Public asked for views on future of Wakefield's Ridings Shopping Centre
The now Reform UK-run local council is reviewing plans to knock the centre down - first proposed under Labour
Wakefield Council has asked residents for their views on plans to demolish The Ridings Shopping Centre as part of regeneration plans for the city centre.
The local authority completed the purchase of the centre for just over £11m in May when the council was under the control of the previous Labour administration.
Senior councillors at the time said the acquisition paved the way for the 43-year-old mall to be knocked down to allow for a transformation of the city that includes building new homes, leisure facilities and event spaces over the next 15 years.
The scheme also involves demolishing four high-rise residential tower blocks – Manor House, Trinity House, Tudor House and Warren House – as part of the creation of a new Cathedral Quarter.
Labour lost control of the council days after the purchase when Reform UK won 58 out of 63 seats at the local elections.
The council’s new leader Karl Johnson announced last month that an “in-depth review” of plans for the city centre would take place before any schemes progressed.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 7, Coun Johnson said: “We’re keeping our promise to you to carefully consider the future of your city.
“We want to see real, meaningful regeneration and investment in the heart of Wakefield.
“I’m sure we can all agree that parts of our city really do need it.
“But it’s very important that we get this right and deliver a plan that works for our residents and our local businesses.
“We will always put Wakefield people first in everything we do.
“This is your city. So have your say in deciding what our future looks like.”
A council spokesperson said residents’ views were being sought on a number of issues “from retail and businesses, housing, public spaces, celebrating heritage, as well as culture and leisure options.”
Mathew Pinder, the council’s cabinet member for district regeneration and growth, said: “Wakefield has a huge amount of potential.
“It’s clear that regeneration is required to offer renewed economic opportunity for business, provide homes, and attract more people to our fantastic city.
“We want to make sure our city thrives for the current and next generation.
“The best way to do that is to make sure it is centred around your needs.
“That’s why the council’s new administration is asking for your views openly and transparently, as we promised we would.
“You make Wakefield, Wakefield. The views of everyone that lives and works here are vital to create a strong future for our city. So, take this opportunity to shape our future.”
The council said all proposals would be subject to public consultation and approval by the cabinet and planning officers.
People can have their say online at www.wakefield.gov.uk/haveyoursay from July 13 until August 2.
Drop-in events are also being held where people can give their views.
They are taking place in The Ridings Shopping Centre, Floor 3, in the unit opposite Esquires Coffee on:
Wednesday 15 July – 1pm – 4pm
Thursday 16 July – 10am – 7pm
Friday 17 July – 10am – 4pm
Saturday 18 July – 11am – 3pm
Tuesday 21 July – 1pm – 4pm
Wednesday 22 July – 10am – 1pm
Thursday 23 July – 10am – 7pm
Friday 24 July – 10:00am – 4pm
Saturday 25 July – 11am – 3pm
Tuesday 28 July – 10am – 4pm
Wednesday 29 July – 10am – 4pm