- Buses coming under public control - putting power over
network back in local hands
- Transport upgrades across West Yorkshire as region prepares
for launch of new Weaver Network buses
- Disabled pass holders set to be able travel for free all day
- with early trial to start in Wakefield this May
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 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 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.
