The project’s early construction stage is set to commence in 2028. Credit: West Yorkshire CA/Jacobs/PR Newswire.

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority (CA) has appointed a consortium consisting of Jacobs and Mott MacDonald as the Design Development Partner for the next phase of the West Yorkshire Mass Transit Programme, UK.

This public transport system aims to connect communities across the region with cycling, walking, and rail.

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With a population of 2.3 million and an economic output of nearly $95bn gross value added, West Yorkshire is Europe’s largest metropolitan area without a formal urban transit system.

The consortium will support the authority in developing the mass transit programme’s initial phases, which include light rapid transit.

It will take the existing concept design through to completion, providing the professional services and technical support needed to deliver the network’s first phase before the end of this decade.

The CA expects the early construction stage to commence in 2028, with phase one encompassing two lines serving Leeds and Bradford.

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The mass transit system is set to be one of the largest urban transit schemes in the UK, with plans to expand to other parts of West Yorkshire in future phases.

Both companies bring a wealth of experience to the project, having previously worked with the authority in various capacities.

Jacobs is known for delivering mass transportation infrastructure solutions worldwide, with notable projects such as the Elizabeth Line and the Transpennine Route Upgrade in the UK.

Similarly, Mott MacDonald has a strong track record with light rapid transit projects such as Transport for Greater Manchester’s Metrolink and the Cardiff Valley lines in South Wales.

Jacobs senior vice-president Kate Kenny said: “The Jacobs-Mott MacDonald consortium will support the CA in turning its mass transit vision into future-made designs that connect West Yorkshire’s communities, combat climate change, support a sustainable and inclusive economy, and improve people’s health and well-being.”  

Prior to their involvement in this project, in June 2024, the consortium’s members were selected, among other companies, to aid UK-based water company United Utilities in executing its environmental programme in North West England.