In just under a week, residents in Leeds will head to polling stations to cast their votes in the upcoming local elections.
With voting taking place across the city on May 7, and a third of all seats up for grabs, we asked Yorkshire Evening Post readers to tell us their most important issues.
Many readers pointed to traffic-related problems, from congestion and roadworks to potholes and cycle lanes, while others highlighted the need for more social housing and improved mental health services.
Below are the nine most pressing issues ahead of the May 7 elections, as chosen by YEP readers.
1. Traffic🚦
With ongoing roadworks across the city, it’s no surprise that many readers list traffic among their top priorities when voting on May 7. Peter Andrews said: “Leeds congestion just gets worse and worse and the Council road ‘improvements’ mostly seem to make congestion worse at the cost of millions spent on the works.” | Iconic Media Photo: Tony Johnson
2. Student accommodation 🧑🎓
Leeds is one of the UK’s busiest student cities, home to several high-ranking universities, but some residents believe too many new purpose-built student flats are being built in the city centre. Matthew Handley is among those expressing this concern. | Iconic Media
3. Public transport 🚊
Transport ranks high among issues for YEP readers, many of whom argue that Leeds needs a light rail or metro system or risk, as Mark Hammill warned, being “left behind forever”. Others point to more immediate concerns: J Ben Lds called for a “better inner city transport system”, while Lynn Ward simply wants “buses that actually turn up”. | WYCA
4. Cycle lanes 🚲
For some readers, including Phillip Stanton, new cycle lanes rank among the most pressing issues. When asked about the key concerns in this election, Patrick Lister said, “Scrapping cycle lanes and the like.” | Iconic Media
5. Parking 🅿️
Several readers, including Colin Smith and Christine Bairstow, said the council should do more to enforce parking restrictions, particularly on pavements and in residential areas. Others take a different stance: Jennifer Hampson said, “Free parking.” | Iconic Media Photo: Steve Riding
6. Mental health ❤️🩹
Health and wellbeing are key concerns for many voters in Leeds. Annette Downes highlighted the issue, saying: “Mental health support for children and adults!!” | Iconic Media Photo: Tony Johnson