Cabinet decisions go ahead to secure significant investment across the district

​Wakefield Council has today approved millions of pounds worth of investment and support across the district.

Following the latest Government guidance, today’s Cabinet meeting was replaced by Leader decisions, following a consultation discussion with Cabinet Members.

The Council’s Chief Legal Officer oversaw the call, to ensure that all necessary governance was in place.

 Cllr Denise Jeffery, Leader of Wakefield Council, said: “It is important to us that urgent decision making can continue so that much needed support and investment can still be delivered across the district.

"Now, more than ever, it’s important that decisions are made that will make a real difference to people’s lives and I am delighted that today we have pledged millions of pounds worth of investment in vital projects.

"I have also approved the next steps of the £1.8bn West Yorkshire Devolution Deal – which will unlock decades of significant investment for Wakefield.” 

The following decisions have today (Tuesday 24 March) been approved:

·         £10m investment into the district’s town centres including Horbury, Ossett and the south east of the district, ensuring they continue to be vibrant places that attract investment from businesses and visitors.

·         An extension to the city centre’s successful Public Space Protection Order for a further three years to tackle anti-social behaviour.

·         £3m investment in a new Community Hub for the Knottingley area to provide support for people to develop work skills, take part in sports activities and health and wellbeing initiatives. Plans also include a café, meeting space for community groups, business space and digital area.

·         £2.2m investment boost for Ossett Town Hall. The money will pay for the refurbishment of the auditorium and public areas, in order to improve its facilities and preserve the listed nature of the building. It will also go towards preserving the structural integrity of the building, including the roof.

·         Approval to begin the review process for the ambitious £1.8billion West Yorkshire devolution deal, the biggest ever of its kind, which is set to unlock decades of significant investment for the Wakefield district. 

Future meetings of Cabinet, Licensing Committee and Planning Committee scheduled in the next few weeks will also be replaced by delegated decisions after consultation with Cabinet and Committee Chairs.

 Longer term, alternative arrangements will be made once legal powers are in place to allow committees to meet virtually and as part of this Wakefield Council will identify the best way to share these meetings with the public to ensure it can continue its commitment to openness and transparency.