Talking Transport Meetings

Share Talking Transport Meetings on Facebook Share Talking Transport Meetings on Twitter Share Talking Transport Meetings on Linkedin Email Talking Transport Meetings link
A person walking away from a bus, smiling and talking on the phone, holding an umbrella

Talking Transport: tell us your views and hear our plans!

Come along to a Talking Transport meeting: tell us what you think, ask questions and hear the latest news about transport plans in your area.

Integrated across bus, walking, cycling, rail and more – the Weaver Network promises a better experience for customers that gets you where you need to go, no matter how you choose to travel.

Your experiences will help shape the next steps as we improve transport across the region and create a cleaner, greener and more inclusive future.

Our Talking Transport meetings take place twice a year for each local authority, bringing together people who shape the way transport works in your area. You’ll get to hear what we’re doing to improve transport, locally and across West Yorkshire, and to ask questions and share your experiences.

Meetings are led by local Councillors who have responsibility for transport, in partnership with us (the West Yorkshire Combined Authority) and your local authority (Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds or Wakefield). Operators of transport services in each area are also invited to join the meetings and answer any questions about their services.

Recent and upcoming dates

Our latest Talking Transport meetings were held in January/February 2026, on the following dates:

  • Wakefield (York House Hotel) – 20 January, 5:30pm-7:30pm
  • Bradford (Guidepost Hotel, Low Moor) – 21 January, 5:30pm-7:30pm
  • Calderdale (Brighouse 6th Form)– 26 January, 5pm-7pm
  • Kirklees (Marsden Mechanics) – 28 January, 5:30pm-7:30pm
  • Leeds (Avenue HQ) – 4 February, 5:30pm-7:30pm

Please refer back to this page or click 'Follow Project' on the right hand side of the screen to receive details of future meetings.

If you'd like to join us at an in-person meeting, you can sign up in any of the following ways:

  • Sign up on Eventbrite via the links above
  • Or email: yourvoice@westyorks-ca.gov.uk
  • Or phone: 0113 245 7676 (MetroLine)

For those who can’t join an in-person meeting, a recording of the presentations will be added to this page once all in-person events have taken place. Please use the ‘Question and Answer’ section below or email yourvoice@westyorks-ca.gov.uk to ask the team any questions you may have.

Past meetings

Presentations and notes from previous meetings can be found in the ‘Previous meetings’ section. Recordings can be found in 'Previous recordings'.

Registering attendance

We ask everyone planning to attend an event to book a ticket in advance. This is so that we can ensure that the venue is prepared for all ticketholders and that the event runs smoothly.

You can book a ticket up to midnight on the day before the event.

We make an effort to accommodate everyone who wants to attend, but those who have not booked a ticket may not be let in if we run out of space.

Please note: due to the size and public nature of these events, security precautions will be taken including an ID and bag check for all attendees on entry. If an attendee cannot provide ID, we will ask for the information provided during registration: i.e. email address, postcode.

Accessibility

We want Talking Transport meetings to be accessible for all and for everyone to feel welcome and included at our events. There is no typical attendee and we recognise that everyone attending our events has different needs.

All venues are checked for accessibility beforehand. When registering for the event you are given the chance to tell us about any access requirements which may affect your experience at the event. We will use the information provided and try to accommodate your needs.

We are also be happy to provide information about the event to allow you to plan your day for maximum comfort, including but not limited to: closest accessible transport stations, any available breakout/quiet space, seating arrangements, any refreshments provided or where refreshments may be available nearby, content e.g. flashing images or high volume, specific timings and when an event is expected to finish.

If you would like to discuss your visit to one of our Talking Transport events or to speak to a member of staff about your accessibility needs, please contact us by:

  • Telephone: 0113 245 7676 (MetroLine).

We look forward to welcoming you to our events.

Protocol for journalists attending the events

Journalists are welcome to attend these events. However, please note that these events are for members of the public to directly ask questions of our panel, therefore we ask the journalists in attendance not to ask questions or provide comments.

How will we use your data?

We only gather the minimum amount of information to ensure a smooth-running event. This includes your name, postcode, email and if you have any special access requirements that we need to be aware of in advance.

More information can be found in our Privacy Notice here on Your Voice.

