This week in West Yorkshire Combined Authority:

Millions Invested in Transport, Skills, and Business Growth

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority's Investment Board met on Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, approving significant funding for a range of projects aimed at improving transport infrastructure, boosting skills development, and supporting economic growth across the region. These decisions will have a tangible impact on residents' daily lives, from their commutes to their job prospects.

£14 Million for Transport Upgrades Across the Region

The Board committed over £14 million to three key transport schemes designed to improve connectivity, safety, and active travel options for residents in Leeds, Huddersfield, and Bradford.

• Leeds: Westgate Connector (£5.8 million): This scheme will enhance pedestrian and cyclist facilities between Burley Road and the Headrow in Leeds. While some councillors raised concerns about value for money and the modelling used, the Board ultimately approved the funding, recognising the need to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians, particularly for the significant student population in the area. The upgrades include segregated cycleways and improved crossing facilities, aiming to make active travel a safer and more appealing choice.
• Huddersfield: Brunswick Street Footpath Improvements (£428,694): This project will upgrade a key pedestrian and cycle route in Huddersfield, connecting residential areas to the town centre and transport hubs. The improvements, including new lighting and step-free access, are expected to make the route safer and more attractive, encouraging more people to walk and cycle.
• Bradford: Toller Lane Junction Improvement (£6.6 million): This significant investment will improve traffic flow, safety, and active travel provisions at a congested junction in Bradford. The scheme includes new pedestrian crossings and upgraded traffic signals, aiming to reduce delays for all road users and improve air quality. Councillor Ian Eaglin spoke in favour, highlighting the urgent need for improvements in the area.

These transport investments are crucial for creating a more accessible and sustainable region, encouraging people to choose greener modes of transport and reducing reliance on cars. For vulnerable groups, such as the elderly or those with mobility issues, improved pedestrian and cycling infrastructure can significantly enhance their independence and quality of life.

£3 Million for Skills and Employment Support

The Board approved substantial investment in skills and employment programmes, aiming to equip residents with the skills needed for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

• Region of Learning and Creativity (£2.98 million for careers support, £150,000 for hiring incentives): This funding will bolster careers support services, ensuring individuals have access to the information and guidance they need to make informed decisions about their education and employment. It also includes investment in programmes to de-risk hiring for businesses, encouraging them to take on new employees, particularly those entering the workforce for the first time. Councillor Ian Eaglin raised concerns about the future of Employment West Yorkshire (EWY), a vital service for many residents, and the potential funding cliff edge it faces. Officers assured the Board that work is ongoing to secure future funding for EWY.
• Targeted Work Experience Programme (£50,000): Development funding was approved for a programme focused on providing work experience opportunities, offering valuable hands-on experience to individuals seeking to enter the job market.

These initiatives are vital for tackling unemployment and underemployment, ensuring that no one is left behind. By investing in skills and careers support, the Combined Authority is working to create a more inclusive economy where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Boosting Business and Green Transition

The Board also endorsed projects aimed at strengthening the region's economy and supporting businesses in their transition to a greener future.

• Made Smarter (Professional and Business Services) (£9.1 million): This pilot programme will help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the professional and business services sector adopt digital technologies. This is crucial for improving productivity and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving economic landscape. Councillor Raph Cohn expressed some scepticism about grant-based funding, but the Board was assured that this is a pilot scheme designed to learn and adapt.
• Energy Transition and Security (£1.25 million): This funding will support businesses in improving their energy security, reducing carbon emissions, and increasing productivity. This is particularly important for businesses facing rising energy costs, helping them to become more resilient and sustainable. Councillor Sarah Courtney emphasised the importance of monitoring the outcomes of these schemes to ensure they deliver real benefits.
• West Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) (£461,500 increase): This funding will support marketing campaigns and business development within the visitor economy, aiming to boost tourism and create jobs. Mayor Tracy Brabin expressed pride in West Yorkshire's cultural assets and the potential of this scheme to drive economic growth.

These investments demonstrate a commitment to building a diverse and resilient economy that benefits all residents, particularly those in vulnerable groups who may be disproportionately affected by economic downturns or the impacts of climate change.

You can find more details in the Investment Board meeting agenda.

