Stuart Andrew (MP for Pudsey, Horsforth and Aireborough) today joined the Council, MPs from across the city, transport experts and business leaders at a transport summit to discuss plans for Leeds since the axing of the Trolleybus scheme.
The scheme was recently cancelled as it was seen to not be in the public interest, but Stuart today welcomed that the Council held summit with a range of stakeholders from different sectors to discuss the next steps forward. The Department for Transport has allowed Leeds City Council to retain the £173m, which would have been used for the trolleybus, to spend on a new comprehensive transport scheme for the city.
Stuart said:
"In my position as PPS to Patrick McLoughlin, I have been working hard to secure this £173m for Leeds, and will continue to work with the Department for Transport to ensure the money is spent wisely. That's why I'm pleased the Council called this important summit, and invited a range of people to talk about the best way forward.
"For me, that involves a tram train which links to the airport, upgraded energy efficient buses and better links between Leeds and Bradford. I'm going to continue pushing for this, as businesses are keen to invest. I am concerned that this investment could be lost if we do not work towards a long term solution for transport in Leeds though, and we need to work hard with partners and providers to deliver it.
"The summit was very productive, and I look forward to working with colleagues across the transport sector and different political parties, to achieve a first rate system for a first rate city."