Consulting engineers Mott MacDonald and Jacobs have been appointed to design West Yorkshire’s new tram system.
- The initial phase aims to connect Leeds and Bradford through two tram lines as part of a larger mass transit network.
- Historical context highlights the return of trams after their discontinuation in the 1950s.
- The estimated cost for the new tram network is £2.5bn, with previous government contributions of £200m.
- Construction is anticipated to commence in 2028, marking a significant transit development in the UK.
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) has entrusted renowned consulting engineers Mott MacDonald and Jacobs to design the county’s ambitious tram system. This decision marks a pivotal step in establishing a comprehensive mass transit network that aims to initially connect Leeds and Bradford via two primary tram lines. Mott MacDonald and Jacobs will be instrumental in refining the existing concept design and offering crucial support through the first phase of this expansive project.
Historically, Leeds and Bradford boasted flourishing tram networks from the Victorian era until their closure in the 1950s. Despite numerous revival attempts over the decades, previous plans, including the Leeds Supertram, were shelved due to escalating costs, which had reached £1bn by 2005 under the then Labour government. The current scheme, projected at approximately £2.5bn, has seen an allocation of £200m from the former Conservative government to support its development.
Rob Leech, the interim director of mass transit at WYCA, emphasised the transformative nature of this initiative, stating, ‘Mass transit is a significant part of our ambition to create an integrated transport system for West Yorkshire. We are delighted to be working with the Jacobs-Mott MacDonald consortium who will support us to achieve our vision to bring mass transit to our region.’ His remarks underline the regional aspirations for integrated transport solutions.
The anticipated start of construction in 2028 signals one of the UK’s largest urban transit endeavours. The deployment of this tram network is seen as a cornerstone in achieving the area’s long-term urban mobility objectives. The first phase’s successful implementation is expected to set the stage for further expansion, aligning with the broader vision of sustainable and efficient regional connectivity.
The Leeds-Bradford tram project signifies a major advancement in West Yorkshire’s transport infrastructure, poised to reshape urban connectivity.
