This week in West Yorkshire Combined Authority:

Bus Fare Cap Changes Spark Debate: Local Subsidies Shift as National Scheme Takes Hold

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority's Weaver Network Board met on Thursday 22 October 2026, grappling with significant changes to bus fare subsidies in light of the government's new £2 national bus fare cap. The Board approved the removal of local subsidy support for adult single bus fares from January 2027, a move expected to save the Combined Authority £4.2 million in just three months. This decision, while aiming to avoid duplicating public funding, has raised concerns about the impact on smaller bus operators.

However, the Board also agreed to continue subsidising the MCard DaySaver, keeping its price at £6.00. This decision aims to maintain affordability for passengers making multiple journeys, as there is no direct national equivalent for day tickets. The transition to a franchised bus network by 2028 was highlighted as a key factor in managing revenue risks.

The £2 fare is really clear and simple, but if you do more than two journeys, you should be able to have four journeys, five journeys in a day, and not be worried about hopping on the bus to do a bit of shopping, stated Mayor Tracy Brabin, emphasizing the importance of the DaySaver for regular travellers.

Concerns were voiced about the potential for smaller, family-run operators to be negatively impacted by the changes. Officers confirmed they are preparing a submission to the Department for Transport on behalf of these operators for potential additional support.

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

Devolution and Planning Powers: West Yorkshire Prepares for Rewiring the State

The Scrutiny Committee met on Friday 23 October 2026, engaging in a wide-ranging discussion about the implications of the government's Rewiring the State agenda for West Yorkshire. The committee heard from Mayor Tracy Brabin about the opportunities and challenges presented by new devolved powers, particularly in the area of planning.

Mayor Brabin clarified that while these new planning powers are intended to align West Yorkshire with arrangements in London, the Combined Authority currently lacks a dedicated planning team. The work to prepare for these powers is falling on existing staff, and discussions with the government are ongoing to determine the necessary support, including expertise in development management and the establishment of a casework management system.

We are early in the negotiations with government regarding this new power, Mayor Brabin explained. It is to put MSAs in alignment with London to some degree. I am not in a position where I'm yearning for these powers necessarily because I do see our local authorities, our five local authorities, are eminently capable of making decisions about planning.

The committee also explored the implications of fiscal devolution, including the prospect of receiving a share of local income tax and greater retention of business rates. While this offers greater local control over spending priorities, it does not necessarily mean more money. Discussions are underway with HM Treasury and Number 10 North to define how this will work.

The committee reviewed the Quarter 1 performance report, noting that while most priorities are performing well, several, including employment and skills programme delivery, bus franchising delivery, and transport programme delivery, are flagged as Amber, indicating they are below target. Mitigation strategies are being put in place for these areas.

You can find more details in the Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Other Matters:

The West Yorkshire Mass Transit Spatial Development Framework Joint Committee was scheduled to meet on Wednesday 21 October 2026. The committee was set to consider governance arrangements for the committee and discuss the post-Regulation 19 consultation outcomes for the West Yorkshire Mass Transit Spatial Development Framework Joint Development Plan Document. Key issues raised in the consultation included concerns about the spatial dimension of the framework, the definition of reasonable walking distance, and the relationship between the joint development plan and local plans.

This week in West Yorkshire Combined Authority:

Council Grapples with Assurance Frameworks and Risk Management Amidst Audit Delays

The Governance & Audit Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday, October 8th, 2026, to review the authority's assurance frameworks, risk management processes, and financial oversight. The discussions were set to cover critical documents like the Integrated Assurance Framework and the Local Assurance Framework, alongside updates on risk management, data protection, treasury management, and audit progress.

Strengthening Assurance and Risk Oversight

A key focus was the proposed Integrated Assurance Framework (IAF). This framework aims to bring together governance, risk management, internal control, and performance to provide a clearer picture of how the authority is operating. The goal is to identify any gaps or overlaps in how risks are managed and assurances are gathered. The committee was expected to endorse the principles of this framework, which could lead to a more coordinated approach to ensuring public money is managed effectively and services are delivered as intended.

