Leeds United throws support behind WYCA trams
Institutional and government backing for West Yorkshire’s long-awaited mass transit system has strengthened significantly, with ministers, investors, and developers aligning behind plans to start to deliver the scheme by 2028.
Following a regional visit by rail minister Lord Peter Hendy, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to the programme, with chancellor Rachel Reeves once again stating that investment will continue beyond 2032, subject to business case approval.
The mass transit scheme is positioned as a catalyst for regeneration, housing delivery, and commercial growth across the Leeds–Bradford corridor and South Leeds in particular, with the most popular potential route linking Elland Road Stadium to the city centre.
As such, members of the Lowry family, owners of Leeds United Football Club, and Muse, which is leading on Bradford City Village, were on hand for the visit, which seemingly looked to instill more confidence in the infrastructure project.
At the end of last year, West Yorkshire Combined Authority published an updated delivery timeline for the project, informed by an independent review, delaying completion of the scheme to the late 2030s.
Support has also been reiterated by secretary of state for transport Heidi Alexander, providing greater long-term certainty around funding and delivery.
At the same time, a region-wide consultation is underway to inform a Spatial Development Framework, aligning transport investment with land use planning and future growth zones.
Lord Hendy said: “West Yorkshire’s Mass Transit plans have huge potential to transform the region by boosting connectivity and unlocking economic growth, jobs and homes.
“It was great to meet local politicians and business representatives to hear first-hand about the plans and to reiterate the government’s support for the programme.”
Peter Lowy, principal of Lowy Family Group and director of LUFC, said: “I’m delighted that the Mayor and secretary of state have reaffirmed their commitment to mass transit and we are here to support this important project.
“Mass transit is vital to unlock the full potential of south Leeds and truly connect the city.
“It’s time for mass transit to roll into Elland Road and carry the city forward — because great clubs deserve great connections, and Leeds should move with the same pride and power as the roar inside this stadium.”
Simon Dew, director of development management at Muse, said: “The latest commitment from both the transport minister and the chancellor to support the development of a mass transit system for West Yorkshire is fantastic news.
“The economic potential of this region is huge – from world-leading expertise across a variety of sectors and outstanding educational institutions to young, diverse and dynamic communities.
“However, connectivity has always been the barrier to unlocking that potential.
“As a business committed to regeneration, we understand the power of connectivity to drive growth, create new jobs, new homes and new communities.”
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said: “We in West Yorkshire are united in our ambition to finally bring a Mass Transit system to our region.
“We have the backing we need and remain absolutely resolute on our mission to deliver. Working in lockstep with the government and our partners, we will see spades in the ground by 2028.
“As part of our Weaver Network, mass transit will create a better-connected West Yorkshire and unlock economic growth in our regional and national economy for generations to come.”
Tony Walsh, senior strategic advisor at the National Wealth Fund, said: “This Mass Transit system will improve connectivity, support sustainable growth, and create long-term economic benefits across West Yorkshire and beyond.
“Through our Strategic Partnership with West Yorkshire Combined Authority, we look forward to continuing our support, alongside Government and private sector partners, to help deliver this important project for the region.”
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: “We were pleased to welcome Lord Hendy to Bradford to talk through our plans for rail and mass transit.
“These two transport programmes combined are going to be transformational for our economy and we look forward to delivering these in partnership with the Government.”
Cllr James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “We were pleased to welcome Lord Hendy and government colleagues to Leeds so we could show the strength of commitment across the city to delivering mass transit, and to be able to demonstrate the major benefits that enhanced connectivity will bring to Leeds, Bradford, and the wider West Yorkshire region.”
