Friday, July 30 2010
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Press Releases

The most recent releases from Wakefield Council's Press Office.

(28/7/2010) Lottery puts big trust in the Warwick Estate
Over the next ten years at least £1 million of lottery good cause funding is to flow into the Warwick Estate in Knottingley, as the Big Lottery Fund (BIG) announces the first 50 areas across England to benefit from its Big Local Trust programme
(28/7/2010) Road closure for bridge repairs
A section of Wrenthorpe by-pass will be closed overnight on 30 July until 31 July
(28/7/2010) Green Flag Award announcement: Haw Park Wood and Anglers Country Park officially two of the best UK parks
With parks providing the perfect location for families during the school holidays, Haw Park Wood and Anglers Country Park near Walton and Wintersett have been recognised as two of the country’s best green spaces with two prestigious Green Flag Awards
(27/7/2010) Wakefield Council gets praised from children's services inspectors
Wakefield Council was praised today following an unannounced inspection of the Council’s children’s services carried out over two days last month
(27/7/2010) Council statement on Rugby League in the district
Wakefield Council has today issued the following statement on Rugby League in the district
(27/7/2010) New food hall makes it a trio of markets for city
The opening of Wakefield’s new food hall on Saturday, July 31 marks the completion of the city’s market development
(26/7/2010) Anti-social behaviour on the agenda
The Police, Wakefield and District Housing (WDH) and Wakefield Council have been putting anti-social behaviour at the top of the agenda this week
(26/7/2010) Council launches new visitor guide
A new Visitor Guide to promote the Wakefield district as a visitor destination throughout the UK has been launched by Wakefield Council and local attractions
(26/7/2010) The Hepworth Wakefield ‘swaps’ artwork with Yorkshire-based artists
On Wednesday 28 July Wakefield Artwalk, The Hepworth Wakefield will be swapping one of its most treasured works of art – Barbara Hepworth’s Mother and Child (1934) - for the work of five Wakefield-based artists
(26/7/2010) Love Food Hate Waste event
Wakefield Council will be supporting the launch of the Love Food Hate Waste campaign with a series of free events on Saturday July 31
(23/7/2010) Twice as nice for Playbuilder play areas
There will be double the fun for the district this month as two further Playbuilder-funded play areas launch in Featherstone and Wrenthorpe.
(23/7/2010) Wakefield Market Food Hall set to open its doors
Wakefield’s refurbished market food hall will officially open for business later this month and it promises to be a gourmet delight.
(22/7/2010) Pontefract Charter Market event
People are being invited to join in with exciting events taking place on Wednesday July 28 to celebrate the bestowing of the 1484 Royal Charter on Pontefract.
(22/7/2010) Alcohol exclusion zone could be extended
An order to clamp down on drunken behaviour and booze-filled crime could be extended in Pontefract.
(21/7/2010) Lift off to libraries for reading challenge
This summer, children are invited to be part of an exciting reading challenge in Wakefield libraries over the school summer holidays called Space Hop.
(19/7/2010) New library for Wakefield
A new city centre library is set to be created as part of the Council’s office in the Merchant Gate development
(19/7/2010) Backing Keep Britain Tidy campaign
Wakefield Council is getting behind Keep Britain Tidy’s campaign to clean up England’s streets and save the country more than £3/4 billion pounds a year
(16/7/2010) Wakefield gets share of Leeds city region funding deal for housing
The Leeds City Region Partnership has agreed a one year £110m funding deal to support the delivery of major housing and regeneration schemes across the city region.
(15/7/2010) Free activities at Lightwaves under starter’s orders ahead of Olympics
To celebrate the fact it is two years until the start of the 2012 London Olympics, Wakefield Council is offering free activities at Lightwaves Leisure Centre on July 24.
(14/7/2010) Grill-iant young chefs turn up the heat for competition
Three young food fans will get the chance to step up to the plate this month when the TAP (Three Area Project) into Change4Life Junior Masterchef Project comes to Fitzwilliam
(14/7/2010) Olympic mascot visits Hemsworth adiZone
Pupils from Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School met the Olympic mascot Wenlock at Hemsworth’s adiZone
(9/7/2010) All play in Wakefield for National Play Day
Free activities for children in Wakefield are being set up to celebrate National Play Day.
(8/7/2010) All in good taste as school meal take up above national average in the district
The number of children tucking into a healthy school meal in the district is again above the national average
(7/7/2010) Wakefield Together roadshow arrives in South Kirkby
Wakefield Together continues to hit the road in series of outdoor roadshows across the district and on Saturday July 10 arrives at Northfield Primary School, South Kirkby.
(7/7/2010) 130 year of a market hall in Castleford
Peek into the past at Castleford Market from 12 – 17 July when there will an exhibition of memorabilia from Castleford’s two market halls.
(6/7/2010) Consultation opens on new North Wakefield Gateway
A new public consultation on revised North Wakefield Gateway plans is being launched to invite views from local residents and the general public
(6/7/2010) Recruitment roadshow for the district's markets
A two week roadshow aimed at highlighting the work opportunities at markets across the Wakefield district launches next week (July 13).
(6/7/2010) Council reacts to BSF announcements
Wakefield Council has reacted to the announcement that the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme has come to a stop in Wakefield district.
(5/7/2010) Council acts to keep youngsters swimming this summer
Wakefield Council is launching a scheme so that children can swim for a pound during the summer holidays.
(5/7/2010) Plans move forward for Westfield Lane improvements in South Elmsall
The last house standing in Gordon Place at South Elmsall is to be demolished so plans can be made for the redevelopment of the Westfield Lane area of the town
(5/7/2010) New farmers' market for Pontefract
A new farmers and local produce market will be held in Pontefract for the first time next week
(2/7/2010) Wakey World Cup event
England might be out of the real thing but the district’s brightest young footballing stars will be shining on Sunday July 4 at the Wakey World Cup.
(30/6/2010) Take a trip down Lock Lane for play area fun
An exciting newly refurbished playground on Lock Lane, Altofts will be officially opened on 11 July.
(30/6/2010) School councils mine for facts on future
Almost 100 local pupils will get the chance to learn about important global issues this week when they take part in a school council conference.
(30/6/2010) Freestyle football star set for Wrenthorpe winners
Wakefield Council has teamed up with Nike to promote healthier and safer travel to school by running their very own walking World Cup tournament – with the finale featuring a freestyle football star.
(30/6/2010) Driving down carbon emissions
Wakefield Council has taken delivery of its first three low carbon vehicles in a bid to help minimise the environmental impact of Council’s vehicle fleet.
(29/6/2010) Wakefield Council prepares for funding reductions
Wakefield Council has had an immediate loss in funding of £7.5m in this current financial year following the Government’s Emergency Budget of June 22 which will have an impact both on jobs and services, the Council’s most senior councillors were told today.
(29/6/2010) South Elmsall Westfield Lane improvement area public engagement event
Residents and local business owners are being invited to a public engagement event on Wednesday July 14 at the Social Centre, Westfield Lane, South Elmsall from 1pm to 6pm.
(29/6/2010) Sweet feats at liquorice festival
Pontefract’s famous Liquorice Festival returns for its 15th year this summer, and it keeps getting sweeter with more amazing entertainment.
(28/6/2010) Featherstone regeneration public engagement event
Local residents and business owners in Featherstone are being invited by Wakefield Council to share their views and thoughts on the plans for regeneration of the area.
