Rural transport
We're here to address the transport needs both of people living in the countryside and those visiting rural areas for social and leisure activities, within West Yorkshire.
Our prime objectives are;
- To offer equal opportunity to access public transport
- To improve social inclusion and well-being
- To assist in a reduction of dependence upon private cars
- To meet or improve on Government targets for public transport accessibility
Funding sources
The Rural Bus Subsidy Grant (RBSG) was first introduced during 1998. This revenue funding was intended to pay for new or enhanced bus services, their marketing and administration.
The amount of RBSG allocated by the Department for Transport to Metro for year 2008/9 is £1,096,203.
This money is currently funding over 65 new or enhanced services, many of which operate using accessible vehicles. The RBSG also pays for the administration and planning of rural bus services in West Yorkshire.
The West Yorkshire Rural Transport Partnership (WYRTP) builds on the successful rural transport projects that were introduced in the sub-region under the Countryside Agency. Stakeholder Meetings are held in each of the 5 West Yorkshire Districts to keep in touch with rural communities and their champions.
The WYRTP aims to improve accessibility in rural areas and as well as working with Bus Operators supports Community Transport, cycling, walking, mobile service delivery and Community Rail Partnerships.
A West Yorkshire Rural Transport Programme has been put together, initially using funding obtained from Yorkshire Forward. Members of the WYRTP are consulted over the programme and are able to identify additional projects which need progressing.
The WYRTP is part of the West Yorkshire Rural Partnership, which aims to promote and deliver a sustainable future for rural communities in West Yorkshire.
