Region-wide consultation asks how best to maximise Mass Transit benefits

People, businesses and developers across West Yorkshire are being asked for their views on how its proposed Mass Transit system would best support economic growth and development across the region.

All five West Yorkshire local authorities have today (Thursday) 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 which will support the delivery of current and future phases of the Mass Transit programme.

Once adopted by the five West Yorkshire councils, it will form part of their statutory development plans – the documents which set out a vision and a framework for the future development of their areas.

Mass Transit has the potential to accelerate economic and housing growth, tackle congestion and unreliable journeys, and boost access to jobs and opportunities, while reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality – but only if plans are made purposefully and proactively around it.

The preferred approach, as laid out in the consultation, is to focus new development around Mass Transit stops and hubs. 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 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 alternative option - leaving everything to individual Local Plans - would risk less coordinated development, missed opportunities and weaker social, economic, and environmental outcomes. 

The consultation comes after the Government reaffirmed its commitment to West Yorkshire Mass Transit - and 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.