West Yorkshire Launches Consultation on Mass Transit Development

West Yorkshire Launches Consultation on Mass Transit Development

January 29, 2026 Off By

Public invited to contribute views on Mass Transit impact

Leeds and the wider West Yorkshire region have begun a consultation seeking input from residents, businesses, and developers on how the proposed Mass Transit system can best support economic growth and development. The consultation aims to gather opinions on a coordinated approach to land use, regeneration, and transport planning across the five local authorities in West Yorkshire.

Spatial Development Framework to guide future growth

The consultation focuses on the creation of a Spatial Development Framework (SDF), which will underpin the delivery of current and future phases of the Mass Transit programme. Once adopted by Leeds, Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, and Wakefield councils, the SDF will become part of their statutory development plans. These plans provide a vision and framework for future development in the region.

The Mass Transit system is intended to accelerate economic and housing growth, reduce congestion and unreliable journeys, improve access to jobs, and contribute to lower carbon emissions and better air quality. However, these benefits depend on strategic planning that aligns development with the transit infrastructure.

Development focused around transit hubs

The preferred approach outlined in the consultation is to concentrate new homes, jobs, and services within walking distance of Mass Transit stops and hubs. This strategy aims to maximise the impact of investment by focusing growth where it can deliver the greatest benefit.

Statements from local leaders

  • Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin: Emphasised the importance of a strategic, joined-up network spanning the whole region and encouraged public feedback to ensure the system delivers long-term benefits.
  • Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council: Highlighted the opportunities Mass Transit will create and the value of input from residents and stakeholders to guide its delivery.

Risks of uncoordinated development

The consultation notes that an alternative approach, where development decisions are left solely to individual Local Plans without coordination, could lead to missed opportunities and weaker social, economic, and environmental outcomes.

Government funding and project timeline

The UK Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the West Yorkshire Mass Transit project and pledged funding beyond 2032, subject to business case approval. Following an independent review, the Combined Authority has updated the project timeline to reduce risks and support successful delivery.

Consultation scope and next steps

The current consultation does not seek feedback on specific routes, depots, or park and ride locations. These details will be announced after key documents are submitted to the Government. The Combined Authority plans to submit the Strategic Outline Case later this year, which will provide evidence for the project’s necessity.

How to respond to the consultation

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