Metro Chairman Cllr Ryk Downes has welcomed today's call by the Association of Train Operating Companies for further electrification of rail lines.

"Electrification of this vital 43-mile trans-Pennine link and the 26-mile miles from Leeds to York would mean significant economic and environmental benefits," said Cllr Downes.

"And with the DfT saying it is not currently planning to purchase new diesel rolling stock, the electrification of these key routes and the lines linking Leeds with Sheffield and Halifax, would strengthen our case for the new trains we need to meet growing demand," he continued.

"Electrification would significantly shorten train journeys between key centres across West Yorkshire and the north and would make rail a real alternative to the already overcrowded M62," continued Cllr Downes.

"We have already seen from our own successful electrification of the Airedale and Wharfedale lines how quicker services and smoother journeys on new rolling stock attracts passengers to the railways and away from cars."

Link to the ATOC news release calling for further lectrification.