Plans for new Leeds bus depot unveiled with space for 100 buses and new jobs
The company is expanding into Leeds as part of franchising plans
One of the UK’s biggest bus operators could run services out of a new Leeds depot if plans are agreed with the council.
Go-Ahead Group is seeking to convert a vacant industrial site in Stanningley as it bids for public transport contracts in the region.
The company said it was it was expanding after a programme of bus franchising was launched by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA).
Jobs would be created at the Varley Street site, which could be used to store up to 100 buses.
A planning report said : “Go-Ahead is in the process of bidding for a number of local tenders which will operate in and around the Pudsey area, including daily service routes and some school services.”
The report said the Stanningley site was suitable as a base for its operations because of its proximity to the ring road.
A planning application to Leeds City Council seeks a change of use of the site, which has been vacant for around a year.
It was previously occupied by New Mix Concentre and Jewsons Building Merchants.
The report said: “Two existing warehouses will be used to store buses and operate as a workshop.”
WYCA’s franchising plans mean buses in the region will come under public control from next year as part of the Weaver Network.
The report by planning consultancy Litchfields said: “In order to retain a robust local bus service, there is a need to mobilise site works quickly to enable operation in spring 2027, and as such, the applicant would appreciate the council’s co-operation in ensuring a prompt decision.”
Go-Ahead is the biggest bus operator in London and also runs transport services in Ireland, Singapore, Sweden, and Australia.
The report said: “Go-Ahead Group has an established presence in the north of England, operating under the Go North East, Go North West and East Yorkshire Bus Company brands.
“Go-Ahead is continually expanding, having recently taken on a number of new routes serving the Wirral, expanding their presence in the North West.”