The diocese is led by the Anglican Bishop of Leeds and has three cathedrals of equal status: Ripon, Wakefield, and Bradford.

The five areas (and bishops) suggested were based on considerations including civic communities and established foci of local church activity.

Following extensive consultation with the three dioceses and other interested parties, the Commission issued a second report[9] and Draft Reorganisation Scheme[10] in October 2011.

The draft scheme featured a few alterations from the initial report: It was announced on 28 September 2012 that the commission had resolved, having considered all responses to its public consultation, to go ahead with the draft scheme, which would be discussed and voted upon at the three diocesan synods.

[11] The existing diocesan synods of the dioceses of Bradford, of Ripon and Leeds and of Wakefield voted on the proposed scheme on 2 March 2013.

[13] On 9 May 2013, the archbishop announced that he had instructed the chair of the Dioceses Commission to set the Draft Scheme before General Synod for consideration (i.e. debate and voting.

[20] The area bishopric vacant since Helen-Ann Hartley's translation to Newcastle on 3 February 2023.

[20] On 26 August 2014, it was announced that Toby Howarth was to become the first area bishop of Bradford; his consecration was held on 17 October.

[20] On 26 August 2014, it was announced that Jonathan Gibbs was to become the first area bishop of Huddersfield; his consecration was held on 17 October.

[27] On 14 March 2018, the see was translated from Richmond to Kirkstall (in Leeds) by Order in Council.

[28] Alternative episcopal oversight (for petitioning parishes in the diocese who reject the ministry of priests or bishops who are women) in the diocese was provided by Tony Robinson, area Bishop of Wakefield,[29] until he retired in 2024.