250 jobs to be created as work starts on new Wakefield retail scheme

Work is now underway on the new Aldi-anchored retail development at Snowhill, which will bring 250 new jobs to Wakefield.

Developer Kier Property has appointed Henry Boot Construction to design and build eight mixed-use units of different sizes, totalling 46,600sq ft.

The scheme will comprise an Aldi foodstore, five further retail units and two drive-through outlets, one of which has been pre-let to McDonalds.

The development will also provide parking for 250 cars.

Enabling works will include the stabilisation of old mine workings through grouting and a significant 278 highways works package, as well as the creation of a new major roundabout on the A650.

Dan Hyde, Kier Property’s senior development manager, commented: “We have had strong interest in the remaining retail units and it’s good to see construction work starting this month as scheduled. This great scheme will bring much-needed investment and jobs into Wakefield and will become a key shopping location for the local community and surrounding area.”

Steve Green, contracts manager for Henry Boot Construction, added: “We are delighted to have been appointed to carry out the construction of the new retail park at Snowhill. Kier Property is a new client for us, and we are looking forward to building excellent relationships with them and their representatives during the course of this project.”

The new retail park will transform a vacant six acre site on the A650, which connects Wakefield with the M1, and sits adjacent to Paragon Business Park.

The new park forms part of the wider Snowhill masterplan, which focuses on the long-term sustainable regeneration of the area.

Completion is planned for Easter 2017.