Strong support for tram system linking Bradford and Leeds with Elland Road stop included in phase one!
Tracy Brabin says West Yorkshire is ready. Support comes from White Rose and Bradford University too. They will use feedback to pick a scheme later this year. A detailed route plan comes in early 2026. Feedback shapes plans to meet community needs and helps add details to phase one plans.
No routes are final yet. A popular south Leeds route is L6, going via Holbeck and Elland Road Stadium. It also uses Beeston Ring Road, ending at White Rose Centre. L7 is another route option, which goes through Gelderd Road and Lowfield Road. It also uses Elland Road Stadium and Old Lane.
The route consultation happened in summer and autumn 2024. Almost 5,000 people gave their opinions. This is West Yorkshire’s biggest infrastructure project in decades. The report shows strong public support, with most people wanting a Leeds to Bradford line and many backing a St James’s to White Rose line.
People want better connections to homes, less traffic, and faster travel. These are key goals for the transit network. The consultation had several route options, all for phase one of the network. Leaders in business and schools also support the plans.
Steve Foster talked about Leeds needing a modern transport system. The system should match the city’s ambition. He says better connections are a step forward. Modern transport boosts economic growth and extends opportunities across the region, especially if it links hubs.
Tracy Brabin said the public wants mass transit, calling it the region’s biggest project. The project will help people earn more money. She wants to start building by 2028. Rachel Reeves spoke about this project recently too, promising government support for the scheme.
They will consider findings from environmental surveys. They also plan more talks with stakeholders. Feasibility will also impact the choice. This information will inform the preferred scheme. A route consultation follows in early 2026.