THE new “Weaver Network” busses that will be rolled out across West Yorkshire from next year have officially been revealed.
The buses will be part of a publicly operated bus network – the introduction of which has been a key priority for West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin.
Ms Brabin has been to see the buses being manufactured at the Wrightbus factory in Northern Ireland, and newly released images give a first good look at what the region’s new buses will look like.
Wrightbus won the contract to produce almost 200 new electric buses in May following a competitive process.
Some of the new Weaver Network buses (Image: WYCA)
These are the first vehicles which will make up a fleet of Combined Authority owned buses for franchising, which will be leased to operators.
Under bus franchising, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority will take buses back under public control, setting fares and routes in what the authority hopes will lead to a more reliable service.
The buses will be introduced in some areas of West Yorkshire in the Spring, but they will not come to Bradford until late 2028.
Inside one of the new Weaver Network buses (Image: WYCA)
Interior features will include USB charging, air conditioning and more space for wheelchair users, as well as flexible space for pushchairs and luggage.
The public were able to have their say on these designs during a consultation which took place earlier this year.
The seat covers will be produced by West Yorkshire based textiles firm, Camira Fabrics.
Speaking from the factory Ms Brabin said: “Across West Yorkshire we are already seeing signs of our new Weaver Network, with new bus shelters and the opening of Heckmondwike Bus Station.
“And seeing the new electric buses on the production line is another exciting step on our journey to franchising, before they’re rolling through our cities, towns and countryside.
“I can’t wait to see these new buses on our streets as part of a fully integrated transport network under the Weaver Network, providing a better-connected West Yorkshire that works for all.”
Christian Reynolds, Managing Director of Wrightbus, said: “We’re proud to be building the new Weaver Network buses in Northern Ireland and to have welcomed the Mayor to see the fleet in-build process.
“These buses will play an important role in the future of public transport across West Yorkshire, and we’re working closely with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to make sure they deliver the quality, comfort and accessibility passengers expect.”
The visit comes as the first contracts for the new network have been signed, seeing a mixture of operators taking on routes across Kirklees and Leeds, which will be the first services in operation.