West Yorkshire Combined Authority has confirmed that tens of millions of pounds in new transport investment will be rolled out across West Yorkshire, as the region prepares for the launch of its publicly controlled Weaver Network buses next year.
The distinctive green Weaver buses will mark the return of public control over bus services for the first time in nearly four decades. Under the new franchised system, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority will set routes, timetables, fares and quality standards – ensuring decisions prioritise passengers rather than profit.
Major improvements to bus stations, depots and key routes are already underway. These include:
- The transformation of Heckmondwike Bus Station, now nearing completion
- The reopening of Dewsbury Bus Station in Autumn after a major upgrade
- A proposed £28 million refurbishment of Huddersfield Bus Station, expected to receive final approval next week
- Plans advancing for a £60 million zero‑emission‑ready bus depot in Wakefield
Further investment is also expected for strategic infrastructure schemes, including:
- Bus access improvements on Woodhouse Lane (Leeds) and Wakefield Road (Bradford)
- Enhancements to Beckett Street (Leeds), improving bus access to St James’ Hospital
These works align with the Combined Authority’s long‑term programme to deliver faster, more reliable services through dedicated bus lanes, priority signals and improved passenger facilities. WYCA has delivered significant improvements to the region’s transport network in recent years, including over £53 million invested in modernising bus stations across West Yorkshire. The newly redeveloped Halifax Bus Station, opened in 2024, is among the flagship projects demonstrating the region’s commitment to high‑quality, accessible public transport.
A formal procurement process is now in progress as operators bid to run buses under the Weaver Network brand. WYCA will provide an update at its next meeting on 12 March, ensuring transparency as the region transitions to the franchised model.
In a major step toward inclusive travel, disabled pass holders across West Yorkshire will be able to travel for free at any time of day once the first Weaver Network buses launch, subject to approval at the upcoming Combined Authority meeting.
Currently, disabled passengers must pay full fare before 9.30am on weekdays. The new policy will be piloted in Wakefield from May, before being rolled out region‑wide following impact assessment.
Details of the new Weaver Network bus fleet have also been published following last year’s public consultation. The buses will feature:
- Electric‑powered accessible ramps
- Space for two wheelchairs, plus a flexible space for a pushchair or larger luggage
- USB‑A and USB‑C charging points at every seat
While double doors were not within the original scope of consultation, the Combined Authority has confirmed that route‑specific feasibility studies may be undertaken in future. Infrastructure constraints currently limit the practicality of widespread adoption.
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said:
“Having a disability should not limit your ability to access work. You asked and we have listened - allowing disabled people to travel for free before 9.30am will lift barriers to opportunity and help to grow our economy by better-connecting people to jobs and training.
“We are building the bus network the people of our region deserve by investing millions to improve journeys for passengers.
“The Weaver Network and its buses will be the pride of West Yorkshire.”
The Weaver Network underpins Mayor Brabin’s Local Transport Plan, which sets the strategic vision for transforming West Yorkshire’s transport system—improving reliability, boosting connectivity, reducing emissions and enabling better access to jobs, education and healthcare.
The investment marks one of the most significant steps toward creating a modern, integrated and passenger‑focused transport network for the region.
Image credit: iStock
