Plans for a tram system running between Leeds and Bradford have been set out today, as the West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin aims to revolutionise the region’s transport network. 

The proposals were published today ahead of the final Combined Authority meeting, ahead of May’s Mayoral election, of West Yorkshire’s leaders next week (March 14), which will see them agree to a major step forward for the so-called mass transit scheme. It is hoped that spades will be in the ground in 2028 when construction of the early stage of the project will begin.   

Phase one would include two lines serving Leeds and Bradford, The Leeds Line and the Bradford Line. The Leeds Line would take people between St James’ Hospital, through Leeds city centre and on to Elland Road and the White Rose Shopping Centre.  

The Bradford Line would run from Leeds city centre to Bradford city centre – also linking Bradford Forster Square station with the new Bradford rail station. This line supports Bradford’s plans to regenerate the city’s southern gateway, which includes the new Bradford rail station.      

The Combined Authority would also work with Kirklees Council to look into how to include a Dewsbury Line in future. 

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said: “Today is a key milestone in our plan to create a better-connected region that works for all. By setting out our plans to submit to government, we are taking a major step forward towards the biggest infrastructure project West Yorkshire has seen since the development of the motorways six decades ago. This will be transformational for the North, helping our communities to thrive and our economy to flourish – benefitting generations to come with greater opportunity and prosperity.  

(Picture – West Yorkshire Combined Authority)