'Worst public transport in Europe': YEP readers reveal what needs improving in Leeds before 2030

With 2030 fast approaching and major debates surrounding city centre road layouts, bus reliability, and local housing shortages, the conversation over the future of Leeds has reached a focal point.

If it isn’t controversial road closures around Leeds Station then it is the long-standing calls for a modern mass transit system, residents across the city have firm ideas on where local leaders are getting it right — and where urgent work is still required.

When we asked Yorkshire Evening Post readers on our Facebook page what needs improving the most in Leeds before 2030, hundreds weighed in with their priorities.

While many focused their frustration on transport links and council policy, others raised concerns over homelessness, high street retail, and basic street cleanliness.

"Leeds is renowned for having the worst public transport in Europe"

For the vast majority of readers, the single biggest challenge facing Leeds over the next six years remains how people move around the city.

Dozens of comments called for an immediate overhaul of the transport network, pointing out that Leeds remains the largest city in Western Europe without a light rail or mass transit system.

Reader Philippa Bairstow highlighted the historic lack of investment, writing: "Leeds is renowned for having the worst public transport in Europe for a city of its size. Leeds closed down the trams in 1959 and never replaced them.

“Less emphasis on road traffic and more on public transport, walking and cycling."

Scott Jacques called for bold ambition, urging authorities to: "Build the tram - all sections of the plan. Build the station at the Springs. Reinstate the trainline to Otley."

Others focused on everyday bus services, with Bob Swindale noting: "Far more frequent and reliable bus services to places that have got neglected. There's no point in having cheap fares if there is not a bus to travel on."

Taking the idea even further, Jo Sheree added: "We need an underground mass transit system."

"Entrance to rail station in a car - whoever dreamed it up?"

Recent pedestrianisation schemes and altered driving routes through the city centre — particularly around Leeds Station and City Square — drew heavy criticism from motorists and shoppers.

David Sutcliffe expressed frustration over recent layout changes, stating: "Entrance to rail station in a car. Whoever dreamed it up?"

Phil Kitson urged decision-makers to rethink recent traffic restrictions, writing: "Reopen City Square to buses and put back the bus stops, additionally improve vehicle access to the railway station!"

Comparing the city centre to out-of-town shopping parks, Wilbur Jarvis argued: "Free parking in Leeds City Centre. Shops close down, market not what it used to be yet the White Rose Centre is thriving. Ask yourself why!"

Roz Kendall highlighted essential healthcare journeys, calling for better "vehicle access to the railway station and A&E Jubilee wing at LGI."

"Litter is a massive problem” and “help for the homeless"

Beyond roads and buses, many readers turned their attention to the physical state of city streets and pressing social issues.

Concerns were raised over vacant shop units and Kirkgate Market, with Chris Martin stating the focus should be "the market and need to get shops open."

Neil Pal highlighted maintenance issues across both central streets and outer suburbs: "Litter is a massive problem! Sprawled over most streets! Litter bins full to overflowing! Help for the homeless!"

Agata Kwiatkowska agreed, stating the priority must be "cleanliness of the city - massively," while Carol Wurr advocated for practical accessibility tweaks, suggesting "seating benches for the elderly in Leeds city centre."

Addressing the housing crisis, Christine Thom wrote: "Homelessness — we need more places to assist and help get people off the streets," with Marble Mind Art adding: "Fix the roads and provide more social housing."

"Listen to the people who live in Leeds"

A significant portion of reader feedback was directed toward local council policy, with residents urging elected officials to consult more closely with communities before rolling out major schemes.

David Watson challenged current infrastructure policy, stating: "The mentality of the council. They are obsessed that we should travel by bus or bicycle and the plain truth of it is that the VAST majority of us don't want to and won't."

Derek Carcary called for improved public dialogue on plans: "Well, let's see what ideas the council comes up with... We don't have to agree with them as long as they TELL US of the proposal FIRST."

Summing up the general sentiment across the comment section, Richard Tate urged leaders to stick to core priorities: "Get the market back to how it used to be.

“Stop building ridiculous bike lanes. Listen to the people who live in Leeds."