A new consultation report has been released in support of a nation-wide Mass Transit network.
The report shows that more than two thirds of people surveyed across the region are supportive of plans to create a tram system initially covering Bradford and Leeds.
The feedback will help the West Yorkshire Combined Authority select its preferred scheme later this year, before consulting on a detailed version of the preferred route in early 2026.
The route consultation for phase one took place last year, and saw 4,845 individuals and organisations have their say on plans for the region’s biggest proposed infrastructure project in decades.
Image: WYCA
A report now shows more than two thirds of people surveyed in West Yorkshire supported the plans for a line between Leeds and Bradford, while more than three quarters supporting a line from St James’s Hospital to the White Rose.
University of Bradford Vice-Chancellor Professor Shirley Congdon said: "We wholeheartedly support plans for a clean, quick, reliable mass transit system, particularly one than connects Leeds and Bradford.
“Such a scheme will benefit students, workers, businesses and residents. It will help reduce carbon emissions and congestions, it will kickstart growth and entrepreneurialism and ultimately boost local, regional and national economies."
Image: WYCA
Whilst no decisions on routes have yet been taken, the route between St James’s Hospital and Leeds city centre supported most by respondents (L1) would run via the First Direct Arena, Leeds Beckett University, Millennium Square, East Parade and Infirmary Street, before heading past City Square and Leeds Rail Station towards Victoria Bridge.
This was then closely followed by the L2 line, running via East Parade and Park Row.
The most supported south Leeds route (L6) would run via Holbeck, Elland Road Stadium and Beeston Ring Road before finishing at the White Rose. This was followed by L7, which would run via Gelderd Road, Lowfield Road, Elland Road Stadium and Old Lane
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “The public has emphatically told us: ‘we want mass transit! This is our region’s biggest infrastructure project in decades and will help us deliver on the growth mission to put more money in people's pockets."
One of Leeds' longest-running pub will be closing.
The Cross Keys in Holbeck is a lovely little boozer.
And it's got a fair bit of history too. Dating back to the early 1800s, the pub has stood on Water Lane for more than two centuries, with its story closely tied to Holbeck's industrial past.
Back when the area was one of Leeds' major manufacturing hubs, the Cross Keys was a local drinking spot for workers from the surrounding foundries and engineering works.
The pub itself fell into disrepair and was abandoned in 1980s, before being brought back to life during a major restoration in the 2000s.
But now, The Cross Keys is closing once again.
Images: The Cross Keys
Announcing the sad news to Instagram, the pub said: "It's with a heavy heart that we share the Cross Key's will be closing its doors on the 3rd of October.
"The whole team thank you for your support during our time in business."
In classic Leeds fashion, the comments were flooded with support from fans of the pub alongside fellow local businesses.
One comment reads: "Absolutely gutted about this. I held my fiance (now husband’s) 30th at The Cross Keys and it was excellent and the team were so helpful and hospitable. So sad to hear this."
Whilst another said: "Gutted, the home of some great memories and significant pints in my life."
So, if you've had a significant pint in The Cross Keys and wish to bid it a proper farewell, you've got until Saturday 3 October to do so.
Brand-new ‘party pub’ to take over the old Revolution site on Call Lane after £600,000 investment
Clementine Hall
We hope you're ready to party Leeds, because a 'party pub' experience is coming to Call Lane.
Following a whopping £600,000 investment, Bonnie Rogues is preparing to open in the former Revolution site in Leeds city centre that will close this month.
After a major refurbishment, Leeds’ first Bonnie Rogues venue and the sixth site for the fast- growing UK brand will open in November 2026.
Designed as an all-day-to-night social destination, Bonnie Rogues combines live music, live sport, and late-night celebrations in one immersive venue.
From big nights out to spontaneous after-work drinks and even Sunday Roasts, Bonnie Rogues aims to offer something completely different from the traditional pub experience.
Expect live performances, crowd-involved entertainment and interactive moments in an atmosphere that flows seamlessly from day to night.
Russell Quelch, CEO of NEOS Hospitality, said, “Leeds has such a strong social scene and a real appetite for experience-led venues, so we think Bonnie Rogues will fit perfectly into the city.
"It’s a concept that brings together everything people love about going out - live music, sport, food, entertainment and great atmosphere, all in one place. We’re excited to bring something new to Leeds and can’t wait to welcome guests later this year.”
The Leeds opening forms part of a wider rollout of Bonnie Rogues venues across the UK, as NEOS Hospitality continues to expand its portfolio following its acquisition of multiple Revolution and Revolución de Cuba sites earlier this year.
We'll keep you updated with opening dates as and when we know more.
Clementine Hall -
20th February 2025 
