Major £43m West Yorkshire town regeneration push takes another step as developer appointed
Council appoints developer to bring major regeneration scheme forward
Wakefield Council has appointed a developer to help bring forward major regeneration schemes in Castleford.
The local authority said Muse had been selected to help deliver long-awaited projects earmarked for the town.
Senior councillors last month voted in favour of appointing a new strategic regeneration partner (SRP), stating the move would end the “dither and delay” in unlocking the town’s economic potential.
A number of projects are already underway in Castleford after the council secured £23m of government Town Deal funding in 2019. The town has been awarded a further £20m through the Government’s Pride in Place programme.
Schemes include a major revamp of the town centre and creating a new public park next to the river Aire.
The town has also been designated as a housing zone with a focus on residential development at key sites close to the river.
Matthew Pinder, the council’s cabinet member for district regeneration and regional growth, said: “This is an important next step in our plans for Castleford and, most importantly, for the people who live here.
“We’re determined to deliver the change that Castleford residents and businesses have been waiting for.
“We want to be ambitious – our aim is not just to improve what we already have, but to attract new investment that will unlock bigger and better opportunities.
“That’s how we will bring lasting benefits to the community and build a town everyone can be proud of.”
In January 2025, the council’s former Labour administration launched a similar scheme in Wakefield by appointing Muse to help deliver a new masterplan city for centre.
The company had over 40 years’ experience in delivering large scale projects in other cities including Birmingham, London, Leeds and Manchester.
Coun Pinder added: “This partnership provides us with the additional expertise we need to deliver the kind of improvements residents and businesses want to see.
“It will help us appeal to investors, enhance the town centre, and create more opportunities for local people.
“Local residents and businesses will have the chance to tell us about things they’d like to see included in future regeneration projects.
“Feedback will help the council and Muse shape exciting new proposals that will deliver for everyone who lives, works in or visits the town.”
Simon Dew, Muse managing director for Yorkshire and North East, said: “Castleford is a town with a strong identity, rich heritage and proud community, and we’re delighted to be working with Wakefield Council to help shape its next chapter.
“By combining the council’s local knowledge and ambition with our placemaking experience, we can create a shared vision that reflects what matters most to local people.
“There is already real momentum behind the town, with significant investment being made and clear goals for the future.
“Our role is to build on those foundations and work alongside the council, residents and local businesses to shape a town that is healthier, better connected and full of opportunities for people to live, work and spend time.”