(23/6/2010) Stars take step closer to being set in stone
The Wakefield Stars scheme will take one step closer to shining if the next stage is approved by Wakefield Council’s Cabinet this July.
(23/6/2010) Take a bite of Bell’s book
Wakefield Council’s Liquorice Festival returns to Pontefract this summer, and local author and illustrator Richard Bell will be unveiling his latest booklet to help remedy any sweet excess with a range of walks.
(21/6/2010) Road improvements to get underway
Work will soon start on the resurfacing of some of the district’s major roads to protect them from the effects of rain and frost
(18/6/2010) Free swimming finishes in July due to Government cuts
Free swimming for under 16s and people over 60 is to come to an end in the Wakefield district following the Government’s announcement that its funding for the Swim 4 Free scheme will be scrapped by July.
(17/6/2010) Action day hailed a success
Wakefield Council teams and partner organisations held a successful action day in Normanton on June 11 as part of their work to keep the roads safe.
(16/6/2010) Castleford regeneration public engagement event
Local residents and business owners in Castleford are being invited to join the Council to share their views and thoughts on the plans for continued regeneration of the area.
(16/6/2010) 1,500th new UK citizen welcomed to Wakefield
Wakefield will welcome its 1,500th new UK citizen to the district this month with a special ceremony.
(15/6/2010) Kelly is top of the class
A dynamic and inspirational teacher in Ossett has been named as one of the best in North England
(14/6/2010) Wakefield's Annual Festival of Remembrance
Wakefield is honouring veterans, servicemen and women with a civic parade and service in June
(11/6/2010) Get bat-on the Trail
The popular Trans Pennine Trail celebrates its 21st anniversary this summer, and Wakefield Council will be joining in the festivities by hosting a local baton relay along the scenic route
(10/6/2010) Wakefield District Celebrates Refugee Week June 14-20 2010
Wakefield Together is supporting Refugee Week which starts on June 14 2010 when events will be taking place across Wakefield district
(9/6/2010) A midsummer Wilde scene
William Shakespeare famously claimed that “all the world’s a stage”, and Wakefield Council is taking heed of the playwright’s adage this summer with a series of outdoor theatre productions at Woolley Hall.
(8/6/2010) Wakefield Together on the road
Wakefield Together is hitting the roads across the district in a series of outdoor roadshows starting on June 17 at Castleford market.
(8/6/2010) Youngsters set to taste victory in World Cup Class competition
Youngsters will be hoping to get a taste of victory – and some world foods – when the World Cup Class competition kicks of this summer.
(8/6/2010) Pinhole Pontefract from a snappy shop
Local artist and photographer Bob Clayden will be bringing the shutters down on the shops in a different way this month when he turns a Pontefract shop into a camera for a Pontefract Library exhibition.
(8/6/2010) Mr White with a dagger in the library
Best-selling crime author Neil White will be investigating the scene at Horbury Library this month as he returns to his home town to promote his new book, Dead Silent.
(7/6/2010) Teamwork on Tall Ships
A group of 20 young people from the Wakefield district are to sample life in the cramped quarters of a Tall Ship sailing around the south coast of England
(7/6/2010) Have a "rocking" time at Carr Lodge Park
The newly refurbished play area in Horbury’s Carr Lodge Park will be officially opened on 12 June
(4/6/2010) Council encourages energy efficiency
Yorkshire-based Dyson Insulations has been appointed by Wakefield Council as the preferred installer for a new energy efficiency scheme providing discounted insulation for private householders in Wakefield District
(4/6/2010) Young trainers show professional carers the ropes
Wakefield Council’s Family Services social care professionals have been given training by a group of young people who have been themselves looked after by the local authority.
(3/6/2010) Oceans of fun at Wakefield Libraries
Parents, carers, babies and toddlers will be shore to have a fantastic holi-day at one of Bookstart’s special ‘At the Seaside’ events at Wakefield Libraries this June.
(1/6/2010) Wakefield Green Living Day event
A day out at Anglers Country Park will turn into a hot topic thanks to Wakefield Council’s Green Living Day in June
(1/6/2010) Exceptional maintenance roadworks making exceptional progress
The £8 million road improvement works at Colorado Way, Glasshoughton and Denby Dale Road, Wakefield are now over one third complete - and ahead of schedule
(1/6/2010) Fun and falconry at gala day
More than 80 young people will be taking part in a day of falconry, dance, martial arts and much more at a Gala Day held by Wakefield Council next week
(1/6/2010) Pease Pleases Pontefract
This weekend saw the ribbon being cut in Pontefract as the fun-filled new Pease Park play area received its grand opening
(28/5/2010) Sweet success with a liquorice twist for festival
There will be all sorts going on in Pontefract this summer when the famous Liquorice Festival returns
(25/5/2010) Renewable energy event
Wakefield Council has teamed up with the Energy Saving Trust to host an event about renewable energy next week
(24/5/2010) Proposals to bring council and community even closer
Wakefield Council’s Cabinet is considering a proposal that could reshape the way Council services are structured – giving citizens more say on how services are delivered and empowering people to take a more active role in improving their neighbourhoods.
(21/5/2010) TAP into new health project and Change4Life
A major new multi-million pound partnership project to help support people to lead healthier lifestyles is being launched.
(21/5/2010) Get your home ready for winter - apply for a council-funded insulation grant
Wakefield Council has launched the Wakefield Energy Savers grant again this year.
(21/5/2010) Council and charity team up for Bark ‘n’ Stride scheme
Building on from the paw-fect partnerships formed with Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and Guide Dogs for the Blind, Wakefield Council has now teamed up with Dogs for the Disabled to promote walking to school and safer travel.
(21/5/2010) Wakefield's new Mayor takes chains of office
Wakefield Council today (May 20) confirmed Cllr Tony Wallis as Mayor of the Wakefield District in the formal mayor-making ceremony at County Hall.
(21/5/2010) Wakefield Council shapes up for year ahead
The annual meeting of Wakefield Council today elected Cllr Peter Box as its Executive Leader of the Council, a post designed to last for four years following changes in national legislation.
(20/5/2010) Free talk and open evening at The Hepworth Wakefield
Free talk and open evening at The Hepworth Wakefield
(20/5/2010) Stay safe, stay out of the water
As the weather is hotting up Wakefield Council is warning people not to be tempted to cool off in ponds, lakes and flooded quarries.
(20/5/2010) Wakefield District Summer of Culture - right on your doorstep!
The Summer of Culture is a programme of activities, festival and events for the whole family taking place in the Wakefield district during May to September 2010.
(19/5/2010) Become a record breaker with National Family Week
Wakefield Council is taking part in National Family Week and hoping to make it a walk in the park - a piece of cake - or a home run – with its events during Summer half term.
(14/5/2010) Wakefield Together continues to make our streets safer
The Wakefield Together Partnership is working with community champions and using technology to drive down anti-social behaviour across Wakefield district
(13/5/2010) The right motor-way for the over 50s
Wakefield Council and Elite Driver Training have put their minds in gear to offer the over 50s driving guidance with new road refresher courses, known as ‘Refresher 50’
(13/5/2010) Could you find room to foster a child?
Wakefield Council is launching a new campaign to raise awareness of fostering and highlight the need for more foster families.
