By Clare Elliott, Service Director for Economic Growth and Skills, Wakefield Council

As I sit down to pen this blog, I am filled with a sense of pride and excitement. As a born and bred resident of Wakefield and the Service Director for Economic Growth and Skills at Wakefield Council, I have witnessed first hand the transformation and untapped potential of our district. This piece, part of the UKREiiF Hidden Gems series, aims to shed light on Wakefield, a place often overlooked yet brimming with opportunities for investment and development.

Wakefield’s Unique Selling Points

Geographical Advantage: Wakefield’s strategic location is one of its strongest assets. We are incredibly close to Leeds, a mere 10-minute train journey away, and approximately an hour and 45 minutes from London. This exceptional connectivity positions Wakefield as an ideal location for businesses seeking proximity to major urban centres without the associated costs.

Economic Agility: Unlike larger cities, Wakefield’s smaller scale allows for nimbleness and quick decision-making. This agility is crucial for investors and developers who value efficiency and direct access to local authority decision-makers.

Affordability: In Wakefield, land values and asset costs are significantly lower than in neighbouring cities like Leeds. This affordability, combined with our proximity to major hubs, makes Wakefield an attractive destination for a diverse range of businesses.

Wakefield’s Industrial and Cultural Landscape

Wakefield’s industrial legacy has evolved into a robust and proud local identity. This historical backdrop, coupled with strong cultural assets like the Hepworth Gallery and the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, provides a unique blend of industrial heritage and cultural richness. These internationally recognised venues not only enhance our cultural profile but also attract significant tourism and investment.

Business Environment and Infrastructure

Wakefield’s business environment is dynamic and supported by excellent infrastructure. We are located at the intersection of major motorways (A1, M1, and M62), ensuring easy access to the rest of the UK. Our local plan, being considered for approval in January 2024, includes 627 hectares of employment land, including 319 hectares of newly allocated land in strategic locations, highlighting our commitment to fostering business growth. Significant projects linked to renewable energy and advanced manufacturing parks are underway, underscoring our forward-thinking approach.

Housing and Development

Our commitment to growth is evident in our housing strategy. The new local plan identifies the development of 9700 homes, reflecting our vision of a thriving residential community. Our topography and decision-making favour development, balancing environmental concerns with the need for economic growth.

Political Stability and Vision

Wakefield’s political landscape is characterised by stability and continuity. This consistency in leadership and vision makes Wakefield particularly attractive to commercial and residential developers.

The people of Wakefield

At the heart of Wakefield’s success is its people. We boast an educated and ready workforce, with strong ties to international brands like Haribo and Coca-Cola. Despite not having a university, initiatives with local colleges are paving the way for higher education developments. We actively work with businesses to ensure a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of incoming and existing companies.

Sector Development and Community Integration

Wakefield is rapidly becoming a hub for the creative and digital sectors, supported by significant funding and investment. Our health and social care workforce is one of the largest employers in the district. We are dedicated to developing these sectors, ensuring that local businesses are integral to our economic ecosystem.

Looking Forward: Wakefield’s Vision for the Future

As we approach UKREiiF 2024, our focus is on showcasing Wakefield’s readiness for development. With £100 million of government funding, we are poised for significant regeneration without the need for match funding. This investment will transform our city and town centres, making Wakefield an even more attractive proposition for investors and developers.

A Personal Invitation to UKREiiF 2024

As we approach UKREiiF 2024, I extend a personal invitation to investors, developers, and all interested parties to join us at this remarkable event. It’s an opportunity not only to discover the immense potential that Wakefield has to offer but also to engage directly with the visionaries and decision-makers driving our city’s growth.

At UKREiiF 2024, we will showcase the innovative projects, initiatives, and investment opportunities that are shaping the future of Wakefield. It will be a platform for meaningful connections, discussions, and the beginning of fruitful partnerships.

I am particularly excited about the prospect of meeting with potential investors and developers who are as passionate about urban development and economic growth as we are in Wakefield. Together, we can explore the potential for collaboration, share insights, and lay the groundwork for a prosperous future.

Let’s make UKREiiF 2024 a landmark event in the history of Wakefield’s development. I look forward to meeting you there, sharing our story, and exploring how we can work together to unlock the full potential of this remarkable city.