This is how you can see Wakefield Council's 'masterplan' for Pontefract and have your say

The ‘Pontefract Masterplan’ aims to improve links between key areas in the town, such as the town centre, castle, racecourse and the new leisure hub in construction at Pontefract Park.

The masterplan will also identify other areas for improvement in the town and will help to guide the council’s plans for Pontefract for many years to come.

The council carried out an initial public consultation earlier this year, and the feedback from that has been used to draft these proposals. #

The council is now asking local residents, businesses and interested parties to have their say on the emerging proposals to help shape the future of the town.

Coun Darren Byford, Wakefield Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said: "Despite the challenges of the recent months, we’ve been working hard to draft this masterplan using the feedback we’ve already received. I am pleased that we can now bring our developed ideas back to the public and would encourage everyone to get involved and help us to test our thinking.

“The input of the people who live in, work in and visit the town is crucial if we are to make the right choices to help secure the success of Pontefract for the future.

“People can take part online and even join in webinars from the comfort of their own home to let us know their thoughts. I encourage as many people as possible to take part and help shape the future of the town.”

The consultation launches Monday, July 6, and closes on Monday, August 3 at www.wakefield.gov.uk/ponteplan.

Paul Cartwright, Chairman of Pontefract Civic Society, said: “Our relationship in working for Pontefract which we have developed over a number of years is now firmly embedded, and we are pleased to have collaborated with Wakefield Council throughout the process of creating the Pontefract Masterplan.

“This is a significant opportunity for residents and businesses to engage with the long-term Masterplan covering the immediate town centre, particularly the key gateways.”

The proposals and questionnaire are available on the council website. Those taking part will also be able to place virtual markers on a map and add comments for specific areas of the town

People can also take part in webinars throughout the consultation period, hosted by the Council’s Masterplan consultants – Nash Partnership.

The sessions below will be available on a first-come-first-served basis and can be booked by sending the date of your preferred session through to [email protected]. Extra dates may be released if demand is high.

· Thursday 16 July – 5pm to 7pm – session for businesses only

· Friday 24 July – 10am to 12 midday

· Wednesday 29 July – 5pm to 7pm

For more information visit www.wakefield.gov.uk/ponteplan