(13/5/2010) Green Keeper takes Pride in his work
Duncan Hird, Green Keeper at City of Wakefield Golf Course has scooped this year’s Citizen Award at Wakefield Council’s Pride Awards Ceremony, held on Friday 30 April
(12/5/2010) Your museum needs you to help choose most popular objects
Your museum service is asking for your help to choose the top three objects from the district’s museum collections.
(12/5/2010) Richard’s real life Robin read
Robin Hood could famously be found in the deep woodlands of Sherwood Forest, but local author and illustrator Richard Bell is bringing the heroic outlaw and his merry men back to their roots in Wakefield at the Tourist Information Centre (TIC) this Saturday
(12/5/2010) Pick the write winner
The old saying goes that you should never judge a book by its cover – but Wakefield Libraries are asking you to do just that, along with the contents and back of the book too.
(7/5/2010) Wakefield Council elections 2010 - results
Wakefield Council is shaping up for the future following the results of the 2010 local council elections announced today (Friday, May 7 2010).
(28/4/2010) Use your vote
Polling stations open on Thursday, 6 May for citizens in the Wakefield district to vote in the local Council and General elections.
(27/4/2010) Funding boost for Pontefract Castle
Wakefield Council has been awarded £270,000 by English Heritage to begin important conservation work on Pontefract Castle
(27/4/2010) Award winning tourist information centre
The Council’s Wakefield Tourist Information Centre (TIC) is celebrating after scooping two prestigious accolades at the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence 2010
(26/4/2010) Further traffic improvements at Colorado Way scheme
A range of improvements to help traffic flow and ease congestion at the Colorado Way exceptional maintenance scheme are being introduced.
(21/4/2010) Historical characters come to life to support walking to school
As legend would have it St George might normally have dragons on his mind most days, but when he’s in Wakefield it’s all about walking safely to school.
(21/4/2010) South Elmsall shop support
A new project to help rejuvenate the shops in South Elmsall begins this month, as Wakefield Council help fill an empty store on the high street.
(15/4/2010) Library review team meet students
The Council’s ongoing Books for All review of library services saw the team visit Outwood Grange Academy to get students’ views.
(15/4/2010) Mayor at Home welcomes civic heads
Civic heads from South and West Yorkshire will be visiting the Mayor of Wakefield, Councillor Heather Hudson, for the final Mayor at Home event of her term of office.
(14/4/2010) Pupils set for Safety Rangers training
School children will be learning how to stay safe in Wakefield by training to become Safety Rangers. More than 300 pupils from the Wakefield district will take part in a week of activities at Pontefract Fire Station designed to help them stay safe and avoid danger.
(14/4/2010) General Election run up begins
The official run-up to the General Election began this week when Wakefield Council's Chief Executive and Acting Returning Officer, Joanne Roney, received and signed the Parliamentary Writs in Wakefield Town Hall on Tuesday.
(13/4/2010) Wakefield Council Cabinet asks for national response to council tax rules for service personnel
Wakefield Council’s Cabinet is asking for a national response to council tax exemption for members of the Armed Forces on active service.
(13/4/2010) Council holds special meeting to bestow Freedom of the City awards
Wakefield Council is holding an extra-ordinary meeting later this month to award one Freedom of the City honour and transfer another, awarded in 1945. The Freedom of the City is the highest honour the Council can award.
(13/4/2010) Saturday Special at Wakefield Market
A new monthly specialist market will be held in Wakefield city centre for the first time this month.
(12/4/2010) Point the way for the million pound pothole repair programme
Wakefield Council is asking people to ‘point out a pothole’ to help them prioritise the £1 million pothole repair programme.
(12/4/2010) Home energy awareness at Castleford market
Wakefield Council will be on hand at Castleford Market this week (Friday 16 April) to give advice about saving energy, reducing fuel bills and staying warm.
(7/4/2010) Council recalls contractors to re-do resurfacing
Wakefield Council has been forced to recall contractors back to carry out new resurfacing work because their previous efforts did not meet the Council’s high standards.
(6/4/2010) £6.5 million funding boost for Wakefield Together
Wakefield Together has secured around £6.5m in reward funding in recognition of its excellent partnership work.
(1/4/2010) Dog walkers do the right thing – bag it and bin it!
Bag it and bin it – that’s the message from Wakefield Council to the dog owners who think they’re above the law
(31/3/2010) New section of Emerald Ring set for completion this spring
It’s all change for city centre roads near Westgate as a new section of the Emerald Ring road nears completion
(30/3/2010) Update on Colorado Way roadworks in Castleford
Major roadworks at Colorado Way, Castleford
(30/3/2010) Saturday specials at Wakefield Market
Saturday is a very special day at Wakefield Market where seven months of speciality markets and fun events have been lined up
(29/3/2010) A recipe for success for the districts’ caterers
The Council’s in-house Kingswood Catering Company has seen 420 members of staff gain an NVQ level 2 award in Customer Service
(26/3/2010) Crossing patrols now offer a helping hand to all ages.
Did you know that school crossing patrols can stop traffic to cross adults as well as children?
(25/3/2010) Time to vote for your favourite council worker - Wakefield Council Pride Awards 2010
It’s decision time for citizens across the Wakefield district as they pick the winner of the Citizen Award for this year’s Wakefield Council Pride Awards.
(24/3/2010) Curiouser and curiouser! Alice in Wonderland at Wakefield Museum
As a special treat this Easter holiday Alice in Wonderland has inspired an ‘Eat me Drink me’ family activity.
(24/3/2010) Books for All library review update
Wakefield Council’s review of its library and information service will be getting views of high school children this month and next.
(24/3/2010) Work on new multi-use sports pavilion set to begin
Construction on the new combined sports pavilion on the City of Wakefield Golf Course is set to begin
(24/3/2010) First look inside The Hepworth Wakefield
Wakefield's major new art gallery, The Hepworth Wakefield, will open its doors to the public for the first time on Wednesday 31 March from 5-9pm.
(24/3/2010) Don’t lose your voice – use the postal vote
Voters are being urged to apply for a postal vote if they think they won’t be able to visit a polling station on 6 May.
(23/3/2010) New deputy mayor announced
Councillor Ros Lund has been nominated to become the district’s next Deputy Mayor for the term of office which starts in May this year.
(23/3/2010) Litter clampdown on landowners
Wakefield Council is getting tough with landowners who do not clear litter or dumped rubbish from their land.
(22/3/2010) Hats off to traders in the Easter bonnet competition
Visitors to Castleford Market may spot their favourite trader in some unusual headgear this Easter.
(22/3/2010) Don’t miss our beautiful bouncing bunnies
An Easter bonnet competition and beautiful 7ft bouncing bunnies are some of the egg-citing happenings at Wakefield Market on Easter Saturday, April 3.
(22/3/2010) Chance for more families to get connected
More families can get connected to the internet at home with help from a new government scheme.
(22/3/2010) Works starts on new disability care support buildings
Wakefield Council this week joined staff, service users and families to mark the start of work on new facilities for adults with learning disabilities.
(19/3/2010) Cabinet members hitting the streets on litter patrols
Two of the Council’s cabinet members will be hitting the streets of Wakefield this weekend to see the work being done on the frontline to tackle litter.
(18/3/2010) Election nominations to open
Candidates for this year’s local elections can submit their nomination papers from Monday, 29 March 2010.
(17/3/2010) World's first Litter Twitter to take on the multi-million pound battle to tackle the district’s litter
Wakefield Council’s anti-littering campaign is picking up with the launch of what is thought to be the world’s first ever Litter Twitter this week.
