West Yorkshire getting £2.1bn investment for local transport
It's hoped West Yorkshire's Mass Transit will start being built by 2028
Last updated 4th Jun 2025
The Government said West Yorkshire will benefit from £2.1bn investment in transport under Plan for Change.
The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves' team said this forms part of the biggest ever investment in buses, trams and local train infrastructure in city regions as she promises the renewal of Britain to make all parts of the country better off.
It's hoped it means spades will be in the ground to start building West Yorkshire Mass Transit by 2028, with aim for first services by mid-2030s.
The new system which could be new tram lines will be fully integrated with cycling, walking, bus and rail, making journeys quicker, more accessible and more reliable across the region.
Local authorities will transform six transport corridors in West Yorkshire not covered by the mass transit routes, with new bus stations at Bradford and Wakefield.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:
“Today marks a watershed moment on our journey to improving transport across the North and Midlands – opening up access to jobs, growing the economy and driving up quality of life as we deliver our Plan for Change.
"For too long, people in the North and Midlands have been locked out of the investment they deserve. With £15.6bn of Government investment, we're giving local leaders the means to drive cities, towns and communities forward, investing in Britain’s renewal so you and your family are better off."
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said:
“It is time for trams - today is a huge moment for our region.
“The Chancellor's backing means we now have the investment needed to bring trams back to the streets of Leeds and Bradford - improving public transport connections and boosting growth.
"We will also be able to take forward other vital projects, including new bus stations for Bradford and Wakefield, which will help us create a better-connected region that works for all."
Mark Casci, Head of Policy and Representation at West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said:
“This commitment to fund mass transit in West Yorkshire can be a game changer for the region.
“West Yorkshire is home to a world-class business community, but the region is held back by poor connectivity which impacts upon our productivity.
“By delivering this much needed infrastructure upgrade to the region, West Yorkshire can finally punch its weight and deliver enhanced returns for UK PLC.”
The funding comes ahead of next week’s Spending Review when the Chancellor will set out how this government is investing in the country’s future.