Will Leeds (and the wider West Yorkshire region) ever get the tram\/mass transit scheme they desire? It had seemed that the planned network, which would initially link Leeds and fellow West Yorkshire city Bradford, was full systems go when funding was agreed with central government but now after review it has been officially delayed, but that delay has led some to question whether the scheme will actually go-ahead.<\/p>\n
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The plans which were being worked on would have seen trams running on the streets of West Yorkshire in the early 2030s, but the government review which has taken place has now asked a more through approach into the scheme and now it looks like the late 2030s before the system will start running.<\/p>\n
Whilst the news of the delay in the project (which is still very much at the early planning stage) will be disappointing for all those who have put time and effort into developing the scheme, Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin has been putting a positive spin on this latest update.<\/p>\n
Ms Brabin said: \u201cWe are clear that Mass Transit will have a transformational impact on the region and the UK\u2019s economy and I welcome the Government\u2019s commitment to ensuring the best possible outcome for the people of West Yorkshire.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile the new timeline helps offer certainty for the scheme, I am also pleased that Ministers have committed to working with us to cut red tape and put tracks on the ground as quickly as possible.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs part of our Weaver Network, Mass Transit is vital for us to create a better-connected and greener West Yorkshire that works for all.\u201d<\/p>\n
The delay has been caused by an independent review \u2013 said to be normal for a project of this scale \u2013 which has recommended a robust, sequential timeline. This timeline aims to reduce risks and ensure the project is put firmly on the path for successful delivery.<\/p>\n
When the Combined Authority were originally planning the project they had hoped to work on the business case and planning process at the same time. However, the main outcome of the review is that this should not happen and so now work on planning will take place later in the programme, hence why there will be a delay in the final project being completed.<\/p>\n
In another positive development the Government is also considering adding the project onto the Government\u2019s Major Projects Portfolio, which should further bolster the scheme\u2019s standing as an important national infrastructure priority. This would provide access to further expertise and support for the scheme, while also looking at other ways to cut red tape and accelerate the programme.<\/p>\n
Lord Hendy, Rail Minister, said: \u201cMass Transit has the power to transform West Yorkshire \u2013 boosting connectivity and unlocking economic growth across the region. That’s why I’m delighted to reaffirm that the Government fully supports the Mayor\u2019s ambition\u2019s to deliver this hugely important scheme.<\/p>\n
“We are pleased that WYCA are taking a robust approach to planning the schedule for the scheme, based on the tried and tested approach for delivering major infrastructure. \u00a0By building on these foundations the Mayor is in a strong position to deliver a world-class transport system that will serve West Yorkshire for generations to come.”<\/p>\n
Next steps for the project will see a summary of the independent review and the Combined Authority\u2019s response will be published to the Combined Authority at its next meeting on 22nd<\/sup> January 2026. Then later on next year the Strategic Outline Case will be submitted. Previously committed funding remains available for the scheme.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Will Leeds (and the wider West Yorkshire region) ever get the tram\/mass transit scheme they desire? It had seemed that the planned network, which would initially link Leeds and fellow West Yorkshire city Bradford, was full systems go when funding … Continue reading