Once-in-a-generation landmark project set to completely reshape Wakefield city centre

Wakefield Council has today unveiled a bold new vision for the heart of the city, paving the way for the biggest transformation in over 40 years.  
 
The ambitious redevelopment will see the demolition of The Ridings Shopping Centre to make way for a vibrant new quarter for leisure, living and events.  

The Cathedral Quarter redevelopment will take place in several stages over 10-15 years. Unlocking the delivery of over 1,000 new and sustainable, affordable private homes. Alongside a new public square and green spaces aimed at families and children, leisure and hospitality opportunities, a cinema and extensive car parking. Plus, a brand-new library and museum to improve and complement the existing cultural and heritage offer. As well as making it much easier for people to move around the city, reinstating the historic street pattern.

The Council’s announcement follows the news last month that M&S are moving out of The Ridings shopping centre and the city centre. And the Council also understands that Primark will be relocating to another part of the city later this year.

Cllr Hemingway explained: “We don’t underestimate the strength of feeling about The Ridings. It’s been a huge part of our city and once helped to put us on the map. But that is not the shopping centre you see now. Like many high streets across the county, it has faced significant challenges due to the rise of online retail, decline in footfall and has struggled to return to its former levels of activity.  
 
“The departure of M&S and Primark relocating elsewhere in the city is a hammer blow to The Ridings. So, over recent months we stepped up our discussions with Mr Iqbal and we’re pleased to be working with him to seize this opportunity for a new future for Wakefield.

“City centres must change to survive and create a long-term, sustainable future. It is time to be bold and make this change now. To create a city that attracts more investment and jobs. And a city that everyone is proud to call home.”
 
As part of the Council’s plans to acquire the shopping centre, a management company will be appointed to continue to run the centre until its redevelopment. Running alongside this will be help for The Ridings’ businesses. Those who want to stay in the city will be supported to do so. 

Zahid Iqbal, Owner of The Ridings Shopping Centre, said: “The Ridings has been a key part of the city for over 40 years, and I am proud to have been a part of that. But now it is time for change.  
 
"These plans are in the best interests for the future of the city. And I really hope everyone gets behind these bold plans for Wakefield.”  
 
Included in the Cathedral Quarter footprint is some of the nearby 1960s residential tower blocks, currently owned by Vico Homes. The plans would see these replaced by around 200 modern, sustainable homes for Vico Homes residents in the first phase of redevelopment. Wakefield Council is working closely with Vico Homes to make sure residents are supported. 

Cllr Hemingway added: “Supporting our existing businesses alongside attracting new investment is an absolute priority. Businesses whose current sites would be impacted still have a future in our city. If they want to stay in Wakefield, they will be supported to stay when the time comes.

“We’re also prioritising everyone who calls the city home. Working closely with Vico Homes, we’re committed to providing that support – the first phase of redevelopment will prioritise their new homes.”

Development of the Cathedral Quarter plans have been led by the Council’s Strategic Regeneration Partner, Muse, who already have a history of successful delivery in the city. Leading on aspects of the Merchant Gate redevelopment, Muse were responsible for delivering the Council building, Wakefield One, alongside other offices, leisure and residential accommodation in addition to a multi-story carpark and extensive public realm and infrastructure improvements.

Cllr Hemingway explained: “We now have both the funding to buy The Ridings and the specialist development expertise we need to kickstart work to bring this vision to life.  
 
“Muse has a proven track record of successfully delivering here in Wakefield. And similar projects all over the country. They bring with them extensive experience and knowledge of the funding landscape. And we have the support of other partners like MHCLG, Homes England and West Yorkshire Combined Authority. 
 
“The pieces are in place to make this happen.” 
 
Simon Dew, Director of Development Management at Muse, said: “The challenges that the city centre is facing are happening in many areas up and down the country as shopping habits change and former retail areas need to be repurposed. These bold plans are exactly the right thing to do for the long-term sustainable future of Wakefield.  
 
“Our proposals to deliver residential, leisure and commercial accommodation in the Cathedral Quarter will act as a major catalyst for this part of the city centre. Bringing more people into Wakefield and driving economic activity for the city.  
 
“We have significant experience of making visions like this a reality. This is the right direction and the right time for us to work with Wakefield to make it happen.”  
 
The first phase is being funded through £17.9 million of Ministry of Housing, Community and Local Government (MHCLG). This covers the acquisition of The Ridings, as well as contributing towards the extensive costs of completing this first phase including the development of planning applications, grant funding, business cases and wider resources. The cost to buy The Ridings reflects independent commercial advice on its market value.

The first stage of the plans will be considered at the Council’s Cabinet meeting on 17 February. If approved, a consultation will then start for residents and businesses to give their views.