Wakefield open for business as new plan for economic growth unveiled
Tuesday, August 04, 2026
Wakefield Council has today unveiled its new Economic Growth Plan. It sets out a long-term roadmap to attract investment, create jobs and help people develop the skills needed to support Wakefield’s future economy.
Over 130 businesses and residents attended the event at WX to hear directly from the Leader of the Council, Cllr Karl Johnson, about ambitious plans to create more opportunities for local businesses and high-quality employment opportunities for local people.
“Thanks to everyone who came to this event. We met some of our largest employers, heard about the support they need to grow. We shared our new Economic Growth Plan that’s designed to boost prosperity across the district and create more opportunities for our residents.
“We are focused on how we can work together, in partnership to attract investment, create high-quality jobs, and support an even more skilled workforce across the district.”
Cllr Karl Johnson
Leader of Wakefield Council
“It was great to see so many people at WX, and to share our vision for future economic growth with them.
“We’re committed to making it as easy as possible for businesses to invest and grow here by removing barriers and cutting unnecessary red tape. The Wakefield district is open for business, and we’re ready to work alongside any organisation looking to relocate or expand.”
Cllr Andrew Wakefield
Cabinet Member for Strategic Housing, Skills and Business Growth
The new Economic Growth Plan set outs priorities for supporting growth and investment. There is a particular focus on advanced manufacturing, logistics, and creative industries. As these sectors are expected to drive the district’s future success.
The event also outlined plans to support businesses and to help people to develop their skills at all stages of their careers, including through apprenticeships and on-the-job training.
Professor Sir Chris Husbands, Chair of the Wakefield Futures Commission, was unable to attend the event but recorded a special video update in which he said “ Wakefield has real assets, real ambition among residents, and a track record of weathering de-industrialisation better than many similar places.
“To close the gap between skills supply and the future economy, something new is needed. That’s why we recommended the Wakefield Futures Centre - a broker between employers and training providers. Working with employers to stimulate demand for higher-level skills and with training providers to change the skills supply.”
Wakefield Council’s new Economic Growth Plan can be seen in more detail at Wakefield Economic Growth Plan.
The Economic Growth Plan has been developed using insights and recommendations provided by the Wakefield Futures Commission.