Ice cream parlour scoops up new unit in Wakefield regeneration scheme

A Yorkshire ice cream parlour is set to join a mixed-use development in the heart of West Yorkshire.

Rassam’s Creamery has taken Unit 7 at Merchant Gate in the centre of Wakefield for its new outlet.

The Sheffield-founded ice cream parlour is expanding its reach across the region with the new outlet, which is part of the regeneration project led by The English Cities Fund, a strategic joint venture between Muse Developments, Legal & General and Homes England, working collaboratively with Wakefield Council and Network Rail.

Comprising 5,468 sq ft, the outlet is currently undergoing a full-fit out before its planned opening at the end of the year.

Rassam Alyafai, owner of Rassam’s Creamery, commented: “It gives me great pleasure to announce the opening of my new restaurant at Merchant Gate.

“Since launching in Sheffield in 2012, Rassam’s has become famous in Yorkshire.

“This unit at Merchant Gate is massive and I believe it will be the largest dessert restaurant in the UK, along our restaurant at Sheffield.”

James Scott, development director at The English Cities Fund, added: “Bringing Rassam’s to Merchant Gate highlights its commitment to our development, as well as being a ringing endorsement of what we’ve achieved here.

“Rassam’s is an innovative product that drives both economic and social prosperity, which is so important in these unprecedented times.

“This unit was formerly occupied by Anytime Fitness and a recent change of use planning application has been secured for restaurant/leisure use, which has enabled Rassam’s to move in.”