People, businesses and developers across West Yorkshire will be asked for their views on work to help showcase some of the wider social and economic benefits a future Mass Transit network could bring to the region.
Following a successful consultation earlier this year, the next stage of engagement has been launched as five West Yorkshire councils work on a coordinated approach to land use, growth and regeneration across the region.
What the consultation is about
The Spatial Development Framework (SDF) will ultimately be used to show that Mass Transit is needed to regenerate city and town centres, provide better access to jobs and skills and help businesses remain productive and competitive.
West Yorkshire Combined Authority will now hold a statutory consultation asking the public, businesses and developers what they think to the soundness of the plans.
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said:
“It is so important we get these steps right, as it will demonstrate that all West Yorkshire councils are working together to make Mass Transit a reality.
“What we need from the public, businesses and developers is to understand if this plan is as right for them as it is for our councils, and that is why it’s so important to consult.
“Mass Transit is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a better-connected public transport network for West Yorkshire, so we need to ensure everyone is on that journey with us.”
Have your say
Over time, the document will mean more efficient and clean transport choices, a reduction in congestion and better amenities and stronger environmental requirements for planning applications.
The alternative option – leaving everything to individual Local Plans – would risk less coordinated development, missed opportunities and weaker social, economic, and environmental outcomes.
The Spatial Development Framework consultation will not ask for feedback on routes, route alignment or things like depots and park and ride sites.
The Combined Authority is expected to publish the Strategic Outline Case later this year – a crucial stage that will set out evidence for why Mass Transit is essential for West Yorkshire.