West Yorkshire rail agreement set to improve passenger journeys and strengthen network coordination
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin has signed a landmark agreement with the rail industry - marking a significant step towards a more integrated, reliable and passenger-focused railway across the region.
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The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and the rail industry – believed to be the first of its kind – brings together key rail partners operating in the region including Network Rail, and publicly owned operators Northern, TransPennine Express and LNER.
It sets out a shared commitment to work in partnership ahead of the creation of Great British Railways (GBR), the new national body that will oversee rail infrastructure and services to create a more reliable, affordable, and efficient railway.
The Combined Authority is already working with partners to deliver significant projects, such as the transformation of Leeds Railway Station, but the agreement signals a new phase in which the Combined Authority will play a more central role in shaping rail services and investment across the region.
The Combined Authority has set out long-term plans to modernise rail infrastructure alongside wider transport reforms, including bus franchising and future mass transit development under its “Weaver Network” vision for an integrated system across West Yorkshire.
The Combined Authority says improved rail coordination is expected to help support regional economic growth by strengthening connectivity between major employment centres such as Leeds, Bradford, Huddersfield and Wakefield, as well as improving links to neighbouring regions including South Yorkshire and the North East.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said, "This Government is backing West Yorkshire with billions in transport investment – from Leeds station to Northern Powerhouse Rail and the TransPennine Route Upgrade – and this agreement will ensure that investment works harder for passengers.
"Ahead of the formal establishment of Great British Railways, bringing track and train closer together and working hand in hand with local leaders will help cut through fragmentation and put passengers at the heart of the network – unlocking faster journeys, better stations and stronger connections to drive growth, jobs and homes across the region."
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said, “Our region deserves a modern rail network – and this agreement shows we are ready to take on a bigger role in shaping the railway, so it matches our ambitions.
“By working hand in hand with our rail partners, we can deliver more reliable services, better stations and a smoother, better-connected journeys for passengers as part of our Weaver Network.
“This partnership puts West Yorkshire at the forefront of rail reform, ensuring our communities see the benefits sooner – supporting growth, tackling the climate emergency and improving quality of life.”