Opening date revealed for £20m new bus station

Construction of the new Halifax Bus Station has reached a milestone, with some bus services, a new travel centre and accessible toilet facilities opening to passengers from Sunday 1 October.

The facility comprises a £20.5m investment into Halifax town centre.

Ten of the new station’s 19 bus stands will be open from the start of next month. Other bus services will continue to run from stops in the town centre until the new station is fully complete in early 2024.

Construction work will continue until then, and the next developments will include a newsagent and work to attract tenants for the station’s other retail units – including a potential new café.

Alongside improved facilities, safety measures and better access, the new station will enable passengers to switch between bus services more easily.

It also has solar panels, cycle parking, a “green roof” covered in bee-friendly plants and more green space for people to enjoy.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “We want bus travel to be everyone’s first choice in West Yorkshire because it’s the most attractive option to get around.

“Improving facilities for passengers is a key part of our journey towards creating a more inclusive and better-connected region.

“We can’t wait to welcome passengers back when the transformation is fully complete early next year.”

The scheme is being delivered by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority in partnership with Calderdale Council.

Councillor Jane Scullion, Calderdale Council’s leader, said: “This is a significant step forward – for local people and visitors who’ll benefit from improved safety, comfort, connectivity and accessibility; for economic growth by connecting people to jobs and training; and for the council’s priorities for thriving towns and places, reduced inequalities and climate action.

“We’re really pleased with the modern new bus station, which complements the other major regeneration projects across Halifax and Calderdale, as well as our wider plans to transform travel around the town centre.

“The building contributes to local and regional net zero carbon targets by encouraging people to travel sustainably by bus, and through its environmentally friendly features and improved cycle parking and walking routes.”