(17/3/2010) New project will see Wakefield pupils link-up with students in China
It might be more than 5000 miles from Wakefield to China, but pupils from the district will soon be working closer to their fellow students halfway around the world.
(17/3/2010) Wakefield Council and ASDA help kids get active for free this summer
Wakefield Council has teamed up with ASDA to lend a helping hand to parents in the district by offering free sports and activity sessions for young people during the Easter and summer holidays.
(16/3/2010) Council action to save ancient yew tree
Action is set to be taken by Wakefield Council to save an ancient Yew Tree at Hemsworth which is in danger of collapse.
(16/3/2010) Ofsted recognises outstanding teacher training in Wakefield
The Wakefield Partnership for Initial Teacher Training (WPITT) has been recognised by Ofsted as a provider of outstanding Initial Teacher Training in England.
(15/3/2010) Litter-ally throwing money in the bin
Wakefield Council is being forced to throw nearly £4m in the bin every year because of people who drop litter.
(15/3/2010) Major event set to mark opening of Fryston Country Trails
Archery, rock climbing and boat trips are all in store for the major opening of the Fryston Country Trails.
(15/3/2010) Grand Prix event at Wakefield Market
Racing fans keen to celebrate the start of this year’s season should head for Wakefield Market for its first Grand Prix Challenge, on Saturday March 20.
(12/3/2010) Support for Wakefield businesses in British Tourism Week
Wakefield Council and Business Link Yorkshire are teaming up during British Tourism Week to offer advice and information to help local businesses improve.
(11/3/2010) Wakefield’s Trinity Walk back on track
Wakefield Council has agreed to put in place a commercial loan which will kick-start the stalled Trinity walk shopping development.
(10/3/2010) Market improvement works on track
Major improvement works to the food hall and outdoor area at Wakefield market are on track for completion later this spring.
(8/3/2010) Tributes paid to Sir Jack Smart 1920-2010
The first Leader of Wakefield Council, Sir Jack Smart, has died after a long and distinguished career in local government and trade unions
(5/3/2010) Orchard Head officially opened
Young children and their families are being given an extra helping hand after the new Orchard Head Children’s Centre officially opened in Pontefract this week.
(5/3/2010) City pool plans progressing
Plans are progressing on the creation of a new multi-million pound city centre swimming pool at the Sun lane site, Wakefield.
(3/3/2010) Blueprint on track for rail station
A blueprint for Monkhill rail station is on track for completion by the end of March.
(3/3/2010) Hospital’s name on overview and scrutiny agenda
The Council’s social care and health overview and scrutiny committee will hear views from local elected members and Wakefield Link over the name of the new hospital in Wakefield.
(3/3/2010) Council budget approved
Wakefield Council has this week approved its budget for 2010/11.
(2/3/2010) 1940s event getting into full swing at Castleford Civic Centre
History lovers of all ages are invited to get together and take part in a 1940s-style night to remember.
(2/3/2010) Road improvements reminder
Drivers are being reminded to follow signed diversions to help alleviate queuing while the exceptional road maintenance and improvement scheme is ongoing in Castleford.
(26/2/2010) The Big Spring Clean begins
The Big Spring Clean event across Wakefield's schools begins this month (March) and runs through to May
(24/2/2010) Freedom of the City of Wakefield event
Wakefield Council will be officially honouring the 3rd Battalion of the Yorkshire Regiment, known as the Duke of Wellingtons, with the Freedom of the City of Wakefield
(24/2/2010) Safer youth
Wakefield teenagers have a safe haven in the town centre at City Limits, a council funded centre, staffed by a team of professionals
(24/2/2010) Wakefield joins with the world to encourage reading
World Book Day is the biggest annual celebration of books and reading in the UK and Ireland, and Wakefield libraries have come up with a wide variety of activities in the days surrounding the event to encourage more people to discover the joy of books and reading
(24/2/2010) TV presenter at Oakfield Park event
Television presenter Harry Gration will be in Ackworth this week for a special event at a local school
(24/2/2010) Council tourism team up for national award
The Council’s tourist information team is really putting Wakefield on the map after being shortlisted for an Enjoy England Award for Excellence.
(23/2/2010) District's Young and older People Get Together
A special event aimed at bringing together younger and older people from across the district is being held in Featherstone in a bid to encourage greater understanding and respect between generations
(23/2/2010) More Mayor’s charity events in store
More exciting events are being lined up to help raise money for the Mayor of Wakefield’s charities
(22/2/2010) Road improvement scheme begins in March
The much-anticipated road improvement schemes affecting major access routes into the Wakefield and Glasshoughton begin on March 1, 2010
(18/2/2010) Mayor’s Charity Cup
Will you strike lucky in the Mayor’s Charity Cup?
(18/2/2010) Family fun day out
Magic, music and circus skills are just a few of the treats lined up for what promises to be a great day out.
(17/2/2010) New MYPs for the district announced
Another excellent turnout on Friday saw the district’s new Members of Youth Parliament (MYP) voted in to office.
(17/2/2010) Students give Wakefield a big spring clean
The Council has joined forces with local schools to give the district a spring clean.
(12/2/2010) Wakefield cleaners make the grade
Wakefield cleaners make the grade It’s a clean sweep for hard-working Council cleaners and caretakers after they were awarded top qualifications.
(12/2/2010) Would you like to make a difference to public services in Wakefield?
Wakefield’s Overview and Scrutiny Committees are made up of councillors and members of the local community who work together to improve the way public services are provided.
(10/2/2010) Council support for Fuel Poverty Awareness Day
Wakefield Council is supporting Fuel Poverty Awareness Day 2010 a national campaign which aims to highlight the effects of living in a cold home on people’s health.
(10/2/2010) Normanton Masterplan Public Drop-in session
A public drop in session designed to give people in Normanton the chance to have their say on council plans to breathe new life into the area, is being held on February 26.
(10/2/2010) Cabinet approves action on winter-damaged roads
Extra cash is being invested in making urgent repairs to the district’s roads following the severe winter weather.
(9/2/2010) Market Trader of the year is announced
A Castleford butcher has been named the Wakefield district Market Trader of the Year 2009.
(9/2/2010) Exciting art competition set to launch in Featherstone
An exciting competition for creative schoolchildren to help design a piece of community art is set to be launched.
(9/2/2010) Bird box fun for half term
Young tweeters and twitchers are invited to join the rangers at Frickley Country Park this half-term for a bird box making event.
(8/2/2010) Deputy cabinet member joins road repair teams
Council teams are already starting work on repairing damage to the district’s roads caused by the severe freezing weather earlier this winter.
(5/2/2010) Robsons making themselves at home at museum
This spring, visitors to Pontefract Museum will be invited to explore the world of the Robsons, one of the richest families in Pontefract over 100 years ago.
(4/2/2010) Tasty prizes on the menu for Wakefield’s FDR Festival 2010
Tasty prizes will be giving visitors food for thought at this year’s Food, Drink and Rhubarb Festival
(2/2/2010) New BMX bike track proposals on display
Plans for a new BMX bikers’ track are on display at Horbury and Ossett libraries until March 1.
(2/2/2010) Citizens have their say
Citizens came together in Castleford for the first in the series of events designed to provide an opportunity to create a Blueprint that captures ambitions for Wakefield District for the coming years. This was the first in a series of three events being held across the District.
