People are being asked for their views on how its proposed mass transit system would best support economic growth and development across the region – including West Leeds.
The first two routes – from Leeds to Bradford and down to the White Rose Centre via Elland Road – are slated to be completed by the late 2030s, with the potential for further lines to be added in the future.
All five West Yorkshire local authorities have launched a consultation on a plan to ensure there is a co-ordinated approach to land use, growth, regeneration and transport decisions across local boundaries.
It will lead to the creation of a Spatial Development Framework to support the delivery of current and future phases of the Mass Transit programme.
Different route options for the Leeds to Bradford line through West Leeds.
It will form part of their statutory development plans for the scheme – the documents which set out a vision and a framework for the future development of their areas.
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin’s preferred approach is to focus new development around Mass Transit stops and hubs.
She says this will support new homes, jobs and services within easy walking distance of Mass Transit links. It will create a framework for coordinated investment focused where it brings the greatest benefit.
Mayor Brabin said: “Mass Transit – a vital part of our Weaver Network – has the potential to transform West Yorkshire.
“Our ambition is for a network that stretches across the whole region, so we need to ensure our plans are strategic, joined-up and made collaboratively.
“We want your feedback to help us build a Mass Transit system which delivers the maximum benefits for generations to come.”
The consultation comes after the Government made a new commitment to fund the scheme beyond 2032, subject to business case approval.
Building on this commitment and following an independent review, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority has developed an updated sequential timeline which aims to reduce risk and ensure the project is put firmly on the path for successful delivery.
The Spatial Development Framework consultation will not ask for feedback on routes, route alignment or things like depots and park and ride sites. These details will only be announced following the submission of key documents to the Government.
The Combined Authority is focused on the submitting the Strategic Outline Case later this year, a crucial stage that will set out the evidence for why Mass Transit is essential for West Yorkshire.
- You can respond to the consultation here.
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