Plans to revitalise Wakefield’s The Ridings shopping centre have received approval. The project will see 22 retail units upgraded, focusing primarily on those along All Saints Walk, a key link between the centre’s eastern and western sections.
The renovation will involve installing new cladding, repainting concrete panels, and adding black windows to create a more modern, cohesive appearance. These changes aim to address the outdated and mismatched storefronts, many of which are currently vacant. The goal is to attract new businesses to the underperforming areas of the shopping centre.
The proposed upgrades are expected to enhance the centre’s aesthetic appeal and foster a more vibrant retail environment. The development plans highlight a commitment to using high-quality materials that blend well with the existing structure and local streetscape.
Previously, Wakefield Council had considered purchasing The Ridings as part of a broader regeneration effort but opted against it in December 2022 due to financial constraints. Instead, the council chose to seek a third-party buyer. The centre was acquired by Zahid Iqbal in March 2023, marking a new phase for the shopping centre’s redevelopment.