The West Yorkshire Local Assurance Framework (LAF), a document crucial for assuring the government that funding is managed properly, was also due for review. Revisions were planned to align it with new devolution policies and simplify its structure. This ensures that the authority can demonstrate robust financial management to both the government and, importantly, to residents.

Audit Delays and the Path to Rebuilding Assurance

A significant point of discussion was the progress of internal and external audits. The committee was to receive an update on internal audit work, which was reportedly behind schedule. The target of completing 30% of the audit plan by the end of September was unlikely to be met due to staffing issues. This delay in internal audits means that potential issues or areas for improvement might not be identified and addressed as quickly as they should be.

The external audit update from Forvis Mazars was particularly noteworthy. Previous audit opinions for the years ending 2022/23, 2023/24, and 2024/25 had been disclaimed due to national audit backlogs. The strategy for rebuilding assurance over several years was to be discussed, with a disclaimer of opinion still anticipated for 2025/26. This ongoing uncertainty around audit opinions can impact public confidence in the authority's financial reporting and governance.

The committee was also scheduled to review the progress on implementing audit recommendations. While the overall number of outstanding recommendations had decreased, there was an increase in older ones, suggesting that some issues are taking longer to resolve than anticipated.

You can find more details in the Governance & Audit Committee meeting agenda.

Other Matters:

The committee was also scheduled to receive updates on data protection, including performance on Freedom of Information requests and compliance with UK GDPR training. A Q1 Treasury Management update was also on the agenda, reviewing the authority's borrowing and investment portfolios.

This week in West Yorkshire Combined Authority:

Devolution Power-Up: West Yorkshire Set to Shape Its Own Future Amidst Rewiring the State Reforms

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority Board met on Thursday, September 24th, 2026, to discuss the profound implications of the government's Rewiring the State announcement. This landmark reform promises greater local control over public services and tax revenues, presenting a significant opportunity for West Yorkshire to forge its own path. The Board also reviewed progress on the Integrated Settlement and the Local Assurance Framework, alongside performance and financial updates.

Seizing the Moment: Rewiring the State and Devolution's Next Chapter

The government's Rewiring the State statement heralds a new era of devolution, with a commitment to devolution by default. This means West Yorkshire could see increased local control over areas like employment and skills, transport, housing, and energy. Mayor Tracy Brabin hailed this as a chance for the region to shape its own future. The Board endorsed proposals for officers to collaborate with the government on the forthcoming devolution White Paper, a crucial step in co-producing the future of public services.

The discussions also touched upon fiscal devolution, including the potential for a share of local income tax and greater retention of business rates. However, the possibility of an Overnight Visitor Levy sparked debate, with differing views on its potential impact on the hospitality sector and local economy. This highlights the delicate balance between generating revenue and supporting local businesses, a decision that could affect jobs and livelihoods.

The implications of these reforms are far-reaching, particularly for vulnerable groups. Greater local control could mean more tailored support for those facing unemployment, housing insecurity, or needing access to essential services. However, the specifics of how this power will be exercised and how funding will be allocated will be critical in ensuring equitable outcomes for all residents.

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

Integrated Settlement: Over £2.2 Billion in Funding for Local Priorities

Progress on the Integrated Settlement, a £2.2 billion funding package, was also a key focus. This settlement provides West Yorkshire with greater flexibility to align investment with local priorities. Updates revealed additional funds for domestic building carbon emission reductions, solar panels and batteries in social homes, the City Densification Fund, adult skills, engineering packages, and rough sleeping initiatives. The Integrated Settlement Outcomes Framework (ISOF) has been updated with 48 agreed metrics, ensuring accountability for delivering tangible results.

The focus on domestic building carbon emissions and solar panels in social homes is particularly important for residents in fuel poverty, offering a pathway to lower energy bills and warmer homes. The funding for rough sleeping initiatives directly addresses the urgent need to support some of the region's most vulnerable individuals.

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

Local Assurance Framework Strengthened for Robust Financial Management

The Board reviewed and approved the updated West Yorkshire Local Assurance Framework (LAF) for 2026. This framework is essential for ensuring that public funding is managed effectively and delivers value for money. The revised LAF aligns with the Integrated Settlement, reflects changes in governance, and simplifies the document for greater clarity. This ensures that public money is spent wisely and transparently, providing confidence to residents that their council tax is being used effectively.