Please be advised that a photographer/filmmaker may be present at the event and photos/videos may also be shared publicly after the event. Please make yourself know to a team member at the event if you do not wish to feature.




Talking Transport: tell us your views and hear our plans!

Come along to a Talking Transport meeting: tell us what you think, ask questions and hear the latest news about transport plans in your area.

Integrated across bus, walking, cycling, rail and more – the Weaver Network promises a better experience for customers that gets you where you need to go, no matter how you choose to travel.

Your experiences will help shape the next steps as we improve transport across the region and create a cleaner, greener and more inclusive future.

Our Talking Transport meetings take place twice a year for each local authority, bringing together people who shape the way transport works in your area. You’ll get to hear what we’re doing to improve transport, locally and across West Yorkshire, and to ask questions and share your experiences.

Meetings are led by local Councillors who have responsibility for transport, in partnership with us (the West Yorkshire Combined Authority) and your local authority (Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds or Wakefield). Operators of transport services in each area are also invited to join the meetings and answer any questions about their services.

Recent and upcoming dates

Our latest Talking Transport meetings were held in January/February 2026, on the following dates:

  • Wakefield (York House Hotel) – 20 January, 5:30pm-7:30pm
  • Bradford (Guidepost Hotel, Low Moor) – 21 January, 5:30pm-7:30pm
  • Calderdale (Brighouse 6th Form)– 26 January, 5pm-7pm
  • Kirklees (Marsden Mechanics) – 28 January, 5:30pm-7:30pm
  • Leeds (Avenue HQ) – 4 February, 5:30pm-7:30pm

Please refer back to this page or click 'Follow Project' on the right hand side of the screen to receive details of future meetings.

If you'd like to join us at an in-person meeting, you can sign up in any of the following ways:

  • Sign up on Eventbrite via the links above
  • Or email: yourvoice@westyorks-ca.gov.uk
  • Or phone: 0113 245 7676 (MetroLine)

For those who can’t join an in-person meeting, a recording of the presentations will be added to this page once all in-person events have taken place. Please use the ‘Question and Answer’ section below or email yourvoice@westyorks-ca.gov.uk to ask the team any questions you may have.

Past meetings

Presentations and notes from previous meetings can be found in the ‘Previous meetings’ section. Recordings can be found in 'Previous recordings'.

Registering attendance

We ask everyone planning to attend an event to book a ticket in advance. This is so that we can ensure that the venue is prepared for all ticketholders and that the event runs smoothly.

You can book a ticket up to midnight on the day before the event.

We make an effort to accommodate everyone who wants to attend, but those who have not booked a ticket may not be let in if we run out of space.

Please note: due to the size and public nature of these events, security precautions will be taken including an ID and bag check for all attendees on entry. If an attendee cannot provide ID, we will ask for the information provided during registration: i.e. email address, postcode.

Accessibility

We want Talking Transport meetings to be accessible for all and for everyone to feel welcome and included at our events. There is no typical attendee and we recognise that everyone attending our events has different needs.

All venues are checked for accessibility beforehand. When registering for the event you are given the chance to tell us about any access requirements which may affect your experience at the event. We will use the information provided and try to accommodate your needs.

We are also be happy to provide information about the event to allow you to plan your day for maximum comfort, including but not limited to: closest accessible transport stations, any available breakout/quiet space, seating arrangements, any refreshments provided or where refreshments may be available nearby, content e.g. flashing images or high volume, specific timings and when an event is expected to finish.

If you would like to discuss your visit to one of our Talking Transport events or to speak to a member of staff about your accessibility needs, please contact us by:

  • Telephone: 0113 245 7676 (MetroLine).

We look forward to welcoming you to our events.

Protocol for journalists attending the events

Journalists are welcome to attend these events. However, please note that these events are for members of the public to directly ask questions of our panel, therefore we ask the journalists in attendance not to ask questions or provide comments.

How will we use your data?

We only gather the minimum amount of information to ensure a smooth-running event. This includes your name, postcode, email and if you have any special access requirements that we need to be aware of in advance.

More information can be found in our Privacy Notice here on Your Voice.

Please be advised that a photographer/filmmaker may be present at the event and photos/videos may also be shared publicly after the event. Please make yourself know to a team member at the event if you do not wish to feature.