This week in West Yorkshire Combined Authority:

Buses Under Public Control: Council Approves Compulsory Purchase Orders for Depot Infrastructure

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority Board took a significant step towards bringing bus services back under public control by approving the making of Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) for key depot infrastructure. This decision, made at the Combined Authority Board meeting on Thursday 30 July 2026, is crucial for the success of the Weaver Network bus franchising programme.

The CPO process is being initiated because negotiations with some bus operators to commercially purchase depots have not yet reached agreement within reasonable commercial parameters. This means that without these orders, the timeline for franchising could be significantly delayed. The earliest that affected franchising contracts could go live, if a CPO is enacted, is October 2028.

Mayor Tracy Brabin emphasised the importance of this move, stating, This is an important and exciting milestone in our journey to deliver on our Weaver Network and bring buses back under public control across West Yorkshire. She added that bus franchising will allow for a more reliable, affordable, integrated public transport network that supports economic growth in every postcode in our region.

The approval includes authorising the Chief Executive to finalise the order and progress the compulsory purchase process, including potential public inquiries. Funding for the CPO process in 2026-27 has also been approved from the Combined Authority's revenue budget, utilising reserves if necessary. This investment in infrastructure is laying the groundwork for a modern transport network that aims to benefit all communities and drive long-term economic growth.

New Buses to Power the Weaver Network

In parallel, the Board approved significant funding for the Bus Reform Fleet Provision scheme, which is essential for operating the franchised services under the Weaver Network. An additional £90,347,136 was released, bringing the total approved funding to £121,526,206 for Rounds 1 and 2 of the programme. The estimated total scheme cost is up to £265,821,038.

This investment will procure 256 new buses, with the majority being zero-emission electric vehicles. This commitment to cleaner transport will contribute to a more sustainable bus network. While concerns were raised about the inclusion of 48 diesel vehicles, assurances were given that these are necessary due to the current pace of electric charging infrastructure rollout. The Authority will explore Euro 7 diesel options if available, and the life cycle of diesel buses will be a maximum of 15 years, with potential for mid-life repowering.

Councillor Andrew Cooper raised the point about the diesel vehicles, asking if the Authority was transitioning to Euro 7 standards. Simon Pope, Transport Capital Programme Director, explained that while Euro 7 diesel options are expected later this year, the current need for diesel vehicles is linked to the pace of electric charging infrastructure rollout.

The Board also noted that the launch of franchise services from the new-build fully electric depot in Wakefield will be put back to October 2028 due to complexities with its delivery. The order for those new vehicles will be included as part of Round 3, which will be brought forward for consideration later this year.

You can find more details in the Combined Authority Board meeting agenda.

Housing Pipeline Endorsed to Accelerate Development and Regeneration

The Combined Authority Board also endorsed the indicative pipeline of projects for the West Yorkshire Housing Investment Fund. This move aims to accelerate housing delivery, unlock development sites, and support the region's housing ambitions through a flexible investment programme.

The pipeline, which includes projects that may require funding from the West Yorkshire Housing Investment Fund, demonstrates the scale of opportunity across all five districts. The Board delegated to the Investment Board the endorsement of any future revisions to this pipeline.

Discussions highlighted the importance of tackling the climate emergency in housing development. Councillor Andrew Cooper called for standards beyond current building regulations, suggesting Passive House standards or specific airtightness levels. He stressed the need to consider cooling in summer and the inclusion of solar panels, advocating for the development of a West Yorkshire standard for housing.

Mayor Brabin acknowledged these concerns, stating that a paper exploring future housing standards, developed in partnership with developers, would be brought back. Councillor Sarah Wood also suggested that future housing specifications should consider anti-social behaviour, crime, and disorder, and how housing design can support police and other agencies.

The Board noted the emerging partnership models designed to drive growth and regeneration across West Yorkshire. This initiative brings together local authorities, Homes England, the combined authority, investors, and developers to accelerate regeneration and attract additional investment.

You can find more details in the Combined Authority Board meeting agenda.

Members' Allowances Scheme Adopted

The Board approved the recommendations of the Independent Remuneration Panel (IRP) regarding remuneration for members and adopted the Members' Allowance Scheme for the 2026-27 municipal year. This decision followed a previous meeting where no decision was reached. The scheme includes allowances for Political Balance Members on the Combined Authority Board, Investment Board, and Weaver Network Board, as well as for the Chair of the Governance and Audit Committee. The adopted scheme also includes updated provisions for expenses, including travel, subsistence, and childcare allowances, and introduces pension eligibility for members receiving relevant allowances.

