Proposed Leeds Trolleybus System Receives Backing

The Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) is due to be submitted on Thursday 19 September. If accepted, it will grant Metro and Leeds City Council the power to commission, build and operate a brand new trolleybus system stretching over 14.8km, running from Holt Park in North Leeds, through the city centre, and all the way to Stourton in South Leeds.

To give the submission a boost, business figures have voiced their support for the project. Jones Lang LaSalle, Leeds Civic Trust, Allied London, Hammerson, Yorkshire Design Developments, and SMG, who run the First Direct Arena, are among those who have spoken in favour of the £250m New Generation Transport (NGT) system.

Joe Swindells, Hammerson’s project director for Victoria Gate, said, “We believe that the delivery of NGT is critical to the success and development of Leeds. The high-end retail brands that we will bring to the city need to see that Leeds has a clear vision for the future, encompassing the short, medium and long-term, as well as the city’s commitment to a high-quality, pedestrian-friendly shopping environment.”

Ben Williams, general manager at the first direct Arena, said, “The first direct Arena is set to become a major attraction for Leeds, drawing in audiences from across the wider region and the UK, as well as from the city itself.

“Modern transport connections are going to be key to its successful operation. NGT offers the ideal solution, providing improved access to the city centre and its leisure attractions.”

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