Changes to the Registration Service
Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Wakefield Council is relocating Registration Service appointments in Pontefract from Pontefract Town Hall to the town’s library.
From 16 November, Pontefract Library will be the place for residents to go for their booked appointment to register a birth, death, or for a notice of marriage or civil partnership, instead of Pontefract Town Hall. There will be no change to the date or time of any existing appointments.
The change will not affect Marriage and Civil Partnership ceremonies - they will continue at Pontefract Town Hall.
“We’re improving the Registration Service to make it more efficient and effective for residents. Pontefract Library is the ideal place for people to come for these appointments it’s well located and is in the heart of the community.”
Cllr Julian Carter
Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services
To find out more about services that don’t require an appointment use the links below:
• Ordering a copy of a certificate - Ordering a certificate - Wakefield Council
• Booking a ceremony - Planning your marriage ceremony - Wakefield Council
• General enquiry - wakefieldregistrars@wakefield.gov.uk
Anyone who is unable to use the online service can ring 0345 485 2888 or visit Pontefract Library, where staff can provide assistance. Where a query requires specialist advice or further support from the Registration Service, details can be taken and passed on for a member of the team to make contact.
The Registration Service is also reminding new parents that from 9 November 2026, everyone attending a birth registration or re-registration appointment must bring acceptable identification (ID).
A full list of accepted ID documents can be found here: https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/births-marriages-and-deaths/register-a-birth
Anyone with questions can ring 0345 485 2888 or email wakefieldregistrars@wakefield.gov.uk.