Wakefield Council approves extension to outdoor trading hours
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Wakefield Council is supporting local businesses by extending outdoor trading hours from 10pm to 12am on Friday and Saturday nights.
“Supporting our local businesses and high streets to thrive is one of our top priorities.
“So, I’m really pleased that we’ve made the decision to extend outdoor trading hours.
“Some of our smaller hospitality venues in particular benefit from having extra outside space, and to allow that to be open for longer, will help to boost the local nighttime economy.”
Cllr Daniel Wilton
Cabinet Member for Communities
“This is extremely welcome news as an extension to outdoor trading hours is something that our nighttime economy and hospitality venues have been asking for.
“It’s just one of the many ways we are continuing to do what we can to support local businesses and help our high streets to prosper.”
Cllr Jack Hemingway
Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth
Thomas Wales, Chief Executive, Wakefield BID, said: "This is a really positive step forward for Wakefield. Extending outdoor trading hours gives our hospitality businesses the flexibility they’ve been asking for and helps create a more sociable, welcoming city centre in the evenings. It’s a small change with a big impact – supporting jobs, boosting business, and helping Wakefield feel alive after dark.
“Wakefield BID pushed for this because it’s what our businesses need, and we’re proud to have worked closely with the Council to make it happen. It’s another example of how Wakefield BID is backing our city and helping to build a stronger, more vibrant place for everyone.”
The changes will be reviewed in June 2026.