Wakefield is set to see a transformation in its city centre, with work now underway to develop 50 new affordable homes on the former Chantry House site. The project, led by Wakefield District Housing (WDH) in partnership with Wakefield Council, will bring a mix of 26 townhouses and 24 apartments, offering both affordable rent and shared ownership options.
This ambitious development aims to create vibrant new communities and boost the local economy. The homes will be built by Caddick Construction, with Caddick Civil Engineering also involved in delivering the necessary groundworks. These new homes are expected to provide high-quality, affordable living spaces for local residents and help address the growing demand for housing in Wakefield.
A Step Forward for Wakefield’s Regeneration
Cllr Michael Graham, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “Good quality housing is the foundation for economic growth and the priority is for Wakefield to have a high-quality housing offer that meets our residents’ needs. The Chantry House site is part of our plans to deliver more, better and affordable homes in our district. It is so important to us to create and provide places for people to live and be proud to call home.”
He went on to highlight the significant impact the project will have on Wakefield’s high street and local businesses: “We want to encourage people to come and live and work in Wakefield. Creating vibrant communities will provide a real boost to our local businesses and high street. The Kirkgate area is a key gateway into the city centre, and this is the next vital step in our regeneration plans.”
Bringing New Life to the City Centre
Thomas Wales, Chief Executive of Wakefield BID, also welcomed the development. He commented, “The transformation of the Chantry House site is an exciting milestone in Wakefield’s ongoing regeneration. With more people living in the city centre, we’re sure to see an increase in footfall to local businesses and a stronger, more vibrant community. Wakefield BID is always committed to supporting initiatives that enhance the city’s appeal, and this new housing project will make a real difference to the city’s growth and prosperity.”
Supporting Local Communities
Joel Owen, Service Director for Development at WDH, spoke about the importance of the project in terms of community investment: “We’re excited to be working in partnership with Wakefield Council to transform the centre of Wakefield and provide much-needed high-quality affordable homes. Investing in our communities is a key priority for WDH, and by transforming the former Chantry House site, we’re breathing new life into the city centre, creating a new, vibrant community and enabling better futures for our customers.”
The development is set to complement other ongoing housing projects, including the transformation of the former police station on Wood Street and new mews-style homes on the site of the former Rishworth Street Car Park.
The project will re-use currently vacant land and contribute to the proposed Kirkgate Gateway, supporting Wakefield’s wider regeneration plans to make the city a more culturally vibrant place to live, work, and play.
Wakefield BID looks forward to seeing the continued growth of the city centre and the positive impact these new homes will have on local businesses and the community as a whole.
