Report outlines impact of proposed mass transit scheme in Bradford

A report which outlines plans for a mass transit scheme to cover Bradford and the wider Leeds City Region will be discussed at meeting of Bradford Council’s Executive Committee on 4 December.

The report sets out proposals for a City Region Transit Network which comprises a public transport provision via mass transit such as 21st century trams, linking Bradford’s city centre stations for north-south connectivity, which would be integrated with Northern Powerhouse Rail.

The scheme would also provide additional capacity between Bradford and Leeds with a new stop at Laisterdyke and a line running through the south of Bradford, with a stop in Low Moor before continuing on to Dewsbury and Kirklees.

In addition, the report will address the the economic challenges facing the region and how to maximise the benefits infrastructure schemes such as HS2.

“Transforming connectivity in the communities of greatest economic need will help raise productivity, living standards and improve air quality and help to deliver Inclusive Growth,” claims the report.

The current key connectivity priorities of the district are a Northern Powerhouse Rail hub in Bradford city centre as well as the redevelopment of Forster Square Railway Station and the Interchange.

Coun Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and transport, said: “We are working with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to look how connectivity in the Bradford district can be improved.

“The proposed mass transit scheme is in the early stages of development but show the scale of our ambition in ensuring Bradford and the wider district has a transport network fit for the 21st century that can take full advantage of a city centre station for Northern Powerhouse Rail.”