Plans Confirmed for New Social Housing Apartments in Wakefield City Centre

Exciting news is on the horizon for residents of Vico Homes in Wakefield, as plans have been confirmed for new apartments to be built right in the heart of the city. The development will provide over 200 modern and high-quality social housing units, ensuring that current residents have a place to stay in the city centre if they choose to do so.

New Apartments Planned

The new accommodation will be located on Kirkgate, where the former Wilko's store and surrounding area once stood. This area is set for a significant transformation, as the existing tower blocks—Manor, Trinity, Tudor, and Warren House—are earmarked for demolition to make way for these modern apartments. The construction is part of a larger 15-year vision to develop a vibrant Cathedral Quarter in Wakefield, aimed at enhancing the city with new leisure, living, and event spaces.

Commitment to Residents

Wakefield Council has expressed a strong commitment to supporting Vico Homes residents throughout this transition. Mark Lynam, the Corporate Director for Regeneration and Economic Growth at the council, stated,

“The Council’s commitment to supporting the Vico Homes customers living in the city centre has been our top priority from the start. Everyone who wants to stay will be able to.”

This assurance means that residents currently living in the four tower blocks will have the opportunity to remain in the city centre, a place many call home.

Timeline and Progress

The demolition of the former Wilko's building has already been completed, with the remaining buildings scheduled for demolition this summer. This rapid progress is a crucial step in paving the way for the new housing. The new apartments will be part of the first phase of the Cathedral Quarter project, which aims to create a sustainable future for Wakefield.

Community Consultation

As part of the planning process, an application for the new housing development is expected to be submitted in early 2027. This will follow consultations with Vico Homes’ customers and the wider community to ensure that their voices are heard in the planning stages. Sue Young, Executive Director of Homes and Growth for Vico Homes, expressed enthusiasm about the project, saying,

“We’re really pleased that Wakefield Council has secured a site for development of affordable homes, so close to our existing apartments. We’re looking forward to working with the Council to provide new, high-quality homes for our customers.”

Future of Kirkgate

Once completed, the new apartments will complement ongoing developments at the former Chantry House site. The plans for the Kirkgate area are not just about building new homes; they also aim to create a welcoming environment that encourages people to visit and enjoy the city. The Harewood Arms, one of the few remaining Edwardian pubs in the area, will be preserved as a landmark building, ensuring that some of the city's heritage remains intact amidst the changes.

A Gateway to the City

The site is strategically located as part of the Kirkgate Innovative Neighbourhood Gateway, making it an ideal spot for new housing that will help unlock access into the city. The Cathedral Quarter project is designed to attract more residents and visitors to the area, boosting the local economy and creating a lively community atmosphere.