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

Other Matters:

The Board received a comprehensive report on Quarter 1 performance for the 2026/27 financial year. While overall performance was strong, with notable reductions in serious violence and progress in housing and skills programmes, some areas were identified as below target. These include the Connect to Work programme and the Home Energy West Yorkshire Customer Advice Service, which are experiencing lower than expected uptake. Mitigating actions are being put in place, including refining delivery approaches and enhancing marketing efforts.

Financial performance for Quarter 1 also showed a projected year-end surplus. The capital programme was rebased, reflecting updated funding allocations and revised delivery schedules. Guiding principles for the development of the Medium-Term Financial Strategy were approved, focusing on long-term financial sustainability and effective risk management.

The Board also noted staffing updates, including arrangements for an interim Chief Executive, and governance changes, including appointments to various committees.

This week in West Yorkshire Combined Authority:

Skills and Transport Take Centre Stage as Council Charts Future Course

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority's Scrutiny Committee met on Friday, September 18th, 2026, to delve into crucial programmes shaping the region's future. The discussions highlighted significant investment in skills and learning, alongside ongoing progress in the ambitious bus franchising programme. These decisions have real-world implications, particularly for young people seeking opportunities and for all residents relying on public transport.

Investing in a Skilled Future: The Region of Learning and Creativity Programme

The committee received a comprehensive overview of the Region of Learning & Creativity Strategy, a ten-year plan designed to transform skills, learning, and employment outcomes across West Yorkshire. This strategy is not just about education; it's about equipping residents with the tools they need to thrive in a changing economy, with a particular focus on reducing youth unemployment.

• Halving Youth Unemployment: A key ambition is to halve the number of 16 to 17-year-olds who are Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET) by 2035. This is a critical goal, as young people facing long-term unemployment can experience significant disadvantages throughout their lives.
• De-risking Hiring: A £150,000 investment will explore ways to encourage employers to take on new staff, particularly entry-level positions. This is vital for young people trying to gain that crucial first step on the career ladder.
• Careers Hub Expansion: £2.98 million is allocated to transition the West Yorkshire Careers Hub towards a commissioning model. This will boost investment in careers advice, work experience, and youth-led initiatives, ensuring young people have access to tailored support.

Councillors raised important questions about how these programmes will reach young people who are not currently engaged with services. Officers assured the committee that plans are in place to work with local authorities and third-sector partners to ensure no one is left behind. The potential impact of national policy changes on devolved funding was also a point of discussion, underscoring the need for robust planning to safeguard these vital programmes.

You can find more details in the Scrutiny Committee meeting agenda.

Bus Franchising Moves Forward: A Smoother Journey for Passengers?

The Weaver Network Board met on Thursday, September 17th, 2026, to discuss the ongoing progress of the bus franchising programme. This ambitious initiative aims to bring bus services back under local control, promising a more integrated, reliable, and customer-focused network.

• Halfway Through the Journey: The programme is now over halfway through its projected four-and-a-half-year timeline. The first major milestone of issuing contract documentation has been passed, with the next critical step being the launch of the first franchised services in early 2027-28.
• Depot Acquisitions Nearing Completion: The complex process of acquiring and refurbishing eight bus depots is nearing completion. Electrification work has already begun in Huddersfield and Bradford, signalling a move towards a greener bus fleet.
• Customer Experience Focus: Significant work is underway to improve the customer experience, including the development of new fares and ticketing systems and a new mobile app. This focus is crucial for making public transport more accessible and user-friendly for everyone, including those with disabilities or who are less familiar with technology.

Concerns were raised about the potential impact of local elections on the timeline and the need for a smooth transition for passengers and drivers. Officers assured the Board that measures are in place to minimise disruption and that the focus remains on delivering a reliable service. The inclusion of Bradford in later rounds of franchising was also discussed, with assurances that the city will not be disadvantaged.

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

Other Matters:

The Scrutiny Committee also approved the Scrutiny Annual Report 2025/26, highlighting the committee's impact on decision-making through its recommendations. Discussions also touched upon governance arrangements and appointments to the Transport for the North (TfN) Scrutiny Committee.