Ref: PR1904
Date: 02/09/08

The changing face of Wakefield city centre is continuing with diggers moving in to transform the iconic Bull Ring area.

Eight weeks into the multi-million pound refurbishment work, the existing floor has been excavated in preparation for work on the impressive new fountains that form part of phase one of the works - worth around £2.5m.

Hoardings have now gone up around the central Bull Ring area, but the improvement works also focus on Westmorland Street and The Springs where new road junctions and improved pedestrian access will be created.

The current refurbishment works are part of a three-stage, £7m plan to regenerate the wider area around the Bull Ring, Teall Street, Westmorland Street and The Springs.

Cllr Denise Jeffery, Wakefield Council's deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, said: "This is an exciting time for Wakefield and the Bull Ring will create a focal point for the city and be a place for everyone to enjoy.

"It marks another major step in the regeneration of Wakefield and the continued transformation and improvement of the city."

Joanne Roney, chief executive of Wakefield Council, said: "Important progress is being made and people can begin to see a real change in their city. We are creating a place where people of all ages can meet, shop and socialise and feel part of the district."

The refurbishment work includes proposals to relocate the Queen Victoria statue to Castrop Rauxel Square in the city centre's civic quarter. This decision has followed wide consultation and is supported by Wakefield Civic Society and is currently awaiting planning approval.

Kevin Trickett, president of Wakefield Civic Society, said: "We support the proposed move of this historically significant statue to Castrop Rauxel Square which is at the heart of the civic quarter and will therefore provide a suitably majestic environment."

The scheme is being led by Wakefield Council's Urban Centre Management team and being built by lead contractors Jackson's. It will vastly improve pedestrian links between Trinity Walk, the new market hall, the bus station and the existing shopping within the city centre, supporting local businesses.

Phase one of works is funded through a combination of Council resources, Yorkshire Forward funding and a contribution from the developers of the Trinity Walk development.

Ends.

Photograph: Cllr Denise Jeffery, deputy leader of Wakefield Council, with contractors, on the site of the Bull Ring, in Wakefield, which is being refurbished