Support for ‘New Bus’ in West Yorkshire…

Over 75% of people in West Yorkshire would consider using a bus more often if First’s proposed ‘New Bus’ was introduced, according to a report by the operator. The operator’s report quizzed the public on its plans for the New Bus for West Yorkshire (NBfWY), which would see the introduction of a package of measures designed to achieve radical a transformation to bus services in West Yorkshire. This includes the introduction of new, iconic vehicles (similar in concept to the ‘New Routemaster’ used in London and developed in conjunction with Wrightbus), smart ticketing and aligning investment with infrastructure improvements through the West Yorkshire Transport fund to tackle congestion hotspots.

Once a ‘Bus Partnership’ framework is in place and there is clarity on West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s medium to long term Bus Strategy, First will work with partners to identify a potential corridor for a New Bus for West Yorkshire pilot operation. First’s report found that 77% of respondents would consider using bus services more if the proposal was introduced. On all measurements, passengers rated the proposed bus highly. 85% of respondents thought that the layout of the new bus was either ‘good’ or ‘very good’ and 95% said they would welcome next stop information on bus services. Respondents commented that audio-visual announcements would increase their bus use by giving them more confidence to travel independently and on unfamiliar routes. 64% of respondents said smartcards would be their preferred method of payment.

First’s Head of Commercial, Paul Turner, said, ‘The consultation has shown potential for a substantial increase in bus use across the county. Through engaging with the public of West Yorkshire we have been able to better understand their transport needs and concerns and we would like to thank all of those who took part in the consultation and provided their feedback. Working with our partners, we will use the results to inform future bus design.’
Visit http://issuu.com/firstnorthregion/docs/report to see the report.

…as WYCA develops 20 year vision

West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) is developing a Single Transport Plan (STP) for West Yorkshire. The new Plan will be a 20 year vision that is expected to develop an effective, efficient and integrated transport network that supports sustainable and low carbon economic growth for the Leeds City Region. WYCA is keen to invite individuals and organisations to contribute to shaping the plan and has begun a five week public engagement exercise. More information, including the emerging core principles for the new Plan and a link to an online questionnaire can be found at www.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/stp-survey

WYCA Chair and Wakefield Council Leader, Cllr Peter Box, said, ‘The Combined Authority’s ambition is to underpin economic growth and housing development across the City Region by investing £1bn in projects to develop a quick, convenient and clean, integrated transport network. The Single Transport Plan also supports the delivery of the Leeds City Region Strategic Economic Plan (SEP), so it is important that at each stage we take on board the views of individuals and organisations to ensure we are developing a plan that matches their needs and expectations.’

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