A new bus network has launched in Leeds this week with eighteen different lines running services every fifteen minutes.
New network maps, divided into zones are reminiscent of London-style coloured tube maps, with named and coloured bus lines demarcating different routes running across Leeds.
Known as the Leeds Core Bus Network, this is the product of over a year's worth of efforts by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to improve connectivity across the city and help bus users travel with ease.
As part of the new network upgrade, 2,300 bus stops will be receiving a facelift thanks to a £270 million pound cash injection into bus travel in and around the city.
A snapshot of how the new map looks / Image: Network maps First Bus
The implementation of the new network follows a sustained community outreach programme that found overwhelming support amongst local residents for the new, colour-coded map system.
Funding has come in part from the central government, as part of an overall allocation of £173.5m from the Department for Transport.
Local contributions have then topped up the investment to £183.4m.
Speaking on the new system, West Yorkshire's mayor Tracy Brabin said that she hoped the new system would not just make bus travel more cost-effective and efficient, but also pleasurable.
"I am therefore fully behind the creation of the new Core Network and as set out in my manifesto, I am looking at how travelling by bus can be further improved and more attractive. My plan is to bring buses back under public control and build an integrated transport system," she continued.
As part of the new network upgrade, 2,300 bus stops will be receiving a facelift / Image: Graham Robson
"As I have said before, if this kind of system is good enough for London, it is good enough for West Yorkshire.”
"I am looking forward to taking the bus and I am particularly excited by the real-time information screens at bus stops. I think the new bus stop flags which show all the services that run from that stop will be well very welcomed by passengers.
"I think in addition to the practical benefits to understanding routes, there is also the advantage that passengers can plan better day trips and fun things with family and friends as meeting people and going to new places will be far easier to plan for bus users.”
As women around the world swoon over Jacob Elordi, he's too busy loving rocks and sheep.
In case you haven't been on social media over the past week and managed to avoid the influx of paparazzi images, the hotly anticipated 'Wuthering Heights' adaptation is out soon and with that comes heaps of red carpets, screenings and glamorous premieres.
Famously set against the brooding hills of Yorkshire, Wuthering Heights by our very own Emily Brontë follows the tumultuous love story of Heathcliff and Cathy.
Played in the upcoming film by Australian heartthrobs Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie.
During the recent London premiere where Elordi was seen wearing a rather dashing green three piece, the stars were asked what they thought the 'sexiest' thing about Yorkshire is by HitsRadioUK.
A valid question to which Jacob replies "rocks and sheep". I mean, he's got a fair point.
Margot Robbie went into a little more detail, she said "Sunrise and sunset in Yorkshire is a pretty dramatic experience. The sky is literally like red and orange. I honestly couldn't believe it when I was out there. The landscape is stunning."
Why thank you Margot, we absolutely agree. She continues to shower us with compliments stating that the "People are lovely. Pubs are great. I love it"
It seems like Margot has got Yorkshire pretty bang on there, and if she ever needs any pub recommendations then we'll absolutely help her out.
Jacob on the other hand, we know rocks and sheep are sexy but...have you ever met us?
Hopefully he fell in love with our county enough to come back, as we wouldn't mind bumping into him on a hike up the Yorkshire moors.
Popular Leeds gaming bar announces immediate shock closure after going into liquidation
Clementine Hall
Point Blank in Leeds city centre have suddenly closed after going into liquidation.
The popular gaming bar hasn't been open all that long, and was marketed as the country's first simulated shooting range bar.
Despite being a popular attraction since opening last year, the bar has closed immediately, unable to honour any future bookings.
Point Blank confirmed late this Tuesday 3 February that it had sadly entered liquidation, describing the move as “completely unforeseen and beyond our control.”
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Up until just a few days ago, the Point Blank branch in Leeds had been promoting events including happy hours, shooting experiences, and even a Superbowl event scheduled for next Sunday 8 February.
A statement on their website reads: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Point Blank Shooting has entered liquidation.
"This situation was completely unforeseen and beyond our control. Due to our Manchester landlord entering administration, our lease was lost as part of that process. This had a serious knock-on effect across the wider business, leaving us with no other option.
"After seven incredible years of trading, this is a devastating moment for everyone involved at Point Blank.
"If you currently have a booking with us, we are working closely with the relevant parties to gain clarity and provide answers. We kindly ask for your patience while this process is ongoing.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years — hopefully this is a see you later, not a goodbye."
Georgina Pellant -
30th July 2021 
