Metro has welcomed the Government’s announcement that peak-hour commuters into Leeds are set to benefit from a 53% capacity increase, additional carriages on TransPennine Express, and reduced journey times between Leeds and Manchester.

"The announcement is an acknowledgement by the Government that there is a serious need for more trains in our region in the face of fast-growing demand," said Metro Chairman Councillor Ryk Downes.

"We now need to look closely at the details of the White Paper and discuss with colleagues at the DfT exactly what today’s announcement means for West Yorkshire and the Leeds City Region."

"While the White Paper goes some way to meeting rising demand in our area, more is needed to reduce overcrowding in line with other major conurbations , and Metro will be make that point to the Government and be calling for the investment required," continued Councillor Downes.

"Research has shown that measures such as further electrification of the network to make more, faster through journeys possible, additional stations and the introduction of tram-trains are key to tackle fast-growing passenger numbers, and we have made the case for them in our 25-year Transport Vision," he continued.

"If it is serious about putting Yorkshire commuters at the heart of its strategy for rail growth, as it claims, and it wants to enable the Leeds City Region to reach its full economic potential, the Government will recognise these requirements and work with us to achieve them."