Police are investigating online footage that appears to show a group of men inside Wakefield’s County Hall, councillors were told at a meeting this week.
Videos show intruders in council rooms and tower
The material, brought to the attention of West Yorkshire Police by the council, includes a clip lasting about 24 minutes which appears to show the men walking through the council chamber, former committee rooms and staff areas. At one point one of the individuals is seen climbing a ladder up to the bell tower.
“The fact that it’s open like that is insane to me. So hopefully the security teams get on that, lock it down, because it’s just mad.”
The footage also contains claims from one of the group that the building had been "left and abandoned" by the authority. Councillors rejected that suggestion during the meeting and said the site remains in use.
Councillors raise concerns about how entry was gained
During the corporate and resources overview and scrutiny committee meeting, Reform UK councillor Chad Thomas asked senior members how the men managed to enter the Grade I‑listed structure and whether round‑the‑clock security was in place. He warned the breach could have put public funds and a historic asset at risk.
The council’s deputy leader told members the group claimed to have gained access through an open window so had not forced entry. He said the matter has been reported to West Yorkshire Police and that the authority has now instigated 24‑7 security at the site.
Repairs already planned amid concerns over the roof
Senior councillors recently agreed to proceed with major repair work to County Hall after surveyors raised safety concerns. The council approved plans to replace the roof and carry out other remedial works at a cost of £14m, following warnings that ceilings had been weakened by leaks and parts of the structure were at risk.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Video length | About 24 minutes |
| Security response | Reported to police; 24‑7 security now in place |
| Planned repairs | Roof replacement and repairs – £14m |
Local impact and next steps
The incident adds pressure on the authority to protect a listed building that houses civic functions and is part of Wakefield’s heritage. The council has not said whether any internal areas remain closed while investigations continue, nor whether the footage has revealed any damage or removed items.
- West Yorkshire Police have been notified and are conducting inquiries.
- The council says County Hall remains in use despite the intruders’ claims.
- Enhanced security measures have been introduced at the site.
Residents and groups concerned about access to heritage sites and public buildings may seek reassurance about how such properties are monitored while major repair programmes are underway. The council’s recent decision to fund substantial restoration work underlines both the scale of the maintenance challenge and the value placed on the building.
Further updates are expected as the police investigation progresses and the council provides more detail on protective measures and the timetable for the planned repairs.