(2/2/2010) Awards celebrate 20 years of recognising children’s achievements
This year’s annual Duke of Edinburgh Awards for Wakefield will be extra special as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.
(1/2/2010) Back to the floor for National Apprentice Week
Wakefield’s cabinet members and top management are becoming apprentices next week when they go ‘back to the floor’ for National Apprentice Week
(1/2/2010) Wakefield Together hits the road
A number of outside road shows will take place across the district with a view to talking to citizens about issues that matter to them
(29/1/2010) New support service launched
Wakefield Council and NHS Wakefield District has teamed up to fund a new service to support families caring for a disabled child.
(29/1/2010) Mayor’s charity raises thousands
Thanks to the generosity of people and businesses in the district more than £20,000 was raised during 2008/09 for the Mayor of Wakefield’s chosen charities.
(27/1/2010) Help shape the future of Knottingley
Everyone in Knottingley will get the chance to share their views as part of the work on the town’s masterplan next week.
(27/1/2010) Have your say on plans to boost historic Pontefract
Pontefract traders and residents are being encouraged to have their say over Wakefield Council proposals to restore and redevelop key historic areas of Pontefract.
(25/1/2010) Schools won’t crumble at Wakefield’s Rhubarb Challenge
Wakefield pupils are under starter’s orders for a new schools event at this year’s Rhubarb Run as part of the 2010 Festival of Food Drink and Rhubarb.
(25/1/2010) Innovation event call to Wakefield businesses
Wakefield Council is backing a district wide call to businesses to attend a free event to promote business innovation.
(25/1/2010) Wakefield pupils’ countdown to Youth Parliament vote
Pupils across Wakefield’s schools and colleges are getting ready to cast their vote in this year’s UK Youth Parliament vote which runs this year from February 1-5.
(22/1/2010) Airedale and Ferry Fryston by-election result
Following voting for the Airedale and Ferry Fryston by-election Les Shaw has been voted on to Wakefield Council.
(21/1/2010) New Havercroft and Ryhill Youth Centre Opening
A new youth centre already boosting facilities for young people in Havercroft and Ryhill celebrates its formal opening next month - thanks to Wakefield Council funding.
(21/1/2010) Feast for the eyes – food and drink exhibition at Wakefield Museum
A feast for the eyes of food and drink across the centuries in Wakefield is the focus of a new exhibition opening on Wednesday January 27.
(21/1/2010) Still time to have your say in Council's Pride Awards
Wakefield Council is holding its annual Pride Awards in April 2010 to recognise the very best of what its employees do for citizens - and the deadline for entries has now been extended.
(20/1/2010) Go! Play across the district
Wakefield Council has teamed up with the YMCA Go! Play project to make play time even bigger.
(20/1/2010) Wakefield’s Festival of Food, Drink and Rhubarb returns!
Delightful dishes and mouth-watering meals can only mean the return of the Food Drink and Rhubarb (FDR) festival for 2010.
(19/1/2010) District’s hairdressers get health & safety award
Fifteen hairdressing salons across district have won a prestigious Wakefield Council backed Health and Safety award which recognises exceptional health and safety standards.
(19/1/2010) Roads condition review following big freeze
The district’s key roads are set to be reviewed to look at the effect the big freeze has had on highways this winter.
(19/1/2010) Council leader pays tribute to soldier
Leader of Wakefield Council, Cllr Peter Box, has paid tribute to the latest member of the armed forces from the district to lose his life in Afghanistan.
(14/1/2010) Wakefield district weather update for this weekend
Wakefield Council's Corporate Director for Regeneration, Culture and Sport Andy Wallhead: “We are urging visitors to our town and city centres to be cautious this weekend in the case of further freezing weather conditions. We are continuing to grit priority routes around the district, including precincts and well-used footpaths, but given the low national stocks of grit/salt we are asking people not to assume that any road or footway is free from ice during this difficult time.
(13/1/2010) Take care - further freezing weather forecast for Wakefield
The snow in Wakefield is beginning to thaw but due to more forecasts of freezing weather the Council is urging people to remain vigilant.
(13/1/2010) Help on hand for district's vulnerable
Council volunteers have been put on standby to help any vulnerable people who have been isolated in their home by the severe weather conditions.
(12/1/2010) Take part and help shape the district
Wakefield Together is creating a blueprint for the district to capture people’s ambitions over the next 10 years – and it wants to hear from you.
(12/1/2010) Things hotting-up for cooking competition
Things will be hotting-up in the kitchen this winter when wannabee Jamie Olivers and Nigella Lawsons get chopping in a cook-off competition.
(11/1/2010) Gritter Twitter for Wakefield
Wakefield Council is using its pages on the social networking site Twitter to help keep people up to date with the weather and gritting situation.
(9/1/2010) Keeping the district moving this winter
Wakefield Council is planning closely with partners and co-ordinating joint working to help keep the district moving during these extreme winter conditions.
(9/1/2010) Wakefield Council continuing to keep the district moving in winter weather
The Council is working to keep the district moving in these extreme and freezing conditions throughout the rest of the week and over the weekend.
(6/1/2010) January by-elections in the Wakefield district
There will be two by-elections in the Wakefield district on Thursday, 21 January 2010.
(6/1/2010) Going the extra 13,500 miles to keep Wakefield moving in winter
Wakefield Council staff worked throughout Christmas and new year and are continuing to work round the clock to keep the district moving during the extreme snow and ice conditions – the coldest and longest winter spell since 1981 according to the Met Office.
(5/1/2010) Council working hard across the district during winter weather
We are working very hard to try and keep the district moving in these extremely heavy snow and ice conditions and are taking every appropriate action we are able to do.
(4/1/2010) Say thank you to someone who makes a difference
Wakefield Council is holding its annual Pride Awards in April 2010 to recognise the very best of what its employees do for citizens.
(29/12/2009) Wakefield shortlisted for Council of the Year
Wakefield Council has been shortlisted for Council of the Year as part of the national Local Government Chronicle Awards 2010.
(23/12/2009) Winter gritting
All A and B roads across the district have been gritted several times over the weekend period - covering 4,500 miles so far - and all available resources were sent out including snow plough vehicles to keep the roads open
(21/12/2009) Wakefield's Apprentice of the Year
Wakefield Council has said thank you to its apprentices in its Apprentice of the Year award ceremony.
(17/12/2009) Trinity legend set to be given freedom of the city
Wakefield Trinity legend Neil Fox MBE is set to be given the freedom of the city.
(17/12/2009) Keeping the district moving this winter
Wakefield Council is helping to keep the roads safe this winter with regular gritting and by using vehicle friendly salt and is asking drivers to do a few simple tasks to drive safe this winter.
(16/12/2009) Friday Night Fever
More than 30 young people will be spreading Christmas cheer this weekend alongside youth workers from Wakefield Council’s centre, The Base in Pontefract
(16/12/2009) Wakefield responsible landlords scheme to launch
A new scheme to provide a set of property and management standards for private landlords will be launched in the new year
(16/12/2009) More new and improved children’s play areas
More new and improved children’s play areas are being created thanks to work by Wakefield Council and members of local communities.
(16/12/2009) Travel safely in taxis this Christmas
Revellers are being urged by Wakefield Council and police to travel safely this Christmas and make sure they use licensed hackney carriages or private hire vehicles.
