Tens of millions being invested as region prepares for Weaver Network buses

Tens of millions of pounds will be invested into transport improvements across West Yorkshire as the region prepares for the arrival of the new Weaver Network buses next year.

Distinctive green Weaver buses are on their way to the region’s roads as Mayor Tracy Brabin brings public transport back under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years. Under the new franchised system, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority will manage bus routes, frequencies, fares and standards—ensuring passengers’ needs, not profits, are at the heart of decision making.

Significant upgrades are already underway across the region. The transformation of Heckmondwike Bus Station is nearing completion, with Dewsbury due to reopen to passengers in Autumn following a major upgrade.

The Combined Authority is expected to give final approval next week for a £28 million refurbishment of Huddersfield Bus Station and plans for a new £60 million, zero‑emission‑ready bus depot in Wakefield are also set to move forward.

Further investment is expected to be signed off for key infrastructure projects, including improvements to bus access on Woodhouse Lane in Leeds and Wakefield Road in Bradford. Improvements to bus lanes and stops on Beckett Street in Leeds will also boost access to St James’ Hospital.

In recent years, the Combined Authority has delivered major improvements to bus priority infrastructure such as new bus lanes, bus gates and traffic light priority, helping deliver faster and more reliable journeys.

Over £53 million has also been invested in modernising bus stations across West Yorkshire, including Halifax, which opened in 2024.

The Combined Authority is conducting a procurement exercise with operators who hope to run the buses under the Weaver Network banner. An update on this process will be given at its next meeting on March 12.

It can also be revealed today that disabled pass holders across West Yorkshire will be able to travel for free at any time of day when the first Weaver Network buses hit the road - subject to approval at the Combined Authority meeting. Currently, disabled and companion pass holders must purchase a full fare before 9.30am on weekdays.

The change will be introduced in Wakefield from May this year, allowing the Combined Authority to test its impact ahead of a region-wide roll-out.

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said:

“Having a disability should not limit your ability to access work. You asked and we have listened - allowing disabled people to travel for free before 9.30am will lift barriers to opportunity and help to grow our economy by better-connecting people to jobs and training.

“We are building the bus network the people of our region deserve by investing millions to improve journeys for passengers.

“The Weaver Network and its buses will be the pride of West Yorkshire.”

Details of the new bus fleet specification have also been published following last year’s onboard buses consultation. New buses will feature electric-powered accessible ramps, space for two wheelchairs plus an additional flexible space for a pushchair or larger luggage, and USB type‑A and type‑C charging points at every seat.

While double doors were not included within the initial scope of the consultation, further route-specific studies could be undertaken to assess their feasibility and any supporting infrastructure requirements. Practical constraints currently make this option challenging to implement across the region.

The Weaver Network is central to fulfilling the Mayor’s Local Transport Plan, which sets the strategic direction for transport investment across West Yorkshire.

The plan is also due for approval at next week’s Combined Authority meeting on March 12.

Notes to editors:

Plans for the refurbishment of Huddersfield Bus Station include new seating, lighting, bus information screens and fully accessible toilets, as well as a new entrance canopy and improvements to public spaces.

The full agenda for the Combined Authority meeting can be found here.