The Combined Authority Board of West Yorkshire Combined Authority Council met on Thursday 30 July 2026, approving significant funding for bus reform fleet provision and the compulsory purchase of key bus depots, alongside endorsing an indicative housing pipeline and adopting a new members' allowances scheme. The meeting also saw the confirmation of various governance appointments to the Board and its committees.

Governance Arrangements

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. Following this, political balance members were appointed to the Combined Authority Board, the Governance & Audit Committee, the Investment Board, and the Weaver Network Board. These appointments were made to ensure political representation across the Board and its committees. Additionally, several appointments made under officer delegation to various committees and boards were noted.

Bus Franchising Programme - Approval of Compulsory Purchase Order & Supporting Statutory Documentation

A significant milestone was reached in the bus franchising programme with the approval of a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) and supporting statutory documentation. This decision authorises the Chief Executive to finalise the order, submit it to the Secretary of State, and progress the CPO process, including any necessary negotiations, consultations, or public inquiries. The Board also approved the funding for the costs associated with the CPO process for 2026/27 from the Combined Authority's revenue budget, utilising reserves if necessary. This move is crucial for securing key depot infrastructure needed for the successful delivery of the franchised bus network, with negotiations for commercial purchase of depots ongoing but not yet achievable in all cases. The compulsory purchase powers are considered necessary to ensure the programme can move forward with confidence, although it may lead to a revised service go-live date of October 2028 for affected contracts.

Project Approvals - Bus Reform Fleet Provision

The Board approved the Bus Reform – Fleet Provision scheme for Rounds 1 and 2, authorising work to commence on delivery. This includes approving additional funding of £90,347,136, bringing the total approval to £121,526,206, with estimated total scheme costs up to £265,821,038. Future approvals will follow the established assurance pathway. This funding will enable the purchase of new buses, including electric and diesel models, to support the franchised bus network. The scheme aims to provide a more reliable, affordable, and integrated public transport network, contributing to environmental benefits through the introduction of zero-emission vehicles and improved air quality. Discussions also touched upon the phasing of electric charging infrastructure and the potential for Euro 7 diesel vehicles.

West Yorkshire Indicative Housing Pipeline & Partnership Models

The Board endorsed the indicative pipeline of projects for the West Yorkshire Housing Investment Fund and delegated to the Investment Board the endorsement of any future revisions to this pipeline. The emerging partnership models designed to drive growth and regeneration across West Yorkshire were also noted. This initiative aims to accelerate housing delivery by bringing together local authorities, Homes England, investors, and developers, leveraging devolved powers and funding to attract additional investment and regenerate key growth locations. The discussion highlighted the importance of creating thriving places and ensuring the benefits of growth are felt across the region. Members raised points regarding building standards for energy efficiency, the inclusion of solar panels, and the need for housing designs that consider cooling in summer and support community safety. A commitment was made to bring back a further paper exploring these standards in partnership with developers.

Members' Allowances Scheme 2026-27

The Board approved the recommendations of the Independent Remuneration Panel regarding remuneration for members and adopted the Members' Allowances Scheme for the 2026/27 municipal year. This followed a previous meeting where no decision was reached. The scheme, as amended, sets out the allowances and expenses members are entitled to claim, with a focus on ensuring proportionality and adherence to legal requirements for independent review. The decision was carried by a simple majority.