West Yorkshire Combined Authority has announced that it has approved its annual budget for 2024/25.
The majority of the spending will be focused on transport, as the combined authority looks to plan for Mass Transit. Alongside this, the initiative to cap bus fares at £2 across the region, and further improvements to bus services, will be continued with the support of the funding.
As the budget looks to secure the future of the region, improved access to skills and employment will be another feature of the budget, helping to give communities access to better opportunities. This will be complemented by almost £500 million worth of spending on infrastructure projects.
Mayor Tracy Brabin said:
“Devolution is working for West Yorkshire, and I am proud of the work we have done over the past year to drive economic growth, boost skills, and lay the groundwork for an accessible and reliable public transport network.
“But we should be under no illusions about the financial challenges facing our local authority partners. We are supporting where we can, but town halls must be properly funded by government to deliver frontline services, otherwise, our potential will be held back.
"This balanced and fair budget that we have agreed today will deliver on our long-term plan and lasting change for the people of West Yorkshire as we create a region that works for all.”
Another feature of the budget is the backing that will be given to cultural events, one of which sees City of Culture 2025 going to Bradford. Part of the build-up to UK City of Culture 2025 involves the delivery of programmes that put young people at the centre of the development of the event.
Image credit: iStock
