A city centre where Wakefield is alive with activity, surrounded by green space and full of events all year round. That’s the vision for Cathedral Square, Wakefield Council’s plans to turn the city centre into a modern hub. If it happens it could be a winner for residents, businesses and visitors.
What’s coming for Cathedral Square?
The Council have plans which include a bigger, greener public square in the heart of Wakefield and they’re on target for a decision by December 2024. If approved two older commercial buildings on Bread Street will be demolished to open up the area for this new city centre space. From family parties to festivals this new square will be a flexible space for everyone to enjoy.
Here’s what’s in it:
- A family friendly north section with colourful planting and interactive play areas for kids and stonewall seating to relax.
- A flexible southern space for events with an open paved area and greenery that’s sustainable and drainage friendly.
The project will create around 1,450 square metres of new public space, connecting historic streets and blending with the Cathedral Conservation Area which celebrates places of historical and cultural significance in Wakefield.
Why Wakefield Council is investing in this
Cllr Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council, sees this as part of a bigger picture. For her it’s about creating a city we can be proud of—a place where future generations will want to stay and flourish. “This is about looking forward, growing our local economy and building a place where people and businesses want to be,” she says.
And Cllr Michael Graham, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, added that the Council have based these plans on what people have told them they want.
“The high street and shopping habits have changed and people want places to meet and connect. This space will give us room to host more events and enhance the ones people already love,”
he says.
Bringing new life to the city centre
Wakefield’s masterplan is about more than just Cathedral Square; the Council are looking to a long term goal of turning the city centre into a vibrant cultural quarter. They’re hoping to get a Strategic Regeneration Partner on board to deliver this vision over the next few years. This project is one of several to bring new life to the high street.
And it’s already got serious backing—the UK government’s Town Deal programme has awarded Wakefield Council £24.1 million to help fund these ambitious plans.
What’s next?
With a decision on the planning application expected by the end of 2024, the Council plans to kick off demolition by summer 2025, followed by construction lasting most of 2026. So if all goes according to plan, locals could see a fresh, modern Cathedral Square ready for visitors in just a few years.
If you’re curious to see what the future of Wakefield looks like or want to stay updated, you can follow the Council’s progress at www.wakefield.gov.uk/regeneration.
