Transport officials in Leeds have unanimously voted in favour of a new trolleybus network for the city. The £250M ‘New Generation Transport’ project was approved by the West Yorkshire Integrated Transport Authority last Friday. Preparations are now under way for a public inquiry to begin on 29 April.

“This is good news for the city,” said Leeds Councillor Ryk Downes. “The trolleybus will help to reduce congestion and emissions in what is the largest city in Western Europe without a rapid transit system.

“We have been working on this project for a number of years after proposals to introduce a Supertram in the city were dropped,” Councillor Downes added. “The public inquiry will now look to resolve concerns with the scheme where possible.”

One of the objectors to the scheme is from the bus operator First Group which says that trolleybus technology is outdated. It had put forward an alternative proposal which involves upgrading its bus fleet and improved ticketing and information systems. Despite this option being rejected by the transport authority, First Group will be presenting its case to the public inquiry. “Our position is still very much alive,” spokesman Brandon Jones said.

The public inquiry is likely to conclude in June and a final decision on the trolleybus scheme is expected from the Secretary of State early next year. Construction could begin within three years with start of operations in the spring of 2020.

Trolleybus is set to run from Leeds city centre in a north westerly direction through Headingley towards Holt Park and an 850 space park and ride site beside the A6120 Leeds Outer Ring Road. To the south the route will extend to a 1500 space park and ride site beside a junction of the M1 and the M621.

Photo: West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive

To return to the newsletter, please close this window.