(16/12/2009) Helping hand at Fitzwilliam Country Park
Twelve young people from Hemsworth Arts and Community College have been helping Wakefield Council lay a new path at Fitzwilliam Country Park.
(15/12/2009) Castleford's Victorian Christmas
A host of singing Santas, a steam organ and Blackpool donkeys are just some of the attractions at Castleford’s Victorian Market this week.
(11/12/2009) Panto time with travel plan team
It’s panto time with the Council’s travel plan team who are inviting children, staff and parents to dress up as characters and join them on a walk to school.
(10/12/2009) Investing in road maintenance - 2009-2012 works programme published
Wakefield Council has published its current three-year work programme totalling £9m for highway maintenance.
(10/12/2009) A Christmas Carol goes digital online
This Christmas, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is jumping on to computer screens thanks to Wakefield Council’s libraries.
(9/12/2009) Council children’s services performing well
Wakefield Council’s services for children and young people in the district have been recognised as “performing well” in the Government’s latest assessment.
(9/12/2009) Louder voice for citizens as major libraries consultation set to launch
Citizens will be asked to help shape the future of library services when Wakefield Council launches a major new consultation and review.
(9/12/2009) Partnership praised in first Oneplace assessment
Organisations which make up the Wakefield Together partnership have been praised in the first Oneplace report, an independent overview of local public services.
(9/12/2009) Council performing well according to first Oneplace assessment
Wakefield Council has achieved a positive report from the country’s council watchdog as part of the first Oneplace assessment of public service performance throughout England.
(8/12/2009) Council warns citizens to be aware of bogus callers
The Council is asking citizens to stay vigilant following reports of scam artists calling residents claiming to offer council tax rebates.
(8/12/2009) Crime message hits the road
Success in driving down crime across the Wakefield District is being marked with a special campaign.
(7/12/2009) Flood mitigation works completed
Wakefield Council has recently completed 4,000 cubic metres of additional flood storage on Durkar Drain watercourse which runs alongside Denby Dale Road and through Pugneys Country Park
(4/12/2009) Council welcomes support for town centres
Wakefield Council has welcomed news of a Government grant of more than £50,000 to support shopping areas particularly affected by shop closures during the recession
(3/12/2009) Vote for your Market Trader of the Year
The hunt is on for the Wakefield district Market Trader of the Year 2009.
(3/12/2009) Pontefract Christmas market
There’ll be plenty of tasty treats on offer next week at Pontefract Christmas Market.
(3/12/2009) Council’s adult social care rated as excellent - again
Wakefield Council’s social care services for adults in the district have again been recognised as being excellent.
(2/12/2009) Beware of Schemes Claiming Grant Funding
Some households in the district are being mail dropped with leaflets claiming there are environmental grants for a range of home improvements.
(1/12/2009) Partnership helps young people toward new careers
Wakefield Council has teamed-up with The Prince’s Trust and VT Guidance Services to run more programmes to get unemployed young people into work.
(30/11/2009) Students’ DVD receives plaudits at awards ceremony
A film made by young people for young people, aimed at reducing crime and anti-social behaviour, has been recognised at a major regional awards ceremony.
(30/11/2009) Building Schools for the Future success
New look improved schools are on the way after Wakefield Council’s bid to be entered into the Building Schools for the Future scheme was approved.
(27/11/2009) Best of the Web
Best of the Web is a new service being launched by Wakefield Council’s libraries.
(27/11/2009) Leaders gather in Harrogate for regional pilot launch
Political and business leaders from the across the region are today (27 November) meeting in Harrogate to mark the official launch of the Leeds City Region Pilot Programme.
(26/11/2009) Work begins on Wakefield market food hall improvements
Work to improve Wakefield market’s food hall has got under way this week.
(26/11/2009) Council's outdoor centre to be reviewed
Members of Wakefield Council’s Lifelong Learning Overview & Scrutiny Committee have been to the seaside to see for themselves what the Council’s Hornsea Outdoor Residential Centre has to offer.
(26/11/2009) Education reforms under scrutiny
Wakefield Council’s Lifelong Learning Overview & Scrutiny Committee will be considering their final inquiry report into the delivery of the 14-19 Education Reforms in Wakefield at their next meeting to be held on December 7.
(26/11/2009) Extra funding to tackle anti-social behaviour
Extra funding to help key agencies tackle anti-social behaviour has been released by the Government.
(26/11/2009) More than 50 young people start work in Wakefield
More than 50 young people are starting work at the end of the month thanks to Wakefield Council, its partners and the Future Jobs Fund.
(25/11/2009) Vehicle safety crackdown in Wakefield city centre
Wakefield Council’s Licensing Enforcement Team joined forces with Wakefield District Police, VOSA, HM Revenue and Customs and Wakefield Council's Benefit Fraud Team for spot checks on private hire vehicles, hackney carriage vehicles and limousines in Wakefield city centre.
(24/11/2009) New Community Legal Advice Service on track for Spring 2010
Work on the district’s new Community Legal Advice Service remains on track to open in Spring 2010
(24/11/2009) District-wide support for autumn campaign
Neighbourhood Policing Teams across Wakefield District Division are lending their support to the latest Justice Seen Justice Done autumn campaign
(23/11/2009) Complaints to Council down
Complaints about Wakefield Council services have seen a massive drop during this financial year
(23/11/2009) Free parking for Christmas
Wakefield Council is again offering some free parking at weekends in the busy run-up to Christmas to make it easier and more affordable for people to do their festive shopping
(23/11/2009) Child poverty project funding success
Wakefield Council has been awarded £325,000 to deliver a Child Poverty Family Intervention Project (CPFIP) from next year.
(19/11/2009) Plans unveiled for city centre pool
Exciting plans for a multi-million pound pool and fitness centre in Wakefield city centre have been unveiled by Wakefield Council.
(19/11/2009) Athlete helps celebrate Wakefield’s children of achievement
One of Wakefield’s top athletic stars Martyn Bernard presented awards to children in care at an annual ceremony last night.
(19/11/2009) Government minister visits Wakefield
A top Government minister is visiting Wakefield on Thursday (Nov 19) to see the excellent work being done by the Council around culture, sport and education.
(19/11/2009) Tributes to Councillor Graham Phelps
Councillor Graham Phelps, a Castleford Labour councillor for more than 20 years, has died suddenly after a short illness
(19/11/2009) Pioneering health and safety relationship for Wakefield Council and Asda
Wakefield Council is leading the way in shaping the national focus on business efficiency and has teamed up with Asda to pioneer a new health and safety regulatory scheme.
(18/11/2009) Changes to library services in Flanshaw
New library services are being introduced in the Flanshaw area of Wakefield because the local library is in such a poor state that repairs would not be cost-effective.
(18/11/2009) Sharing lives and supporting families
Wakefield Council is encouraging people to become carers for adults and is letting them know about the support available to them.
(17/11/2009) Wakefield's Free City Bus is the perfect way to get around the city at Christmas
Wakefield’s FreeCityBus is provided by Wakefield Council and Metro so people can come to the city easily and take advantage of what it has to offer.
(17/11/2009) Christmas late night opening in the city centre
Wakefield city centre is set to be full of festive cheer this Christmas as retailers join forces to extend their opening hours.
(13/11/2009) Improvements for visitor centre
Sandal Castle Visitor Centre is to close temporarily but visitors will still be welcome to come along and enjoy the castle and its surroundings.