Questions and Answers

Do you have a question about Talking Transport meetings? Ask us here and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Email
loader image
Forgot password?
Didn't receive confirmation?
Register Now
Seems like you are already registered, please provide the password. Forgot your password? Create a new one now.
  • Share Dear Sir/Madam Hi there Could have a bus station in Armley and could we also have Number 16 in 5 minutes due in every bus stops in leeds and also could the age of under 22 could get free bus pass in full time education and also could have a bus coming from Armley to white rose shopping centre and Armley to Elland Road and Armley to Dixon Unity Academy in whingate. Thanks Shazad Mahmood on Facebook Share Dear Sir/Madam Hi there Could have a bus station in Armley and could we also have Number 16 in 5 minutes due in every bus stops in leeds and also could the age of under 22 could get free bus pass in full time education and also could have a bus coming from Armley to white rose shopping centre and Armley to Elland Road and Armley to Dixon Unity Academy in whingate. Thanks Shazad Mahmood on Twitter Share Dear Sir/Madam Hi there Could have a bus station in Armley and could we also have Number 16 in 5 minutes due in every bus stops in leeds and also could the age of under 22 could get free bus pass in full time education and also could have a bus coming from Armley to white rose shopping centre and Armley to Elland Road and Armley to Dixon Unity Academy in whingate. Thanks Shazad Mahmood on Linkedin Email Dear Sir/Madam Hi there Could have a bus station in Armley and could we also have Number 16 in 5 minutes due in every bus stops in leeds and also could the age of under 22 could get free bus pass in full time education and also could have a bus coming from Armley to white rose shopping centre and Armley to Elland Road and Armley to Dixon Unity Academy in whingate. Thanks Shazad Mahmood link

    Dear Sir/Madam Hi there Could have a bus station in Armley and could we also have Number 16 in 5 minutes due in every bus stops in leeds and also could the age of under 22 could get free bus pass in full time education and also could have a bus coming from Armley to white rose shopping centre and Armley to Elland Road and Armley to Dixon Unity Academy in whingate. Thanks Shazad Mahmood

    Shazad Mahmood asked about 2 months ago
    Thank you for your suggestion.

    As we introduce the Weaver Network and bus franchising, we are focussed on protecting services and ensuring existing services, stations and stops meet passenger needs as gateways to the network. As this network and our wider communities develop and grow in the future, we will look for potential opportunities for new bus stations, routes and service changes where factors such as passenger demand, site availability and funding would make this viable. We will develop a prioritised capital pipeline as part of the next delivery programme.
    Regarding your suggestion of free bus travel for people under the age of 22 in full time education, we are currently developing plans for what our fares and ticketing offer will be under bus franchising, when the Combined Authority will take control of setting this for the majority of services in the region. This planning includes considering how we can support different passengers groups, in line with the ambitions of our Local Transport Plan which are to ensure travel is inclusive and affordable for all, and to attract more people to travel by public transport. This needs to be balanced with ensuring we have enough money from fares to support the cost of running services and improving the network. Currently, through the MCard we work with operators to offer a discounted ticket range for people aged between 19-25 or in full time education, with further discount for Under 19s. We are also subsiding travel for all through our Mayor's Fares scheme which caps single tickets at £2.50 and day tickets at £6.
  • Share Are there plans to improve cross radial connections in Leeds? And, if there are, will you consider co-ordinating the timetables of bus routes using key intersection nodes (such as Moortown Corner), in order that they all arrive within a reasonably tight time frames to minimise waiting? Better waiting facilities at such locations should also be considered. on Facebook Share Are there plans to improve cross radial connections in Leeds? And, if there are, will you consider co-ordinating the timetables of bus routes using key intersection nodes (such as Moortown Corner), in order that they all arrive within a reasonably tight time frames to minimise waiting? Better waiting facilities at such locations should also be considered. on Twitter Share Are there plans to improve cross radial connections in Leeds? And, if there are, will you consider co-ordinating the timetables of bus routes using key intersection nodes (such as Moortown Corner), in order that they all arrive within a reasonably tight time frames to minimise waiting? Better waiting facilities at such locations should also be considered. on Linkedin Email Are there plans to improve cross radial connections in Leeds? And, if there are, will you consider co-ordinating the timetables of bus routes using key intersection nodes (such as Moortown Corner), in order that they all arrive within a reasonably tight time frames to minimise waiting? Better waiting facilities at such locations should also be considered. link

    Are there plans to improve cross radial connections in Leeds? And, if there are, will you consider co-ordinating the timetables of bus routes using key intersection nodes (such as Moortown Corner), in order that they all arrive within a reasonably tight time frames to minimise waiting? Better waiting facilities at such locations should also be considered.

