Wakefield Council safeguards heritage areas across the district
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Wakefield Council has approved two new conservation areas in Castleford and Felkirk and Hodroyd to help preserve these special areas for future generations.
The boundaries of two existing conservation areas in Ossett and Wood Street in Wakefield city centre have also been extended.
“We’ve been reviewing conservation areas across the district to make sure they continue to protect the special character of our historic places.
“As part of this work, we’ve updated some of our conservation areas and introduced some boundary changes.
“We carried out public consultations in each location to find out what matters most to residents. And it was your feedback that helped shape the new plans.
“The ongoing work we’re doing will help protect the district’s heritage properly.
“It also supports future planning decisions and regeneration, in line with the proposed new national requirements, requiring Councils to regularly review conservation areas.”
Cllr Matthew Morley
Cabinet Member for Planning and Highways
A full public consultation was undertaken by Wakefield Council, including consultation with Historic England and the West Yorkshire Archaeology Service.
The proposals for new conservation areas in Felkirk and Castleford were led by the local community. The Felkirk Heritage Group and the Castleford Civic Society carried out detailed research into the history of their areas.
Where concerns were raised about the historic or architectural importance of specific areas, the Council reviewed and amended the proposed boundaries where appropriate.
Kathryn Stainburn, Heritage Lead for the Castleford Civic Society, said: “Castleford Civic Society were very pleased to support the proposals for a conservation area in Castleford. When the idea was out for public consultation, we had really positive feedback. It’s great to know that so many people care about our town. We’re proud of our rich industrial heritage and we’re pleased there will now be protections in place which acknowledge the importance of these buildings.”
Trish and Ian Farr, from the Felkirk Heritage Group, said: “The Felkirk Heritage Group and the local community are extremely proud that our heritage has been officially recognised by Wakefield Council, by the granting of conservation area status. The new protection for Felkirk and Hodroyd will ensure continued enjoyment and protection for generations to come.”
For more information and to view the boundary changes and new conservation areas, visit: https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/conservationreview