These 16 photos offer a glimpse at just some of these changes - and how different the district looks now that shoppers have returned to the high streets. What are some of the biggest changes you've noticed?
9. Getting ready
Former Featherstone Rovers played Craig Booth took over The Houghton pub in Castleford last year, and had just a few months open for business in the summer. Last month, he told the Express he was excited to reopen, and was working to prepare his beer garden and car park for outdoor visitors. Photo: Scott Merrylees
10. Welcome back
And it was a very different story on Monday, as diners and drinkers rushed to enjoy a pint - or a meal - once more. Cold weather couldn't stop these regulars from enjoying a drink at Harry's Bar in Wakefield. Photo: Scott Merrylees
11. Empty corridors
And things have also looked a little different in the district's schools, which had been closed to all but the children of key workers since Christmas. Images of empty corridors, like this one at Outwood Primary Academy Park Hill, became commonplace. Photo: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
12. Back to the classroom
In March, things began to look a little more familiar, as all students were once again allowed to return to school. But there were still some unusual sights. With schools expected to implement large-scale Covid testing schemes, disused classrooms and sports halls were transformed into testing units - such as at Outwood Academy City Fields. Photo: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images