Strategic Regeneration Partner appointed to bring about big changes for Castleford
Thursday, August 06, 2026
Ambitious plans to transform Castleford are moving forward as Wakefield Council appoints Muse to be its Strategic Regeneration Partner for the town.
The partnership will help accelerate the regeneration of Castleford. Muse, alongside the Council, will focus on revitalising the town centre, while creating new opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors.
“This is an important next step in our plans for Castleford and, most importantly, for the people who live here.
“We’re determined to deliver the change that Castleford residents and businesses have been waiting for. We want to be ambitious – our aim is not just to improve what we already have, but to attract new investment that will unlock bigger and better opportunities. That’s how we will bring lasting benefits to the community and build a town everyone can be proud of.
“This partnership provides us with the additional expertise we need to deliver the kind of improvements residents and businesses want to see. It will help us appeal to investors, enhance the town centre, and create more opportunities for local people.
“Local residents and businesses will have the chance to tell us about things they’d like to see included in future regeneration projects. Feedback will help the Council and Muse shape exciting new proposals that will deliver for everyone who lives, works in or visits the town.”
Cllr Matthew Pinder
Cabinet Member for District Regeneration and Regional Growth
Muse has over 40 years’ experience in delivering large scale projects in other cities including Birmingham, London, Leeds and Manchester. By co-ordinating the companies involved in delivering these projects, the partnership with Muse will help the Council drive forward the next phase of regeneration in Castleford.
Simon Dew, Managing Director for Yorkshire and North East at Muse, said: "Castleford is a town with a strong identity, rich heritage and proud community, and we're delighted to be working with Wakefield Council to help shape its next chapter.
"By combining the Council's local knowledge and ambition with our placemaking experience, we can create a shared vision that reflects what matters most to local people.
"There is already real momentum behind the town, with significant investment being made and clear goals for the future. Our role is to build on those foundations and work alongside the Council, residents and local businesses to shape a town that is healthier, better connected and full of opportunities for people to live, work and spend time.”
Muse will work with the Council to develop plans to improve the town centre. Residents and businesses will have various opportunities to have their say and influence any final designs.
Alongside the new projects that Muse will be supporting, significant funding has already been secured to support Castleford’s transformation. This includes £23.9 million from the Government’s Town Deal programme, which is helping to deliver improvements to the riverside and town centre. In addition, the town has been awarded a further £20 million through the Government’s Pride in Place programme – to be delivered over a 10-year period.
For more information on the regeneration work taking place in Castleford and right across the district visit: www.wakefield.gov.uk/regeneration