    Beep asked about 2 months ago
    The initial network of franchised services will be comparable to the network prior to the implementation of franchising, reflecting the services operating at the point that the decision was taken to make the Franchising Scheme in March 2024. For the first round of franchise contracts, service frequencies will be based on present operations, which broadly reflect the current level of funding available and the ambition to create a financially sustainable bus network. This approach recognises that there are challenges and risks already associated with moving from a de-regulated to a franchised market for buses, and looking to do this at the same time as extensive revision of the network is something that is considered too challenging for the introduction of franchising.

    Whilst the approach outlined above reflects the general approach to be implemented for the specification of services for initial franchise contracts, a limited range of potential initial service improvements was outlined within the Bus Reform Assessment. These improvements reflected the Combined Authority having control and responsibility for specifying bus services. This means issues including multiple operators competing on the same or similar routes leading to the ‘oversupply’ of buses and / or uneven headways between services can be avoided.

    Proposed service improvements tested under franchising in the Assessment included rationalisation and improved timetable coordination on various corridors across the region which are currently served by more than one operator. Rationalisation of services and improved timetable coordination on key corridors which are largely contained within Franchising Round 1 (which includes the Leeds 1 zone) has been implemented in the development of the initial network service specification. Further rationalisation of services is proposed to be considered as part of the development of network service specifications for Rounds 2 (which includes the Leeds 2 zone) and 3, and at a point once the transition to franchising has been implemented in full.

    Whilst it is possible to make changes during the transition to franchising, and these are being actively considered, it is proposed to undertake a more fundamental review of services once the first contracts have been established across the full franchised network. Franchising does give the Combined Authority the ability to set routes, fares and frequencies which will allow us, over time, to review the network to ensure it is serving West Yorkshire communities effectively. This aligns to our vision for an enhanced and more cohesive network as set out in our Bus Service Improvement Plan, with our ambition for a network to take people where they need to go, when they need to go.

    On your point about waiting facilities, the new Local Transport Plan (LTP) will set out a series of network principles for the Weaver Network, including that we want our network to be Integrated, Inclusive and Safe. A set of draft customer commitments included in the LTP form a proposition for customers using the Weaver Network, so that they are offered a familiar, consistent and trusted experience. The LTP also sets out in more detail policies to be adopted, to deliver on these customer commitments and realise these network principles. These include:
    • Removing barriers to accessing our network…..by making our Weaver Network accessible, ensuring that no-one is excluded. This will include improving access through new and enhanced infrastructure and services, including transport interchanges, stations and stops
    • Improving personal safety and security for all, in our places and on our Weaver Network, through design, infrastructure and service interventions, with a particular focus on the most at risk groups.
  • Share Hello. I’m a bus enthusiast living in West Yorkshire and with this I am looking forward to seeing the weaver network take shape. I’m also watching closely for updates etc about buses for weaver network. However I have one question, have the WYCA ordered any new vehicles yet or are they waiting until a closer date? on Facebook Share Hello. I’m a bus enthusiast living in West Yorkshire and with this I am looking forward to seeing the weaver network take shape. I’m also watching closely for updates etc about buses for weaver network. However I have one question, have the WYCA ordered any new vehicles yet or are they waiting until a closer date? on Twitter Share Hello. I’m a bus enthusiast living in West Yorkshire and with this I am looking forward to seeing the weaver network take shape. I’m also watching closely for updates etc about buses for weaver network. However I have one question, have the WYCA ordered any new vehicles yet or are they waiting until a closer date? on Linkedin Email Hello. I’m a bus enthusiast living in West Yorkshire and with this I am looking forward to seeing the weaver network take shape. I’m also watching closely for updates etc about buses for weaver network. However I have one question, have the WYCA ordered any new vehicles yet or are they waiting until a closer date? link

    Hello. I’m a bus enthusiast living in West Yorkshire and with this I am looking forward to seeing the weaver network take shape. I’m also watching closely for updates etc about buses for weaver network. However I have one question, have the WYCA ordered any new vehicles yet or are they waiting until a closer date?

