The ambitious plan to bring a brand-new, purpose-built hotel to the heart of Wakefield has moved forward significantly. The Council is now inviting expressions of interest from hotel developers and operators for the prime location of the old Westgate train station.
Cllr Michael Graham, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth
A New Chapter for Westgate
Wakefield Council’s vision for a state-of-the-art hotel in the city centre has progressed to a critical phase. In 2023, the Council acquired the site of the former Westgate train station, setting the stage for this transformative project.
Since then, a series of preliminary works, including detailed ground surveys, have been conducted to ensure the land is primed for development.
Invitation to Developers
With the groundwork complete, the project has reached a significant milestone. The Council has officially opened the site to the market, inviting hotel developers and operators to submit their initial expressions of interest. This marks the first step in a structured procurement process, which begins with a selection questionnaire.
Cllr Michael Graham, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, expressed his enthusiasm:
“I’m pleased to see this next phase of this project get underway. This is an excellent location for a brand-new hotel due to its convenient railway links and being close to some of the city’s most valuable cultural assets. I’m looking forward to seeing what proposals are put forward.”
Selection Process
The Council will carefully review submissions, shortlisting companies whose proposals promise the greatest benefits for the city’s residents, workers, and visitors. Although there has already been significant interest from developers eager to invest in Wakefield, the Council insists on a formal procurement process to ensure fairness and transparency.
Future Prospects
The aim is to confirm and appoint a developer to move the project into the construction phase by January 2025. This hotel development is a key component of the broader Wakefield masterplan, which seeks to rejuvenate the city centre, making it a vibrant hub of cultural and economic activity.
For more details and updates, interested parties are directed to the Old Westgate Station Hotel Development Wakefield webpage.
