A major milestone in the transformation of public transport across West Yorkshire has been reached with the official opening of Heckmondwike Bus Station, the first completed facility within the region's new Weaver Network.
The modern transport hub has been designed to make journeys easier, more accessible and more convenient for passengers travelling across Kirklees and beyond. The new station features indoor waiting areas, upgraded bus stands, a Changing Places toilet, enhanced passenger information systems, cycle parking and wider improvements to the surrounding public realm.
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin joined local residents, businesses, transport staff and school representatives at the official opening ceremony, marking a significant step forward in the development of the Weaver Network.
The Weaver Network is a long-term vision to create a fully integrated transport system across West Yorkshire, bringing together buses, rail services, future mass transit, walking, wheeling and cycling routes under a single recognisable network.
As part of the celebrations, a distinctive green Weaver Network plaque was unveiled inside the new station. The plaque offers a contemporary take on the traditional blue plaques used to commemorate important places and moments in local history.
Speaking at the opening, West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said:
“Today is a huge moment for Heckmondwike, our Weaver Network and for West Yorkshire.
“I promised that I would deliver easier, safer and more flexible transport – this fantastic new bus station is just one of the ways we’re improving everyday journeys for people across the region.
“With new electric buses on the way, new and improved bus stations and buses coming under public control, we’re creating a better-connected West Yorkshire that works for all.”
The project has been delivered by Kirklees Council in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, bringing together local government and transport partners to improve connectivity and passenger experience.
Representatives from Kirklees Council, bus operators, station staff, principal contractor R G Carter and architects Stephen George + Partners joined members of the public and the mayor at the official opening event.
The opening of Heckmondwike Bus Station is just one part of a wider programme of transport investment across the region.
Work is already underway on the refurbishment of Huddersfield Bus Station, while Dewsbury Bus Station is expected to reopen later this year following major improvement works.
These upgrades form part of the wider Weaver Network programme, which aims to modernise transport infrastructure while supporting economic growth, accessibility and sustainable travel choices.
Alongside infrastructure investment, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority is progressing plans to introduce bus franchising across the region.
The franchising programme is scheduled to begin from Spring 2027, with all bus services across West Yorkshire expected to come under public control by late 2028.
Once implemented, the Combined Authority will have greater powers to determine routes, fares, service frequencies and quality standards, providing a more coordinated approach to public transport delivery.
By combining modern transport hubs with a franchised bus network, regional leaders hope to improve reliability, simplify journeys and encourage greater use of public transport throughout West Yorkshire.
Image credit: West Yorkshire Combined Authority