Councillor Robert Webb declared an interest in this item as a political balance member who would benefit from the scheme.

You can find more details in the Combined Authority Board meeting agenda.

Other Matters Noted:

• The Board noted the appointment of Councillor Sarah Wood as the new Combined Authority Board Member for Kirklees Council, with Councillor Mark Smith as her substitute.
• Appointments of political balance members to the Combined Authority Board, Governance and Audit Committee, Investment Board, and Weaver Network Board were also noted.

This week in West Yorkshire Combined Authority:

Mass Transit Plans Advance as Committee Reconstitutes and Consultations Progress

The West Yorkshire Mass Transit Spatial Development Framework Joint Committee met on Wednesday, July 22nd, 2026, to formally reconstitute itself following recent elections and to review the progress of the Spatial Development Framework (SDF) Joint Development Plan Document (JDPD). This framework is crucial for guiding future development and ensuring it aligns with the region's ambitious mass transit plans, impacting everything from where new homes can be built to how communities are connected.

Rebuilding the Committee for Future Planning

The meeting marked the formal re-establishment of the Joint Committee, a necessary step after local elections. While most West Yorkshire councils had appointed their representatives, the committee noted that Bradford was yet to appoint a substitute member, and Kirklees Council was still finalising its appointments due to not having formed its Executive. This highlights the procedural steps involved in local government, ensuring all voices are represented.

The committee was asked to nominate and appoint a Chair and Deputy Chair, and to reconfirm the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) as the lead authority. Mayor Tracy Brabin will continue to be co-opted in a non-voting capacity, a practice established in January 2026. The committee's Terms of Reference and Deed of Agreement, which outline meeting procedures and voting rights, were also to be considered. These documents are fundamental to how decisions are made, ensuring transparency and fairness.

Spatial Development Framework Moves Towards Final Consultation

A key focus was the West Yorkshire Mass Transit Spatial Development Framework (SDF) Joint Development Plan Document (JDPD) Regulation 19 Consultation report. This framework is a vital planning document that will form part of the statutory development plan for each of the five West Yorkshire Local Planning Authorities. Its purpose is to ensure that land use, growth, regeneration, and infrastructure investment are all aligned with the delivery of current and future phases of Mass Transit.

The report detailed the outcomes of the Regulation 18 consultation, which took place earlier this year. This consultation sought views from the public, businesses, and various organisations on the draft JDPD. While there was broad support for the SDF's principles, including integrated transport and land-use planning, feedback highlighted a need for greater clarity on its relationship with Local Plan reviews and its specific delivery and safeguarding roles.

Following this feedback, district local planning officers and WYCA technical leads have developed policies for the Regulation 19 consultation. This is the final stage of public consultation before the JDPD is submitted for examination. The report outlined the next steps, including a Full Council decision to submit the JDPD for examination in December 2026, and a subsequent decision to adopt the plan in Spring 2027.

The committee was asked to approve the SDF JDPD Regulation 19 Consultation report for issuance. This process is critical for ensuring that future development supports sustainable transport and community connectivity, ultimately impacting residents' daily lives by shaping the places they live, work, and travel through.

You can find more details in the West Yorkshire Mass Transit Spatial Development Framework Joint Committee meeting agenda.

Weaver Network Board Launches, Tackling Bus and Rail Performance

The inaugural meeting of the Weaver Network Board took place on Thursday, July 23rd, 2026. This new board is tasked with overseeing the integrated transport system for West Yorkshire, with a strong focus on improving bus and rail services for residents. The discussions highlighted both progress and persistent challenges in delivering reliable and accessible public transport.

Establishing Governance for Integrated Transport

The Board formally adopted its governance arrangements, with Mayor Tracy Brabin serving as Chair and Councillor Eleanor Thomson as Deputy Chair. The new structure aims to provide greater decision-making power compared to previous committees, a move welcomed by Councillor Peter Carlill, who noted the potential for more decisive action on transport issues. The arrangements ensure that decisions require a simple majority, with the Mayor or Deputy Mayor needing to be part of that majority. This structure is designed to ensure that strategic transport decisions are made with clear leadership and accountability.

