Plans lodged for new city centre events square

Plans have been submitted for the creation of an events and festival square in Wakefield

A number of buildings in Wakefield could be demolished to make way for a new public events space envisioned to become the "new heart of the city centre".

The scheme, titled the Cathedral Square project, would see the creation of a 15, 607 sq ft (450 sq m) social and cultural hub next to the city's cathedral.

If approved, work could start next summer, with the new square set for completion in 2026.

The long-awaited development forms part of a series of major regeneration projects aimed at transforming the city centre after the council was awarded £24.9m of government funding in 2019.

Wakefield Council leader Denise Jeffery said: “We are on the cusp of seeing significant change that will start the transformation of our city centre into a thriving and culturally vibrant place.

“Lots of hard work has been happening behind the scenes to bring projects like Cathedral Square to life."

The new square would also offer residents a place to come together, the council said

She said the scheme would boost the local economy by attracting more people and new businesses into the city centre amid changing shopping habits.

It is hoped it would also bring more entertainment and events to the city, the Local Democracy Service reports.

Under the plans, two commercial buildings on either side of Bread Street, one of the city's oldest streets, will be demolished.

The new square would comprise two sections which would feature a large terrace with a stage, children's play areas, benches and an open paved area.

Michael Graham, the council’s cabinet member for regeneration and economic growth, said: “It’s clear that there is a need for connection and community, and opportunities for people to come together in greener spaces.

“We want this to be the heart of our city centre.

"It will be surrounded by greenery, and we hope it will feel like a calm, relaxing space for people while shopping, working, visiting, or living in Wakefield."

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