    Liam2010 asked about 1 month ago

    Thank you very much for your enquiry. We are currently finalising our procurement process and we are looking to make an announcement in the near future. We recently held a consultation on what the public would like to see for various aspects of the new buses, from seating and digital connectivity to audio/visual announcement and accessibility. The Consultation Outcome Report will be published soon and you will be able to find it here: www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/onboardbuses

  • Share I’ve tried for months to speak with someone about using Towns Fund or similar local funding to support community transport. It feels like a secret service, and dependent on who you know. on Facebook Share I’ve tried for months to speak with someone about using Towns Fund or similar local funding to support community transport. It feels like a secret service, and dependent on who you know. on Twitter Share I’ve tried for months to speak with someone about using Towns Fund or similar local funding to support community transport. It feels like a secret service, and dependent on who you know. on Linkedin Email I’ve tried for months to speak with someone about using Towns Fund or similar local funding to support community transport. It feels like a secret service, and dependent on who you know. link

    I’ve tried for months to speak with someone about using Towns Fund or similar local funding to support community transport. It feels like a secret service, and dependent on who you know.

    15 days ago

    Response provided by Bradford Council:

    Bradford Council is working with partners to agree future place and regeneration funding for the Keighley area, such as Pride in Place. Since the Talking Transport event took place, Keighley Community Transport have been put in touch with Council Officers leading this work and are involved in the process to determine whether funding could be provided to enhance public transport access and provision. In addition we are aware that the group has been able to make contact with the Chair of the Keighley Town Board to discuss the matter further.

  • Share I looked at the new plans [for Huddersfield bus station] and there don’t look to be a lot of seats. We need more than we have now. on Facebook Share I looked at the new plans [for Huddersfield bus station] and there don’t look to be a lot of seats. We need more than we have now. on Twitter Share I looked at the new plans [for Huddersfield bus station] and there don’t look to be a lot of seats. We need more than we have now. on Linkedin Email I looked at the new plans [for Huddersfield bus station] and there don’t look to be a lot of seats. We need more than we have now. link

    I looked at the new plans [for Huddersfield bus station] and there don’t look to be a lot of seats. We need more than we have now.

    15 days ago

    Originally, there were 139 seats inside Huddersfield Bus Station (there are currently fewer than this due to some seats being removed during the Covid 19 pandemic). After the refurbishment there will be 220 seats inside the bus station, plus more new seats outside under the new canopy being delivered by Kirklees Council. The new seats inside the bus station are expected to be similar to those provided at Halifax Bus Station, but they will reflect the new Weaver branding.

  • Share How is it that TransPennine Express are able to use Marsden station without providing accessibility? I believe that Northern Trains used to use Platform 1, which has disabled access. Since TransPennine Express took over the contract, that is no longer used. It’s a perfectly good platform which would enable access, and yet it is not being used at all. It’s outrageous. They are breaking the law, basically. How is it they are allowed to? on Facebook Share How is it that TransPennine Express are able to use Marsden station without providing accessibility? I believe that Northern Trains used to use Platform 1, which has disabled access. Since TransPennine Express took over the contract, that is no longer used. It’s a perfectly good platform which would enable access, and yet it is not being used at all. It’s outrageous. They are breaking the law, basically. How is it they are allowed to? on Twitter Share How is it that TransPennine Express are able to use Marsden station without providing accessibility? I believe that Northern Trains used to use Platform 1, which has disabled access. Since TransPennine Express took over the contract, that is no longer used. It’s a perfectly good platform which would enable access, and yet it is not being used at all. It’s outrageous. They are breaking the law, basically. How is it they are allowed to? on Linkedin Email How is it that TransPennine Express are able to use Marsden station without providing accessibility? I believe that Northern Trains used to use Platform 1, which has disabled access. Since TransPennine Express took over the contract, that is no longer used. It’s a perfectly good platform which would enable access, and yet it is not being used at all. It’s outrageous. They are breaking the law, basically. How is it they are allowed to? link

    How is it that TransPennine Express are able to use Marsden station without providing accessibility? I believe that Northern Trains used to use Platform 1, which has disabled access. Since TransPennine Express took over the contract, that is no longer used. It’s a perfectly good platform which would enable access, and yet it is not being used at all. It’s outrageous. They are breaking the law, basically. How is it they are allowed to?

