Wakefield was one of Yorkshire Forward's pilot renaissance towns. An initial Strategic Development Framework was prepared by the town team and advisors Koetter Kim. The framework discusses high-quality design, opportunities for major development projects and increased pedestrian access, all contained within a green boulevard - an ‘emerald ring’.

The delivery of the masterplan is based on three major projects:

• Westgate: a development that includes: offices; leisure; smaller shops; hotel; restaurants; and a new or renewed railway station.
• Marshway: a development of shopping areas, housing, and public buildings including a new library and market hall.
• Waterfront: a development for businesses, with some leisure, housing and tourism buildings, including a new creative arts space - Hepworth Gallery.

It is expected that around £400m will be invested into Wakefield’s renaissance, with about £13.5m coming through Yorkshire Forward’s Renaissance Towns Programme.