Major city centre proposals move onto next stage of democratic process
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
The ambitious Cathedral Quarter redevelopment proposal will be considered by the Council’s Regeneration Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as part of Wakefield’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
“We welcome the opportunity to present this to Overview and Scrutiny. These committees act as a vital check and balance within local government.
The Cathedral Quarter vision paves the way for the biggest transformation in this part of the city for over 40 years. And it’s absolutely right and proper that we use this democratic process to examine Cabinet’s decision and hold us to account.”
Cllr Jack Hemingway
Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth
Overview and Scrutiny committees are made up of elected members from different political parties, along with co‑opted members from local organisations in the community, and members of the public. They review Cabinet decisions and can ‘call in’ any they choose to scrutinise further.
Committees can examine the proposals put to Cabinet, ask questions, and make recommendations. This could be that Cabinet proceed with the decision, amend or reconsider.
“Call in is part of Wakefield’s democratic process to ensure accountability and transparency. And that decision making is robust.
“The Chair of the Regeneration Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Cllr Heptinstall, has called in the Cabinet decision relating to the proposals for the Cathedral Quarter Project for the committee’s consideration in the interests of openness and transparency in decision making. This will take place on a date to be set in early March.”
Gillian Marshall
Chief Legal Officer
The Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting is open to the public to observe. The committee will consider the decision and either release it to be implemented or refer it back for further consideration.
Public and business consultation on the Cathedral Quarter proposal is planned to run throughout the year, over a number of phases. This will give everyone the opportunity to help shape the future of the city centre. The first stage of the consultation is scheduled to get underway this Spring.