    15 days ago

    Response provided by TransPennine Express:

    Thanks for your message and for raising your concerns about accessibility at Marsden.
     
    To help improve access, a Harrington Hump was installed on Platform 2, which made it suitable for regular use. A Harrington Hump is a ramped raised area that can be added to a station platform in order to increase its height or accessibility width.

    Although Platform 3 has step free access, using it for stopping services created significant operational and performance challenges across the wider route, as trains take considerably longer to call there. Because of this, Platform 2 was identified as the most practical option for ongoing service reliability.
     
    The decision to use Platform 2 followed detailed risk assessments at the time, and the modifications were made specifically to support accessibility needs as far as possible within the constraints of the station layout.
     
    During upcoming Transpennine Route Upgrade disruption, services will be terminating at Marsden and a rail replacement service plan will be in place to help manage the accessibility challenges. Because there is more operational flexibility during these periods, TransPennine Express is exploring the potential use of Platform 3 for services back towards Manchester on affected weekends from April this year, where operationally feasible. At this stage, however, this cannot be confirmed.
  • Share People at the periphery of West Yorkshire are particularly badly served by the current way train tickets are subsidised. For example, residents in Leeds can get subsidised trains in every direction, but Marsden residents only have access to subsidised tickets in one direction. We're only getting half as good a deal but still paying the same amount to subsidise everybody else's fares. From Marsden, 32% of journeys are to Manchester, compared to 25% to Huddersfield and only 17% to Leeds. The effects of this are considerable for people travelling into Greater Manchester. For example, an Anytime Day Single from Marsden to Manchester is £13.10, but the same ticket from Greenfield to Manchester is only £5.30. In that example, the Marsden traveller pays 70.9p/mile and the Greenfield traveller pays 42.7p/mile to get on the same train. Therefore it's not surprising how many drive past Slaithwaite and Marsden stations to park and pick trains up at Greenfield. How the Weaver Network ensure rail users living at the fringes of city region are not disadvantaged? on Facebook Share People at the periphery of West Yorkshire are particularly badly served by the current way train tickets are subsidised. For example, residents in Leeds can get subsidised trains in every direction, but Marsden residents only have access to subsidised tickets in one direction. We're only getting half as good a deal but still paying the same amount to subsidise everybody else's fares. From Marsden, 32% of journeys are to Manchester, compared to 25% to Huddersfield and only 17% to Leeds. The effects of this are considerable for people travelling into Greater Manchester. For example, an Anytime Day Single from Marsden to Manchester is £13.10, but the same ticket from Greenfield to Manchester is only £5.30. In that example, the Marsden traveller pays 70.9p/mile and the Greenfield traveller pays 42.7p/mile to get on the same train. Therefore it's not surprising how many drive past Slaithwaite and Marsden stations to park and pick trains up at Greenfield. How the Weaver Network ensure rail users living at the fringes of city region are not disadvantaged? on Twitter Share People at the periphery of West Yorkshire are particularly badly served by the current way train tickets are subsidised. For example, residents in Leeds can get subsidised trains in every direction, but Marsden residents only have access to subsidised tickets in one direction. We're only getting half as good a deal but still paying the same amount to subsidise everybody else's fares. From Marsden, 32% of journeys are to Manchester, compared to 25% to Huddersfield and only 17% to Leeds. The effects of this are considerable for people travelling into Greater Manchester. For example, an Anytime Day Single from Marsden to Manchester is £13.10, but the same ticket from Greenfield to Manchester is only £5.30. In that example, the Marsden traveller pays 70.9p/mile and the Greenfield traveller pays 42.7p/mile to get on the same train. Therefore it's not surprising how many drive past Slaithwaite and Marsden stations to park and pick trains up at Greenfield. How the Weaver Network ensure rail users living at the fringes of city region are not disadvantaged? on Linkedin Email People at the periphery of West Yorkshire are particularly badly served by the current way train tickets are subsidised. For example, residents in Leeds can get subsidised trains in every direction, but Marsden residents only have access to subsidised tickets in one direction. We're only getting half as good a deal but still paying the same amount to subsidise everybody else's fares. From Marsden, 32% of journeys are to Manchester, compared to 25% to Huddersfield and only 17% to Leeds. The effects of this are considerable for people travelling into Greater Manchester. For example, an Anytime Day Single from Marsden to Manchester is £13.10, but the same ticket from Greenfield to Manchester is only £5.30. In that example, the Marsden traveller pays 70.9p/mile and the Greenfield traveller pays 42.7p/mile to get on the same train. Therefore it's not surprising how many drive past Slaithwaite and Marsden stations to park and pick trains up at Greenfield. How the Weaver Network ensure rail users living at the fringes of city region are not disadvantaged? link