Bus Performance: Progress and Persistent Concerns

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a quarterly update on bus performance. While punctuality has improved to 85.4% and service reliability has strengthened with fewer cancellations, overall patronage continues to decline year-on-year, largely due to a reduction in adult journeys.

• Customer Satisfaction: Satisfaction with bus services has increased to 81%, with notable improvements in punctuality and waiting times. However, value for money remains a concern for passengers, with satisfaction dropping to 58%.
• Safety and Accessibility: A persistent gender gap in confidence using buses after dark was highlighted, with only 39% of women feeling safe compared to 65% of men. This is a critical issue for vulnerable groups, impacting their ability to travel independently and safely. Investment in bus station refurbishments and the development of the Weaver Network app, which will include features to report unsafe areas, are intended to address these concerns.
• Future of Fares: The upcoming national £2 bus fare cap from January 2027 was discussed, with the Combined Authority considering its implications for the region's own fare policy. This could offer significant relief to many residents struggling with the cost of living.

Councillor Darren Commons questioned the sustainability of the £120 million annual subsidy if patronage continues to fall. Tim Taylor, Director of Transport Services, explained that improved punctuality can sometimes be achieved by stretching timetables, leading to slower journeys, and detailed the various funding streams supporting the bus network. The move towards bus franchising is expected to provide more detailed data and greater control over service delivery.

Rail Performance: Growth and Infrastructure Investment

The Board also received an update on rail network performance. Passenger demand remains strong, with growth across all major operators.

• Service Adjustments: Northern is proposing changes to some services to improve reliability, which may mean some passengers lose direct services but are expected to improve overall network performance.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: Significant investment is ongoing in rail infrastructure, including the TransPennine Route Upgrade. New stations at Farr Park and Allen Station are nearing development.
• Rail Reform: The Railways Bill progressing through Parliament proposes a statutory role for Mayoral Strategic Authorities like West Yorkshire in rail. A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with the rail industry, paving the way for future partnership with Great British Railways (GBR).

Councillor Eleanor Thomson raised concerns about the capacity and affordability of CrossCountry services, describing journeys as being like a sardine tin. Mayor Brabin noted that CrossCountry has invested in longer trains to alleviate capacity issues. Councillor Keith Anderson shared a poignant account of an incident on a train, commending the staff for their professionalism and highlighting the human element in service delivery.

The Board noted the updates, with members encouraged to provide feedback on desired improvements for future oversight and service delivery. These discussions are vital for ensuring that transport services meet the needs of all residents, particularly those who rely on them most.

You can find more details in the Weaver Network Board meeting agenda.

This week in West Yorkshire Combined Authority:

Investment Board Pours Millions into Transport, Skills, and Regeneration

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority's Investment Board met on Thursday, July 16th, 2026, making significant decisions that will shape the region's future. From improving bus routes in Leeds to boosting construction skills and supporting local businesses, the Board approved substantial funding aimed at driving economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

£650,000 to Speed Up Buses in Leeds

Residents travelling by bus in Leeds will soon experience quicker and more reliable journeys thanks to the approval of over £650,000 for bus priority measures on South Accommodation Road. This funding will transform a general traffic lane into a dedicated 24-hour bus lane and introduce signalisation at the Atkinson Street roundabout to ease congestion.

The scheme, which aims to reduce bus journey times and improve punctuality, is a crucial step in making public transport a more attractive option for commuters. Councillor Salma Arif, Deputy Leader of Leeds City Council, championed the project, highlighting its benefits for people travelling into the city from across the region. This investment directly addresses the frustration many feel when bus journeys are unpredictable due to traffic, impacting their ability to get to work or appointments on time.

• Funding: £654,734 from the Combined Authority, bringing the total to £791,000.
• Impact: Improved bus journey times and reliability for thousands of passengers.
• Outcome: The scheme is set to begin in October and be completed by December.

You can find more details in the Investment Board meeting agenda.

Millions Invested in Skills to Fuel Future Growth

Recognising that a skilled workforce is the bedrock of a strong economy, the Board approved significant funding for several initiatives designed to boost skills development and employment opportunities across West Yorkshire.

