As inhabitants of the largest city in western Europe not to possess either a light rail or underground network, the residents of Leeds are acutely aware of the consequences of historic neglect when it comes to public transport in the north of England. On Monday, however, frustrated travellers were given some grounds for cautious optimism that change is on the way.
West Yorkshire’s mayor, Tracy Brabin, has unveiled plans for a white rose version of Greater Manchester’s Bee Network in her region. As buses go under local control from 2027, the Weaver Network will unite 19 different brands in an integrated system intended to deliver simpler fares and joined-up travelling options. Eventually, a planned Leeds/Bradford tram network – on which construction is due to start in 2028 – will be woven into the pattern.