    People at the periphery of West Yorkshire are particularly badly served by the current way train tickets are subsidised. For example, residents in Leeds can get subsidised trains in every direction, but Marsden residents only have access to subsidised tickets in one direction. We're only getting half as good a deal but still paying the same amount to subsidise everybody else's fares. From Marsden, 32% of journeys are to Manchester, compared to 25% to Huddersfield and only 17% to Leeds. The effects of this are considerable for people travelling into Greater Manchester. For example, an Anytime Day Single from Marsden to Manchester is £13.10, but the same ticket from Greenfield to Manchester is only £5.30. In that example, the Marsden traveller pays 70.9p/mile and the Greenfield traveller pays 42.7p/mile to get on the same train. Therefore it's not surprising how many drive past Slaithwaite and Marsden stations to park and pick trains up at Greenfield. How the Weaver Network ensure rail users living at the fringes of city region are not disadvantaged?

    Mark Drury asked about 1 month ago

    Many thanks for your question. The Combined Authority recognises that long‑standing cross‑boundary fare issues continue to disadvantage communities at the edges of West Yorkshire, particularly where travel patterns extend into neighbouring city regions. While rail fares are currently set nationally and outside the direct control of the Combined Authority, the introduction of the Railways Bill provides a clearer opportunity to address these issues. The Bill establishes Great British Railways (GBR) with a statutory role in setting fares, supporting the move toward a simpler, more consistent system and a unified ticketing platform, including improved digital and contactless retailing - changes that support the ambitions of the Weaver Network to deliver a seamless, well‑connected transport system across West Yorkshire.  Importantly, the Bill also strengthens the role of Combined Authorities and metro mayors in shaping future fare and ticketing strategy. As GBR develops its approach, we will continue to work closely with government, and together with our colleagues in neighbouring combined authorities, to ensure that fare reform reflects real travel patterns, supports cross‑boundary journeys, and delivers fairer, better‑value options for passengers across West Yorkshire.

  • Share Why were the Ross buses taken off that went from Castleford through Altofts to Wakefield? If anyone wants to go to Pinderfields hospital they have a long walk from the bottom of Altofts to Lee Brig or the Ship Corner to catch the 147. No wonder city centres are dying when you make it so hard for people without cars to get there. Most of the people affected are old people who now probably don’t get out of house. For just once do something to benefit local residents but the way your government treats pensioners I’ll not expect anything. on Facebook Share Why were the Ross buses taken off that went from Castleford through Altofts to Wakefield? If anyone wants to go to Pinderfields hospital they have a long walk from the bottom of Altofts to Lee Brig or the Ship Corner to catch the 147. No wonder city centres are dying when you make it so hard for people without cars to get there. Most of the people affected are old people who now probably don’t get out of house. For just once do something to benefit local residents but the way your government treats pensioners I’ll not expect anything. on Twitter Share Why were the Ross buses taken off that went from Castleford through Altofts to Wakefield? If anyone wants to go to Pinderfields hospital they have a long walk from the bottom of Altofts to Lee Brig or the Ship Corner to catch the 147. No wonder city centres are dying when you make it so hard for people without cars to get there. Most of the people affected are old people who now probably don’t get out of house. For just once do something to benefit local residents but the way your government treats pensioners I’ll not expect anything. on Linkedin Email Why were the Ross buses taken off that went from Castleford through Altofts to Wakefield? If anyone wants to go to Pinderfields hospital they have a long walk from the bottom of Altofts to Lee Brig or the Ship Corner to catch the 147. No wonder city centres are dying when you make it so hard for people without cars to get there. Most of the people affected are old people who now probably don’t get out of house. For just once do something to benefit local residents but the way your government treats pensioners I’ll not expect anything. link