• Tackling Tutor Shortages: To ensure colleges can offer vital courses, particularly in engineering and manufacturing, the Addressing Tutor Shortages in Further Education scheme received approval for an extended delivery timeline and a refocused scope. This aims to bring industry expertise into the classroom, ensuring students receive the best possible training.
• Boosting Construction Skills: Up to £6.73 million was allocated to the Construction Skills Capital programme. This will enhance training capacity at Further Education providers, with Leeds College of Building acting as a regional hub. This is vital for meeting the demand for skilled workers in the construction sector, which is essential for delivering new homes and infrastructure. Councillor Andrew Judson voiced his support, while also advocating for previously allocated funding to be reinstated for a Skills College in Keighley.
• Apprenticeship Drive: In principle, the Board approved the acceptance of up to £10 million for an Apprenticeship Brokerage pilot. If successful in securing government funding, this pilot will simplify the process for employers and aspiring apprentices, aiming to increase the number of apprenticeships taken up across the region.
• Supporting Health and Work: The WorkWell Programme, designed to help individuals with health conditions enter or remain in employment, received approval for the transfer of over £10 million in funding from the West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board. Councillor Stephen Dransfield highlighted the critical importance of addressing mental health challenges within this programme, a concern echoed by many as the cost of living crisis continues to impact well-being.

These investments are crucial for ensuring that West Yorkshire's residents have access to the training and support they need to secure good jobs and for businesses to find the talent they require to grow and innovate.

Driving Economic Development and Regeneration

The Board also approved a suite of measures to stimulate economic development and regeneration across the region:

• Integrated Business Support: Up to £7 million was allocated to the Business Support Infrastructure (Ecosystem) scheme. This will create a more connected and accessible business support system, ensuring that businesses, from start-ups to established firms, can easily find the advice and resources they need through a no wrong door approach. Councillor Sarah Courtney welcomed this initiative, noting its potential to empower local regions.
• Local Authority Business Support: The Business Support Infrastructure (Local Authority Framework) received up to £9.2 million. This will enable local authorities to deliver tailored business support within their areas, operating under a shared regional framework and focusing on agreed outcomes. This empowers local councils to best serve their specific business communities.
• Supply Chain Strengthening: £2 million was approved for the West Yorkshire Supply Chain Programme. This initiative aims to connect manufacturing businesses to national and international supply chains, helping them diversify their customer base and improve their readiness for global markets. Mayor Tracy Brabin emphasised the critical role West Yorkshire businesses play in supplying vital sectors, such as the satellite industry.
• Digital Transformation for Manufacturing: The Made Smarter (Manufacturing) scheme received up to £1.09 million to help small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) adopt digital tools, boosting productivity and sustainability.
• Leeds Old Medical School Regeneration: The Investment Zone Capital – Old Medical School project in Leeds was approved to move to the outline business case stage. This project aims to transform the historic Old Medical School into innovation workspace for the health tech sector, with a potential Combined Authority contribution of up to £20 million. Councillor Matthew Pinder raised a query about ensuring local businesses, such as ADE Power, are considered in regeneration efforts, receiving assurance that their expansion plans would be discussed.

Greener Homes and Flood Defences

The Board also addressed environmental concerns and community resilience:

• Home Energy Loans: The Home Energy West Yorkshire – Phase 2 Home Energy Loan Scheme was approved, with the Combined Authority providing £6.97 million. This scheme offers low-interest loans for home retrofitting, helping residents improve energy efficiency, reduce bills, and strengthen their homes against rising energy costs. Councillor Andrew Judson raised an important point about ensuring tenants benefit from landlord loans, particularly regarding battery storage systems.
• Brighouse Flood Alleviation: The Brighouse Flood Alleviation Scheme Phase 1 received approval for an extension to its delivery timeline and a scope adjustment. Councillor Keith Ingle spoke strongly in support, highlighting the devastating impact of flooding in the Calder Valley. Concerns were raised by Councillor Stephan Dransfield and Councillor Salma Arif about water being diverted downstream, a point acknowledged by the Mayor as a key focus for future upstream mitigation efforts.

These decisions reflect a comprehensive approach to building a stronger, more prosperous, and resilient West Yorkshire, with a clear focus on supporting residents and businesses through targeted investment.