Two major Leeds City Region transport schemes head the list of projects the Campaign for Better Transport (CBT) claims should be given high priority for funding.

New Generation Transport, the planned trolleybus network for Leeds, and proposed new rail stations at Kirkstall Forge and Apperley Bridge top the list of projects upon which the Campaign is advising to focus.

Stephen Joseph, the Campaign for Better Transport's Chief Executive, has written to the Department for Transport saying that evidence shows priority should be given to public transport projects in and around cities. They are also financially robust proposals with a very low risk of failure which would provide maximum economic stimulus, says Joseph in his letter.

Highest levels of support

"We have maintained all along that our proposed schemes, which have received the highest levels of support from local business leaders perform strongly in terms of benefits to the regional and national economy," said Metro Chairman Cllr James Lewis. "They will create thousands of permanent jobs, and help meet the Government's aim of narrowing the north south divide and reduce pressure on the local environment.

"The Campaign for Better Transport says that road schemes which it describes as bypasses through the countryside don't help transport problems, the environment or the economy, and has come out against four schemes in particular," continued Lewis.

"However I am convinced that our third bid, for much needed repairs to the Leeds Inner Ring Road which is already a key element to moving traffic through and across the City Region, also represents good value-for-money in terms of Government investment."

Link to the Campaign for Better Transport website

Links to information on:

• New Generation Transport,
• Kirkstall Forge Station
• Apperley Bridge Station