Go-Ahead Group: Bus firm could build new Leeds depot

One of the UK’s biggest bus operators could run services out of a new West Yorkshire depot if plans are agreed with the council.

Go-Ahead Group is seeking to convert a vacant industrial site in Stanningley as it bids for public transport contracts in the region.

The company said it was it was expanding after a programme of bus franchising was launched by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA).

A planning report said : “Go-Ahead is in the process of bidding for a number of local tenders which will operate in and around the Pudsey area, including daily service routes and some school services.”

The report said the Stanningley site was suitable as a base for its operations because of its proximity to the ring road.

A planning application to Leeds City Council seeks a change of use of the site, which has been vacant for around a year.

It was previously occupied by New Mix Concentre and Jewsons Building Merchants.

The report said: “Two existing warehouses will be used to store buses and operate as a workshop.”

WYCA’s franchising plans mean buses in the region will come under public control from next year as part of the Weaver Network.

The report by planning consultancy Litchfields said: “In order to retain a robust local bus service, there is a need to mobilise site works quickly to enable operation in spring 2027, and as such, the applicant would appreciate the council’s co-operation in ensuring a prompt decision.”

Go-Ahead is the biggest bus operator in London and also runs transport services in Ireland, Singapore, Sweden, and Australia.

The report said: “Go-Ahead Group has an established presence in the north of England, operating under the Go North East, Go North West and East Yorkshire Bus Company brands.

“Go-Ahead is continually expanding, having recently taken on a number of new routes serving the Wirral, expanding their presence in the North West.”