Plans moving forward to transform Wakefield city centre
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Ambitious plans to transform Wakefield city centre are moving forward as the Council is set to agree terms with Muse, the Strategic Regeneration Partner for Wakefield.
This is the first stage of work to accelerate the delivery of the city’s regeneration plans. It will lead to new proposals being developed for the Cathedral Quarter and Borough Road, which are the first two elements of ambitious plans with further phases to follow.
“We want to attract more people to live, work, and visit Wakefield city centre, taking advantage of our tremendous potential.
“Building on the projects we already have planned, we are focusing on creating more high-quality, affordable homes to promote city centre living. On increasing footfall and the amount of time people spend in our city to help businesses to thrive. On enhancing our leisure offer and the quality of our buildings. And on taking advantage of our unrivalled connectivity – including to Leeds and London – promoting Wakefield’s fantastic location and transport links.
“This is all about looking forward and investing in our city now so that people and businesses have more reasons to come into our city centre. And future generations can be proud to call the Wakefield district home.”
Cllr Denise Jeffery
Leader of Wakefield Council
“Getting these plans right from the outset is really important. We’re aiming to make it easier to get around the city and improve access to key places like Wakefield Waterfront. To create more green spaces for people to enjoy. And to plan for the future of our economy, getting the balance right between retail and leisure and attracting good quality jobs.
“That’s why we’re working with Muse – who have a great track record of delivering transformational regeneration projects across the country. By working in partnership we can drive forward ambitious plans more quickly and on a bigger scale. And make sure we talk to our local communities every step of the way so that plans reflect what you want from our city centre.”
Cllr Jack Hemingway
Deputy Leader of Wakefield Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth
Wakefield Council will be working in partnership with Muse to set a strategy that will transform the city centre. The work will consider new public realm at Cathedral Square, how to increase green space, bringing new homes into the city, increasing leisure footfall, and improving connectivity across key areas of the city.
Simon Dew, Development Director at Muse, said: “Wakefield is a city ready for its next chapter – and we're excited to be part of the team helping to unlock its potential. The developments at Cathedral Quarter and Borough Road will drive real economic growth, attract new investment, and create the kind of homes, jobs, and public spaces that support thriving local communities.
"With decades of experience delivering regeneration that lasts, and extends beyond bricks and mortar, we’re looking forward to working closely with Wakefield Council to realise our shared ambition.
"The Partnership’s plans are truly transformative and will help shape a city centre that’s greener, better connected, and full of opportunity for residents across Wakefield and the wider borough.
"We’re proud to bring our placemaking expertise to this partnership and look forward to collaborating not only with council, local people and businesses, but with the wider network of regional stakeholders who are playing a vital role in shaping the future of this great city."
Other existing plans include a hotel on the old Westgate Station site and the delivery of new housing in the Kirkgate area. Demolition of the Wilkinsons unit and small number of units on Kirkgate is planned for late 2025.
Cllr Jeffery added: “Wakefield has an incredibly exciting future ahead and our work with Muse is going to bring this ambitious vision to life and benefit everyone who lives and works in our great city.”
Detailed proposals will be considered by Cabinet later this year, with all plans subject to public consultation.
The report will be discussed at the next Wakefield Council Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 22 July at 10.30am. The meeting can be watched live or later at Wakefield Council - Cabinet meetings - YouTube.