Council Leader pledges to put local people first as new priorities announced
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Wakefield’s Council Leader has set out the new priorities that will put local people first and deliver change for everyone in our district.
The new administration running the Council will deliver a series of practical, deliverable improvements that will make a real difference to the lives of residents.
“We’re focusing on what matters most to people. The priorities that I’m setting out today reflect the things that you raised with us over and over again whilst we’ve been out and about over the last few months.
“Everything we do is going to be about putting local people first. Using local taxpayer’s money more wisely. And taking decisive steps to reverse Wakefield’s decline.”
Cllr Karl Johnson
Leader of Wakefield Council
The ten key priorities include investing in roads and reviewing all Council spending to cut waste and improve efficiency. They also include improving opportunities for young people and keeping the City and town centres clean and safe to support the local economy.
Cllr Johnson added: “We can’t solve every problem overnight, but we are going to make a difference to make your life better. Everyone who uses our roads is going to see fewer potholes, better road markings, and general improvements as we invest more in our roads.
“We’re going to review spending right across the Council to tackle waste, improve efficiency, and get better value for money.
“And we want to bring more people into our city and town centres by making them clean and safe places to visit. To boost local spending and create more opportunities for local residents and businesses.”
The full list of priorities set out by Cllr Johnson at Full Council on Wednesday 17 June are to:
• Launch a Leader’s budget efficiency programme to review all Council spending
• Invest in the district’s roads, to tackle potholes and improve the general condition of roads
• Improve the management of the city and town centres, creating welcoming, clean and safe places to visit
• Launch a new Economic Growth Plan to support investment into the district
• Develop a new approach to give young people not in employment, education or training a brighter future
• Focus on environmental maintenance to make every part of the district a great place to live
• Roll out a new model of integrated neighbourhood management to help local people have more say in local public services
• Carry out an in-depth review of the Cathedral Quarter masterplan and plans for Castleford town centre regeneration
• Undeclare a climate emergency and refocus on energy efficiency and cost of living interventions that provide practical help to residents
• Accelerate the transformation of Adult Social Care to improve care for older and vulnerable adults
Cllr Johnson said: “Our new Cabinet have really hit the ground running to get under the bonnet of the Council and then set out the direction we’re going to take over the next few months.
“Change doesn’t happen overnight, but we’re going to be working round the clock to drive forward our priorities so that the Council works for you.”
A detailed report on these priorities will be considered by key decision makers at the Council’s Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 21 July at 5:30pm.