A new region-wide consultation has been launched in West Yorkshire which is asking how the proposed (and delayed) Mass Transit system would best support economic growth and development. The consultation is asking people, businesses and developers their views with all five West Yorkshire local authorities launching at the same time to ensure there is a co-ordinated approach to land use, growth, regeneration and transport decisions.
The results of the consultation will lead to the creation of a Spatial Development Framework which will support the delivery of current and future phases of the Mass Transit programme. When adopted by local authorities, it will form part of their statutory development plans.
Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy 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 Spatial Development Framework consultation will not be asking specifics about the Mass Transit scheme, such as routes, route alignment or things like depots and park and ride sites. It is concerned with ensuring that there is coordinated development surrounding the route, rather than leaving it to individual local plans which could lead to missed opportunities and weaker social, economic and environmental outcomes.
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority are currently focused on the submission of the Strategic Outline Case for the Mass Transit system later this year. The original plans took a hit late last year when the government requested a delay, although the latest press release is keen to confirm that the government remain committed and that they will fund it beyond 2032, subject to approval of the business case.