‘Super authority’ would have £1bn for transport

A consultation period is now open on proposals to bring the five West Yorkshire councils together with transport authority Metro in a bid to grow the economy and create jobs.

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority, made up of leaders and opposition leaders from each council, would be responsible for a £1bn transport fund and accountable for a £400m economic investment fund.

The idea first emerged last year as part of the negotiations over the Leeds City Region ‘City Deal’, which saw the Government agree to hand over significant control over spending in areas such as transport and skills.

Supporters of the idea argue it will make it easier for councils to work together on economic issues and secure further powers and funding from Whitehall.

Leeds City Council chief executive Tom Riordan said: “In purely financial terms, delivery of the LCR City Deal will see significant investment in transport and economic infrastructure over the next decade, with West Yorkshire’s leaders, for example, committing to pooling and delivering devolved and local investment via the £1bn West Yorkshire Plus Transport Fund.

“The objectives for this local funding are strategic, for example prioritising interventions that maximise economic growth across the city region, irrespective of boundaries.

“In this way, it is anticipated that 20,000 additional jobs will be created which are accessible locally, and in particular reach of those living in the most deprived of our neighbourhoods.

“Delivering on this ambition almost inevitably calls for West Yorkshire’s leaders to reflect on the appropriateness of current decision making arrangements.”

The new body could be in operation by next April if the plans are agreed by councils and the Government. To view the plans, visit www.awya.gov.uk/combinedauthority before May 17.