Hospitality businesses across Wakefield city centre will now be able to extend their outdoor trading hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays – thanks in part to Wakefield BID’s ongoing lobbying and partnership work with Wakefield Council.
The new policy, approved by the Council this week, allows licensed premises to operate their outdoor seating areas until 12am, giving bars, restaurants and cafes more flexibility during peak times. The move responds directly to requests from Wakefield BID members, and is another example of how the BID is delivering tangible change for local businesses.
Thomas Wales, Chief Executive of Wakefield BID, said:
“This is a really positive step forward for Wakefield. Extending outdoor trading hours gives our hospitality businesses the flexibility they’ve been asking for and helps create a more sociable, welcoming city centre in the evenings.
It’s a small change with a big impact – supporting jobs, boosting business, and helping Wakefield feel alive after dark. Wakefield BID pushed for this because it’s what our members needed, and we’re proud to have worked closely with the Council to make it happen. It’s another example of how we’re backing our city and delivering results for the businesses we represent.”
Cllr Daniel Wilton, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, added:
“Supporting our local businesses and high streets to thrive is one of our top priorities. Some of our smaller hospitality venues in particular benefit from having extra outside space, and allowing that to be open for longer will help to boost the local nighttime economy.”
Cllr Jack Hemingway, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, also welcomed the change:
“This is extremely welcome news, and something that our nighttime economy and hospitality venues have been asking for. It’s one of the many ways we’re continuing to support local businesses and help our high streets prosper.”
The changes come into effect immediately and will be reviewed in June 2026. Wakefield BID will continue to work with members to ensure they’re making the most of this opportunity. If you need support with pavement licensing, marketing your evening offer, or have further feedback on trading restrictions, get in touch with the Wakefield BID team.
This is just one of many examples of how being part of Wakefield BID gives your business a stronger voice and real influence. Together, we’re making Wakefield a better place to do business – day and night.
