Ambitious plans to enhance the Cathedral Precinct area of Wakefield are getting underway.
The overall plan would see the creation of a premier space for entertainment and festivals, new facades for buildings on Bread Street and opportunities for food and drink businesses to be developed over the next three years, if full funding is agreed.
The first stage of the work has begun with shops and businesses with front or rear-facing façades along Bread Street being offered grants to create new façades that would complement the Wakefield Cathedral conservation area.
The next stages of the plans are awaiting final confirmation of funding from the Towns Fund. If monies are granted, the second phase would see vacant buildings at the end of Bread Street removed in 2024 to recreate the early 19th-century vista of the Cathedral.
The third phase will be hugely transformational with a new flexible multi-use entertainment area with seating, lighting and trees created to become the premier outdoor venue in the city for hosting open-air events, festivals and other family entertainment.
Cllr Darren Byford, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “These plans will completely change the look and feel of Wakefield City Centre, the new building frontages with look amazing and will improve the look of our historic buildings.
“Once Government confirms the funding, we will be able to make a start in transforming the area. Putting the Cathedral Square and surrounding streets at the heart of the City Centre will give us the space to bring entertainment and events to Wakefield, giving residents, visitors and businesses more reasons to be here in our city.”
Chair of Wakefield High Street Task Force, Cormac Hamilton, said: “It is very positive to see this imaginative project is getting underway. It will bring people together and will enhance our city centre and strengthen our offer as a great place for residents, businesses and visitors to experience and to enjoy.”
When completed in 2025, it would link in with the pedestrianised southern section of Wood Street and Cross Square with its wider pavements and new gardens becoming a place that prioritises the environment for people.
In delivering the Wakefield Masterplan, Wakefield Council aims to grow the local economy, make the city more attractive to new businesses, inviting to visitors and create more jobs for local people.
