The council is set to publish a new Economic Growth Plan next week that aims to position Wakefield as “open for business” and attract fresh investment to the district.
What the plan promises
The strategy, which will be shared at an event at Wakefield Exchange, sets out how the council hopes to support local firms, improve skills within the workforce and make the most of strengths in sectors such as manufacturing and the creative industries. The council says the plan is intended to encourage higher-quality jobs and to help people remain and succeed locally.
- Support for local businesses through targeted interventions and engagement;
- Skills improvement to match local people to better-paid roles;
- Promotion of key sectors including manufacturing and creative industries to attract investment.
Council leader: Wakefield wants investment and local opportunity
Leader of Wakefield Council, Cllr Karl Johnson, said the plan reflects the council’s ambition “for Wakefield to be the best place to do business in the North of England.” He urged businesses and residents to take part in the rollout and discussions.
"Our ambition is for Wakefield to be the best place to do business in the North of England. We want to see investment bringing more high-quality jobs to Wakefield," Cllr Karl Johnson said.
The council is inviting existing investors, local firms and residents to engage with the plan, describing the launch as an opportunity to "connect, share insights, and join the conversation that’s shaping our local economy."
Implications for local people and firms
For Wakefield residents the plan aims to mean more local employment options and pathways to higher-paid roles, while firms should see increased council support and clearer promotion of the district’s competitive strengths. The council will be judged on whether the plan translates into tangible business growth and sustained job creation.
| Priority | Focus |
|---|---|
| Business support | Advice, networks and backing for expansion |
| Skills | Training and local recruitment pathways |
| Sector promotion | Manufacturing and creative industries highlighted |
Details on funding, timelines and specific measures will emerge at next week’s launch at Wakefield Exchange. The council’s message is clear: it wants Wakefield to be a more attractive place for businesses to start, grow and employ local people.
