[1] The ward is one of 21 in the Wakefield district, and has been held by Labour since the current boundaries were formed for the 2004 Council election.

The ward also includes the Cutsyke, Roundhill and Half Acres areas of Castleford.

[2] Like all wards in the Wakefield district, Altofts and Whitwood has 3 councillors, whom are elected on a 4-year-rota.

[4] The current councillors are Jo Hepworth and Jacquie Speight both of whom are Labour.

[5] There are only currently two councillors due to the resignation of Peter Box CBE who served as Leader of Wakefield Council for 21 years.