How mass transit plans could help close £12.7bn productivity gap in West Yorkshire
Mass Transit has the potential to accelerate economic growth
A new document has set out how Mass Transit plans could help close the productivity gap in West Yorkshire.
Earlier this year, all five West Yorkshire local authorities launched a consultation on the plan which will ensure there is a co-ordinated approach to land use, growth, regeneration and transport decisions across local boundaries.
It has led to the creation of an early version of a Spatial Development Framework (SDF), which will support the delivery of current and future phases of the Mass Transit programme.
Now, people, businesses and developers are being asked for their views on the early plans, which outline how the proposals will contribute to economic growth and development across the region.
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 deliver Mass Transit.
“What we need from the public, businesses and developers is to understand if they feel the plans for our framework are sound and reliable.”
The document has revealed that West Yorkshire faces a persistent productivity gap, with the region as a whole producing around £12.7 billion less output per year than would be expected if it matched the UK average.
This gap is projected to widen further and analysis indicates that this underperformance is not just due to the structure of the economy but is also directly linked to transport constraints including the lack of a modern integrated public transport network.
Mass Transit has the potential to accelerate economic and housing growth, tackle congestion and unreliable journeys, and boost access to jobs and opportunities, while reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality.
The SDF envisions focusing new development around proposed stops and hubs to make the most of these benefits, supporting new homes, jobs and services within easy walking distance.
“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,” Mayor Brabin added.
Submitted feedback will add to individual councils’ local plans though more coordinated development, seizing opportunities and better social, economic, and environmental outcomes.
The latest Spatial Development Framework consultation will not ask for feedback on routes, route alignment or things like depots and park and ride sites.
Residents can access submit their views via the link. The consultation is set to run from Tuesday, August 4 – Sunday, September 27.