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Rail strategy and investment in West Yorkshire

West Yorkshire Combined Authority is leading a long-term strategy to transform rail across our region, investing in new stations, cleaner trains and better connections so that everyone can access the rail network they deserve.

West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads rail policy and strategy for our region. Our Rail Strategy, approved in January 2024, sets out how we will improve connections, decarbonise the network and deliver new stations, with a clear plan to build a railway fit for the 21st century.

It's aligned with our ambition to deliver the Weaver Network, an integrated, multi modal transport network with a better more seamless customer experience.

West Yorkshire, in particular Leeds station, sits at the very heart of the North's rail network. Therefore it’s crucial to invest in our railway infrastructure, delivering the support it has needed for decades. We are working with Government and rail operators to make the investment this network needs, improving capacity, accessibility and sustainability for the hundreds of thousands of people who depend on it every day.

You can read more about our Rail Strategy and the supporting policy documents in full below.

Platform and tracks of Leeds train station

Increasing capacity and connectivity

In the short term, we’re increasing station capacity at Leeds Railway Station. Over time, we will need major investment in our rail network, including East Coast Main Line, Northern Powerhouse Rail Bradford-Huddersfield link, Leeds-Sheffield and Leeds-Hull electrification.

New train stations and better services

We’re improving accessibility and focusing on active travel in the here and now.

We are working on a programme of new rail stations including Elland, White Rose and Leeds Bradford Airport. Over the next 5-10 years, we’re also introducing whole-industry smart ticketing programmes.

Decarbonisation and electrification

As part of our long and short-term decarbonisation plans, we continue to support TransPennine Route Upgrade and are replacing our fleets with better and greener trains. The electrification of Leeds - Bradford and Calder Valley lines are our priorities.

TransPennine Express train at Leeds rail station

Rail freight and local logistics

We support the increasing freight capacity on TransPennine route and development of local freight interchange facilities.

Our full rail strategy and documents

Access the links below for all documents about our rail strategy, approved in January 2024.

Yorkshire's Integrated Plan for Rail

Yorkshire's Plan for Rail is our credible and affordable plan for the wider Yorkshire rail network in partnership with both North and South Yorkshire mayors. From new and improved stations to faster and more frequent services, it outlines how we can work together with Government to deliver a rail network across the whole of Yorkshire that is fit for the 21st Century.   

View Yorkshire's Plan for Rail