(13/11/2009) Wakefield Council supports go-ahead ideas for Global Entrepreneur Week
Wakefield Council and the district development agency, first, are supporting Global Entrepreneurship Week (November 16-22) which is encouraging people and countries all over the world to work together to find new ways to succeed.
(12/11/2009) Wakefield Council united in honouring Armed Forces
Wakefield Council is to offer the honour of the Freedom of the City to the Yorkshire Regiment in recognition of the sacrifices being made by servicemen and women.
(12/11/2009) Creating a unique Christmas experience
Wakefield Council is opening a shop to be run by people with learning disabilities to boost confidence and skills in a working environment in the run up to Christmas.
(12/11/2009) Young people to have their say at Students Speak
Young people from across the district will be getting together for the next Students Speak event to have a say on what’s important to them.
(12/11/2009) Next Liveability Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Neighbourhood Management Pilots will be discussed at the next Liveability Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting’s agenda.
(12/11/2009) Heritage Champion for Wakefield district
Wakefield Council has named their Heritage Champion following a meeting with the Pontefract Civic Society.
(12/11/2009) Lighting up the district this Christmas
It will be snowing in Wakefield whatever the weather when the city centre Christmas lights are switched on.
(10/11/2009) BBC My Story competition at libraries
Wakefield Libraries will be holding free drop-in sessions for people to add their stories to the BBC My Story website.
(10/11/2009) Students perform at Royal Albert Hall
Hundreds of talented pupils from Wakefield are performing at the Royal Albert Hall today (November 10).
(10/11/2009) Charities can trade for free at Wakefield Market
Charities will be able to trade free of charge at a special event at Wakefield Market in December.
(9/11/2009) Free Council room hire offer
Wakefield Council is helping people to beat the credit crunch by offering free room hire in some of its buildings.
(5/11/2009) Wakefield Council to open new Hemsworth-A1 Link Road
After 21 months of construction, work on the new link road is complete and ready to be opened to traffic.
(5/11/2009) Bookstart celebration in Hemsworth
The Bookstart campaign which encourages parents and carers to share books and rhymes with children will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a party at Hemsworth library.
(5/11/2009) Medieval cooks in the kitchen
King Henry VIII apparently once boiled his chef alive in his own stew pot, which leaves Gordon Ramsey seemingly tame in comparison.
(4/11/2009) Clean Green School Award
Schools in Ossett, Castleford and South Kirkby are celebrating after getting gold for going green in the district’s first ever Clean Green School Awards.
(3/11/2009) Walk with Fawkes
Children and parents are being invited to walk with Fawkes to celebrate Bonfire Night with Wakefield Council.
(3/11/2009) Making it easier to get around at Christmas – roadwork ban
Christmas shoppers and commuters will find it easier to travel around the district over the Christmas and New Year period thanks to the Council’s roadwork ban.
(2/11/2009) Youth hubs launched in Wakefield
Three youth hubs in the Wakefield area were re-launched on Friday (30 October) as the highlight of a week of activities to entertain young people during half term
(2/11/2009) Help bring the magic of Disney to Wakefield
Disney is searching for a place in the UK to twin with Walt Disney World Florida and the Wakefield district could be a contender
(2/11/2009) Tree-mendous addition to the arboretum, Newmillerdam
Volunteers will be helping to plant new trees at Newmillerdam’s arboretum on Monday 16 November and there is still a chance to get involved
(2/11/2009) Positively Ageing launch event with Harry Gration
The Wakefield Together partnership is launching its Positively Ageing strategy and action plan in November, with TV presenter Harry Gration set to be the guest speaker
(30/10/2009) Anti-Bullying Week 2009
During November a number of schools in the district will be taking part in activities for the sixth annual National Anti- Bullying Week organised by Antibullying Alliance and supported by Wakefield Council.
(30/10/2009) Teacher wins top national award
A teacher who overcame dyslexia to realise his dream of teaching has scooped a major national award.
(30/10/2009) Queen Victoria returns
The historic Grade 2 listed statue of Queen Victoria is coming home to Wakefield after specialist repair and conservation work.
(30/10/2009) District’s MYPs making history with historic visit
Members of the Youth Parliament (MYPs) from across the district are set to make history when they venture to the House of Commons this week.
(28/10/2009) Building on Trinity Walk to restart in January 2010
The development of Wakefield’s Trinity Walk Shopping Centre is back on track after a consortium has stepped in to complete the 550,000 sq ft shopping centre, which went into administration early this year
(27/10/2009) Council deputy leader calls halt to plans for one-way traffic system
The Deputy Leader of Wakefield Council has pledged that the proposed one-way system for St John’s in the city centre will be scrapped and has instructed officers to find an alternative solution.
(27/10/2009) More discounts for home insulation available
Wakefield Council teamed up with GoWarm back in April to bring affordable energy efficiency measures to privately owned homes in the district.
(27/10/2009) Wakefield's Annual Festival of Remembrance
The Annual Festival of Remembrance will be held in Wakefield Cathedral on Friday 6 November 2009.
(27/10/2009) Roll out the red carpet! Wakefield District is having its own world film premiere
‘Impact and Consequences’, a film aimed at reducing crime and anti social behaviour among young people, will be shown for the very first time during ‘Not in my Neighbourhood Week’ at Airedale High School.
(26/10/2009) Takeaways fined for not cleaning up their act
Four takeaways in Wakefield have been fined £100 each for failing to help keep the city tidy
(26/10/2009) Re-launching the district’s young people’s centres
Almost £500,000 has been invested in three youth centres across the district to improve services for young people
(26/10/2009) The Hepworth Wakefield features in a major London exhibition
The Hepworth Wakefield is being showcased in an international exhibition called Form Matters at the Design Museum in London from 21 October – 31 January 2010
(26/10/2009) Wakefield's bonfire and firework event
Thousands of visitors are expected at Thornes Park to celebrate the district's official bonfire and fireworks display on Saturday 7 November
(26/10/2009) Adoption - could you make it happen?
It’s national adoption week in November and Wakefield Council is taking the opportunity to highlight the need for people willing to take the first step towards adopting a child
(23/10/2009) Council supports Not in My Neighbourhood Week 2009
A national campaign to address crime and anti-social behaviour in our communities is being supported by Wakefield Council and the Wakefield Together partnership for the third year running
(23/10/2009) Prime Minister's visit to Wakefield
Prime Minister Gordon Brown was in Wakefield on Thursday, October 22, to look at how the district is tackling anti-social behaviour and to meet shoppers and businesses in the city centre
(21/10/2009) Council employee recognised for outstanding customer service
Wakefield Council’s Tourist Information Centre’s visitor services assistant Linda Banks’s friendly approach to her work has won her a major regional award.
(20/10/2009) Businesses get the chance to meet the buyer at Wakefield Council
Businesses are being urged to take advantage of Wakefield Council’s Meet the Buyer event – particularly during the current economic climate.
(20/10/2009) Celebrating autumn at Clarke Hall in Wakefield
To celebrate Apple Day, on Sunday 25th October, Clarke Hall will be holding a day of apple fun and traditional country crafts set in the beautiful 17th century house and garden.
(19/10/2009) Council invites citizens to share ideas about regeneration
Wakefield Council is organising two events at which people can share their ideas about future regeneration work.
