West Yorkshire Combined Authority is exploring options for a new mass transit network, like trams, which aren't currently being used in West Yorkshire. A mass transit system would make our Weaver Network faster, better connected and more accessible for communities across Leeds, Bradford and the wider region.
We think West Yorkshire is a great place to live and work with so much to enjoy. But people can’t benefit from what they can’t easily reach. No one should feel limited because of where they live. Restricted travel leads to restricted opportunities.
Even with the improvements planned for our trains, buses, walking and cycling routes, we still won’t have the transport network our region needs and deserves. It's time for something new, ambitious and transformative.
That’s why we’re looking into Mass Transit options, like trams. These are new forms of transport not currently operational in West Yorkshire. They could make our public transport network even better and make it more accessible for everyone.
Mass Transit is the name given to a large public transport system. It aims to move lots of people around urban areas quickly and efficiently.
We see this as one part of a fully integrated transport network called Weaver Network. It will connect all of West Yorkshire, providing easy, fast and accessible transport options for communities throughout the region.
Almost 5,000 people had their say in our Mass Transit route options consultation. We asked for your views on 10 route options, which would see a tram linking Leeds and Bradford and from south Leeds to the city centre. View the full outcome report here.
As part of the government spending review, further funding was allocated to the programme as part of West Yorkshire’s £2.1 billion Transport for City Regions fund.
The government once again reaffirmed its commitment to Mass Transit following an independent peer review of our plans. An updated sequential timeline has been developed in response to this review which will reduce risks and ensure the project is delivered once and for all.
The government committed to funding Mass Transit in West Yorkshire beyond 2032 during the National Growth Strategy and Northern Powerhouse Rail announcement.
Right now, we’re preparing the Strategic Outline Case (SOC), an early stage in the Government's business case process, which we will submit towards the end of summer 2026.
We will then hold a further public consultation on our phase one proposals following central government approval of this SOC and our Outline Business Case.
Please view our Mass Transit FAQs for more information.
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