The UK's first modern trolleybus scheme is one step closer to becoming a reality for commuters and residents in Leeds following the announcement of Government support today.
The plans, which have received Programme Entry status from Government, would deliver a high-quality rapid transport system similar to those in Athens and Lyon, to transport people into Leeds city centre.
Like trams, trolleybuses are powered by overhead electric cables. But while trams run on tracks, the trolleybus would use the road either alongside other vehicles or on its own segregated routes, and have priority at junctions on routes in South and North Leeds.
Transport Minister Sadiq Khan said: “This is fantastic news for Leeds. An efficient and reliable transport system is critical to any local community. This is why we’re investing significant amounts of money in infrastructure in towns and cities across the country.
“Today's announcement seeks to tackle congestion in the city at peak times, whilst presenting sustainable and practical alternatives to the car.
"This underlines the Government’s commitment to delivering major improvements in Leeds and the surrounding areas."
The proposals would mean a £235m contribution from the Department for Transport with the remaining funding being provided by local authorities.
Today's decision means that Leeds can move forward with detailed planning for the scheme.
The trolleybus scheme proposed is based on single deck articulated trolleybus vehicles, powered by overhead wires. The total route comprises North and South routes with Park & Ride facilities.
The North route will run via the A660 Otley Road, with a Park & Ride at Boddington, on Leeds Outer Ring Road and extending beyond this to Holt Park.
The South route will serving new commercial development in the South of the City Centre and to Stourton with a Park & Ride adjacent to the M621.
Rosie Winterton, Minister for Yorkshire and The Humber, said: “I am delighted at the Government’s investment in this exciting plan for major transport improvements in Leeds. It’s just what the city needs as we emerge from the recession.
“The trolley bus scheme is a huge boost for the city’s economy and will help to stimulate long-term sustainable growth and prosperity.”
Mike Bridge, Assistant Director at Regional Development Agency Yorkshire Forward, praised the development and added: “We welcome the Government’s announcement that they share the city’s vision for Leeds's Next Generation Transport (NGT) – the region has recognised the need for significant improvements to public transport in the city for many years, and we hope it will be implemented as soon as possible.
“The Leeds NGT will provide a high quality, highly segregated, rapid transit service with high capacity, greater reliability and faster journey times in and out of Leeds City Centre than existing bus Park and Ride services.
“It will provide a step change in the quality of public transport in Leeds and an attractive alternative to private car travel, which would also lead to a reduction in carbon emissions and improved local air quality.
“The scheme will maximise the Leeds economy by enhancing its competitive position and encouraging future employment and population growth. It will also improve City Centre accessibility from some of the more deprived areas of Leeds, and enable improved access to opportunities and an improved quality of life.”
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