(19/10/2009) Energizing event in Wakefield
An energizing event will be sparking to life in Wakefield city centre as part of National Energy Efficiency Week
(16/10/2009) Volunteer recognised for helping young people
An inspirational and dedicated volunteer has had his work recognised at a major awards ceremony
(13/10/2009) Hearing dogs lead walk with children to school
A paw-fect partnership has seen Wakefield Council team-up with Hearing Dogs for Deaf People to promote healthier and safer travel.
(13/10/2009) Award winning crime writer at Drury Lane Library
Drury Lane Library Readers’ Group is inviting people to an informal talk by award winning crime writer Robert Barnard.
(13/10/2009) By-election for North Elmsall Parish Council
There will be a by-election for North Elmsall Parish Council on 29 October.
(8/10/2009) Wakefield Council wins top Yorkshire award
Wakefield Council has been named Local Authority of the Year at the second Insider Yorkshire Property Industry Awards.
(7/10/2009) Wakefield Council gets safety message across to junior rangers
Pupils from nine schools in the Wakefield district are being taught how to stay safe at special sessions where they will train as Safety Rangers at Pontefract Fire Station
(7/10/2009) Find out more about law and Victorian Britain with Wakefield’s libraries
Wakefield libraries have added two new services to its online resources – more than two million pages of 19th century British newspapers and CANS (Citizen Advice Notes) Legal Information are now available to view by library members for free
(6/10/2009) Wakefield’s favourite shines through
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star has been named as the district’s favourite nursery rhyme as part of Wakefield Council’s library celebrations of National Bookstart Day
(6/10/2009) Electoral registration canvassers on the streets
Canvassers from Wakefield Council will be visiting people in their home over the next two weeks (17 October – 25 October) to make sure that they maintain their right to vote.
(6/10/2009) Safer schools programme 09/10
The Wakefield Together Partnership held an education day at Knottingley High School for year 7 pupils focusing on issues such as railway safety, youth crime and alcohol and drugs
(2/10/2009) Fighting hate crime together
The Wakefield Together Partnership hosted an event on September 30 to look at how it can better support victims of hate crime.
(30/9/2009) Fundraising fun for Mayor’s music night
The Mayor of Wakefield is hoping to hit all the right notes for fundraising with a special charity music evening.
(30/9/2009) All change for National Customer Service Week 2009
Wakefield Council’s leader will join the environment team and school children as he helps clear litter as part of National Customer Service Week 2009.
(30/9/2009) Generation game at heart of community planting event
Bridging the generation gap to strengthen community spirit and pride is at the heart of a bulb planting scheme in Crofton
(30/9/2009) Authors and poet to visit libraries
A best selling author and Wakefield poet are visiting Wakefield’s libraries next week to talk about their work and share their experiences.
(30/9/2009) Family Learning Festival 2009
Nintendo Wii competitions, nail art and writers groups are just some of the activities being held across the district to celebrate the Family Learning Festival 2009.
(29/9/2009) Distraction Devastates – road safety campaign
Wakefield Council is taking part in the Distraction Devastates campaign aimed at saving lives on the district’s roads.
(29/9/2009) It’s rhyme time at libraries for National Bookstart Day 2009
Children across the district are busy practising their nursery rhymes ahead of National Bookstart Day 2009.
(25/9/2009) Day of action in Horbury and Knottingley
Wakefield Council joined partners to target environmental crime in Horbury and Knottingley on Tuesday (22 September).
(25/9/2009) Council leader welcomes crackdown on lap dancing clubs
The Leader of Wakefield Council Cllr Peter Box, has today welcomed government proposals to introduce tougher restrictions on lap-dancing clubs.
(23/9/2009) Springs Advice Centre celebrates two decades of helping people
It’s two decades and going strong for Wakefield Council’s Springs Advice Centre
(22/9/2009) Citizens have a voice with next Wakefield Speaks
A Dragons’ Den-style panel of local business experts will be lining up as part of the next Wakefield Speaks event
(22/9/2009) Win with Wakefield libraries - celebrating quality online library services
This year the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography Online celebrates its fifth anniversary and a special competition is being held to mark the occasion.
(18/9/2009) Wakefield’s young people tackle youth crime in new series of films
Wakefield’s young people are holding a premiere later this month to showcase a series of films they have produced with the help of Wakefield Council.
(17/9/2009) Wakefield's stop the drop initiative moves on to Pontefract and Castleford
Wakefield Council held a ‘stop the drop’ initiative this week to prevent littering and anti-social behaviour in Wakefield city centre
(17/9/2009) More than a million on board with FreeCityBus
Wakefield’s FreeCityBus is proving a wheelie big success – and more than a million people can’t be wrong
(16/9/2009) Improvements to Barnsley Road and Standbridge Lane
Essential road works to improve and resurface Barnsley Road and Standbridge Lane are set to begin later this month.
(15/9/2009) Caring for children in Wakefield district – we need your views
Wakefield Council is asking the district’s parents and carers to come forward and tell us what they need from childcare provision in the area to make sure their requirements are being met.
(15/9/2009) Competition set to go swimmingly
Young gifted swimmers with disabilities from Wakefield district will be competing against others from across West Yorkshire next week.
(15/9/2009) Future Jobs Fund Wakefield bid successful
Wakefield Council and partners are celebrating their success in bringing extra temporary jobs to the district from October 2009 to April 2010.
(15/9/2009) Wakefield asks young people to get ‘in the can’ to help reduce road accidents
A new campaign is being launched in a bid to reduce road casualties among young people.
(14/9/2009) Wakefield Council helps boost skills
People across the Wakefield district still have time to take up a host of courses to help boost their skills and confidence
(14/9/2009) Wakefield celebrates global status for its woodland
Wakefield Council is celebrating receiving forest certification for much of its woodland with two days of fun and free events
(11/9/2009) Council seeks employers to shape skills agenda
Wakefield Council is seeking local employers for a new partnership to help shape the skills and employment agenda across the Wakefield district as part of the fightback against the recession.
(9/9/2009) Anti-social behaviour orders for Normanton pair
Two men have been given anti-social behaviour orders for offences on the Woodhouse estate in Normanton.
(9/9/2009) Focus on fostering for fundraising walk
Fostering will be the focus of a five-mile fundraising walk being organised by Wakefield Council. The aim of the Walking 4 Fostering event is to promote fostering and encourage new people to come forward to consider becoming foster carers.
(8/9/2009) Wakefield district celebrates children’s centres
Sure Start Children’s Week is being celebrated across Wakefield to mark the growth of the children’s centre network across England.
(2/9/2009) Wakefield’s Festival of Food Drink and Rhubarb nominated for top tourism award
Wakefield Council’s Festival of Food Drink and Rhubarb (FDR) is in the running for a Yorkshire Tourism Oscar.
(2/9/2009) Walkers benefit from replacement footbridges
A partnership between Wakefield Council, British Trust for Conservation Volunteers and the Peak & Northern Footpaths Society has secured the replacement of two dilapidated footbridges on paths in Ackworth and North Elmsall
(17/8/2007) Experience Wakefield’s countryside
Countryside Rangers are promoting their country parks and events programme with displays and children’s activities
(13/8/2007) The Olympics come early
The Olympics are coming to the district early with a roadshow to encourage getting active on Sunday (August 19).
(24/7/2007) Wakefield pupils celebrate their crime reduction project
An end of term open day is being held in Sandal Magna Junior and Infants School on Wednesday 25 July to celebrate the success of a project to highlight community safety.