative businesses.
Tenants, local residents and the wider economy will benefit from a programme of skills development, training and business support opportunities.
Cllr Michael Graham, cabinet member for regeneration and economic growth, added: “It’s fantastic news for the city centre that WX is opening this weekend.
“This exciting new venue is creating jobs, opportunities for local businesses and more leisure options for local people and visitors to enjoy.
“It will give more reasons for residents, visitors and businesses to come into our city centre and create a busy and thriving high street.
“This will of course benefit the many fantastic businesses we already have and creates an even better city for future generations.”
Open seven days a week, the building, which is a transformed former market hall, will be home to five street food vendors and a bar.
It will allow visitors to enjoy a casual dining experience throughout the day and into the evening.
Wakefield Exchange has been funded by The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, through the Cultural Development Fund, which is administered by Arts Council England, and by Wakefield Council.
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