    Why were the Ross buses taken off that went from Castleford through Altofts to Wakefield? If anyone wants to go to Pinderfields hospital they have a long walk from the bottom of Altofts to Lee Brig or the Ship Corner to catch the 147. No wonder city centres are dying when you make it so hard for people without cars to get there. Most of the people affected are old people who now probably don’t get out of house. For just once do something to benefit local residents but the way your government treats pensioners I’ll not expect anything.

    John Senior asked 2 months ago

    Many thanks for your question. Ross Travel made the commercial decision to withdraw service 125 which provided this direct link. It was withdrawn a few years ago due to declining patronage.

    In the current deregulated market bus operators are free to decide what routes and frequencies they operate. This is one of the reasons why the Mayor is bringing buses back into public control through Franchising.

    We are aware of the aspirations to reinstate this link, and while this continues to be challenging in the current deregulated market we are continuing to look at ways to find a solution.

  • Share How do you justify increases to basic bus fares for children and young people during 2025/6 of 33% (basic fare up from £1.20 to £1.60) - no longer 'half fare', when adult fares were held at £2.50? Many young people rely on buses to access school / college and most don't earn an income. In Scotland young people have free bus travel until into their 20s. on Facebook Share How do you justify increases to basic bus fares for children and young people during 2025/6 of 33% (basic fare up from £1.20 to £1.60) - no longer 'half fare', when adult fares were held at £2.50? Many young people rely on buses to access school / college and most don't earn an income. In Scotland young people have free bus travel until into their 20s. on Twitter Share How do you justify increases to basic bus fares for children and young people during 2025/6 of 33% (basic fare up from £1.20 to £1.60) - no longer 'half fare', when adult fares were held at £2.50? Many young people rely on buses to access school / college and most don't earn an income. In Scotland young people have free bus travel until into their 20s. on Linkedin Email How do you justify increases to basic bus fares for children and young people during 2025/6 of 33% (basic fare up from £1.20 to £1.60) - no longer 'half fare', when adult fares were held at £2.50? Many young people rely on buses to access school / college and most don't earn an income. In Scotland young people have free bus travel until into their 20s. link

    How do you justify increases to basic bus fares for children and young people during 2025/6 of 33% (basic fare up from £1.20 to £1.60) - no longer 'half fare', when adult fares were held at £2.50? Many young people rely on buses to access school / college and most don't earn an income. In Scotland young people have free bus travel until into their 20s.

    Zoe R asked 2 months ago

    Thank you for your question. Concerns about affordability for children and young people are completely understandable, especially when many rely on buses to reach school or college.

    The decision to increase the basic fare from £1.20 to £1.60—a 33% rise—can be explained through several factors that have shaped the cost and structure of the service since 2020.

    The single fare for young people was reduced from £1.30 to £1.20 in 2020 as part of the Mayor’s Fare Deal. No increases have been applied since then, meaning young people’s fares have been held for more than four years.

    Over the same period, the cost of running school bus services has increased by more than 80%. Keeping fares frozen while costs rise at this scale is no longer financially sustainable without reducing the number of services or increasing subsidies.

    Places on school bus services are provided on the basis that students travel regularly. If they do so, then they should pay no more than an average of £1.30 (based on weekly ticket, which is £13). If they are occasional travellers, the increase has a more limited impact.

    Scotland’s free travel scheme is supported by significant government subsidy. Local authorities elsewhere do not receive equivalent funding, so they must balance affordability with the financial reality of running services.

  • Share Is it possible to give feedback online? on Facebook Share Is it possible to give feedback online? on Twitter Share Is it possible to give feedback online? on Linkedin Email Is it possible to give feedback online? link

    Is it possible to give feedback online?

    LauraTea asked about 2 months ago

    Many thanks for your interest in Talking Transport. For those who aren’t able to join a meeting, we will share a recording of the presentation on our Your Voice page once the in-person events have taken place, and the Question & Answer function will be available for people to ask their questions to the team.

Page last updated: 11 Mar 2026, 05:00 PM