‘Pivotal step’ made in city regeneration plans

A regeneration project is gathering momentum as a new partnership aims to transform Wakefield’s city centre.

Placemaking specialist Muse has signed a pre-development agreement with Wakefield Council to support the next stage of its long-term city centre regeneration plans. 

The move follows Muse’s appointment as the council’s strategic regeneration partner earlier this year. 

Officials say the partnership will now progress design development and site investigations to help bring the Wakefield Masterplan to life. 

They add that the vision includes creating more than 2500 homes, commercial spaces and mixed-use neighbourhoods, with improved public areas and transport links to boost jobs and investment.

Simon Dew, development director at Muse, said: “Signing this pre-development agreement with Wakefield Council marks a pivotal step in bringing our shared Masterplan vision for the city to life.

“By engaging at this early stage, we gain the flexibility to finetune design, progress site acquisition and delivery strategies whilst working closely with the council, Homes England and WYCA to accelerate progress and unlock funding as part of the Strategic Place Partnership. 

“This collaborative approach will ensure we can respond swiftly to changing market and community needs, delivering high quality, sustainable regeneration for Wakefield at pace.”

Councillor Michael Graham, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said: “Our latest step forward with Muse reinforces the scale of our ambition to revitalise Wakefield city centre.

“Together we will set out a clear plan for the delivery of new residential and commercial development in our city. 

“The agreement underpins our ambition to create inclusive, sustainable growth and maximise investment.

“Our partnership will help us continue to deliver change for our communities, create places we can all be proud of, and strengthen our local economy.”

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