Plans for a new tram system connecting Leeds and Bradford have been announced by West Yorkshire leaders. As the largest city in Western Europe without a mass transit system, it would be a welcome addition, if approved by the government.
If approved it could start in the next four years in around 2028. The plans were announced by West Yorkshire Mayor, Tracy Brabin and other local leaders. The tram system hopes to connect towns and cities across the region starting with the new Leeds lines in Leeds and Bradford.
The Leeds line would run between Harehills and South Leeds with stops at St James Hospital, Leeds city centre, Elland Road and White Rose Shopping Centre. And, the Bradford Line is proposed to start at Forster Sqaure train station and travel through the southern gateway for the city with stops at the new Bradford train station onto Leeds city centre.
The exact routes have not been confirmed yet, and will be confirmed a public consultation in summer 2024. Mayor Tracy Brabin said: “This will be transformational for the North, helping our communities to thrive and our economy to flourish – benefitting generations to come with greater opportunity and prosperity.”
She continued: “We know that mass transit systems have successfully helped to regenerate areas right across the country by boosting connectivity, opportunity and prosperity – and we will work tirelessly to make sure that happens here in West Yorkshire.”
The first phase will see the document that outlines the new transport for Leeds and Bradford approved by West Yorkshire Combined Authority members on Thursday 14th March 2024 – before being sent to the government for approval.
Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council said: “Mass transit will transform transport across our city and the wider region, helping to boost our economy and bringing our communities within easier reach of jobs and leisure opportunities,”
He continued: “This is an important step forward in delivering mass transit, but there is still much to do and we are committed to working with the Combined Authority and our partners so this can be achieved for the benefit of people across West Yorkshire.”
Leader of Bradford Council Susan Hinchcliffe said: “West Yorkshire is currently the biggest region in the country without a mass transit system. These tram proposals are part of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for comprehensive new transport links, which will undoubtedly enhance people’s lives.
“We are already making good progress on developing plans for better rail transport nationally for Bradford, and this exciting new mass transit system supports our aim to connect Bradford more widely across West Yorkshire and also to connect the two Bradford city centre stations.”
We look forward to hearing similar transport new for the East, and North regions of Yorkshire, which have seen countless bus routes cancelled limiting locals ability to visit certain areas via public transport.Read More: How Sheffield’s ‘Women Of Steel’ Shaped A New Future For Women In Yorkshire
