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Council Leader’s priorities confirmed to improve our communities

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Wakefield Council has confirmed the ten priority areas set out to deliver change for everyone in the district.

The new administration has committed to delivering a series of practical improvements that will make a real difference for residents and businesses.

The ten key priorities include investing in roads. Reviewing Council spending to cut waste and improve efficiency. Improving opportunities for young people. And keeping the city and town centres clean and safe to support the local economy. 

“Everything we do is going to be about putting local people first and focusing on what matters most to you.

“We’re setting out clearly what we’re going to deliver for you. Our new priorities are based on the things that you have raised with us most often when we’re out and about.

“We know you want to see change quickly. That’s why work is already underway to deliver in our ten priority areas.

“It’s great today to be able to confirm our clear direction for the next few months. To listen to your views so that you can shape local decisions. To make sure every pound the Council spends is used responsibly. And to deliver the lasting change residents want to see.”

Cllr Karl Johnson

Leader of Wakefield Council

Cllr Karl Johnson

Cabinet heard how work is underway to develop a detailed plan which will set out how each priority will be delivered.

Work has already started in some areas, including to:

  • review the highways maintenance programme to make sure it delivers as effectively as possible.
  • launch a summer of action to smarten up Wakefield city centre, with a programme of highways improvements, stepping up of day-to-day maintenance across the city centre, and increased enforcement activity.
  • start a public engagement exercise to invite residents and businesses to share their views on the future of our city centre.
  • develop a new economic growth plan for the Wakefield district
  • undeclare a climate emergency in Wakefield

The Cabinet meeting can be watched again on the Council’s YouTube channel.

 

The full list of priorities set out by Cllr Johnson at Full Council on Wednesday 17 June:

  • 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 accelerate 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 and support for adults who are supported by adult social care
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