Leeds could be set to gain the UK’s first modern trolley bus system after the city secured £235 million worth of Government funding.
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. If the system gets full approval, the West Yorkshire city gain a high-‘quality rapid transport system’ similar to those in Athens and Lyon’, the Government says. It would help slash carbon emissions and congestion in the city while reducing air pollution by providing an attractive alternative to car travel.
The planned project to build a trolley bus system in the city can now move onto legal and planning stages. A public consultation for the scheme is expected to open by next year after the plans for trolleybuses in the city were awarded Programme Entry status from the Department for Transport (DfT).
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.
While he was in Leeds, Sadiq Khan also announced Programme Entry status for a £15m scheme to help to improve access to Leeds City Station.
Rosie Winterton, Minister for Yorkshire and The Humber, said: “I am delighted at the Government’s investment in these exciting plans for major transport improvements in Leeds. It’s just what the city needs as we emerge from the recession.
“Both these schemes – the trolley bus and the new station entrance – are a huge boost for the city’s economy and will help to stimulate long-term sustainable growth and prosperity.”
