A new mobile app and Oyster cards are amongst some of the changes that Leeds City Council have proposed as the latest phase of transport plans are announced.
The long-term strategy, published by council officers this week, outlines the plan to increase accessibility of public transport and turn Leeds into a city where 'nobody needs a car'.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, the way we all travel has changed dramatically so the council want to invest in transport infrastructure that relieves peak congestion but also delivers a network for people that travel by train throughout the week too.
The latest solution to be discussed is the introduction of a London-style Oyster Card, where passengers can use the same prepaid card to travel around the city by bus or train.
This could also mean the introduction of a dedicated West Yorkshire transport app. Leeds City Council leaders explained that there are at least four apps dedicated already to travel ticket purchases but want to put all of the necessarily information into a single application that offers value for money to commuters.
Tackling expensive fares seems to be an integral part of the plans. The council have explained that they are going to form an 'enhanced partnership' with bus companies that will prioritise and measure the overall reduction of fares and ensuring the young people's fare is maintained.
Making alterations to the existing bus services in Leeds are going to be an important part of the plans. / Image: Leeds Buses
Introducing cheaper fares and improving the commuter experience will also help Leeds to meet their carbon targets. At present, the council have invested £380 million into the 'connecting Leeds transport strategy', which outlines a key goal of reducing up to 43% in CO2 emissions from transport by 2030.
The council also want to reduce car mileage by up to 30% and increase bus usage by 130% as part of their green transport plans. If more people are incentivised to travel by train or bus, the council hope that people will soon replace their car journeys with public transport.
The first phase of the public transport improvement programme covers the council's priorities until 2024. In this time, thirty infrastructure projects are expected to be completed, including: transforming the outer ring road and improving bus corridors; new railway stations at White Rose and Thorpe Park, as well as improving walking and cycling options within the city centre.
The finale of The Celebrity Traitors is hitting our TV screens next Friday, and there’s a big screening party happening in Leeds especially for it.
Don't panic guys, it's happening.
Fancy sitting down to watch one of the cultural events of the year on a big screen with dozens of others who are just as invested in the show as you are? Well, now you can.
And that’s because Belgrave Music Hall, one of the city’s most beloved event spaces and bars, will be hosting a finale watching party and we’re all invited.
Taking place next Friday 23 January, fans of The Traitors are invited to watch the finale which kicks off 9pm in the canteen.
Best part? The tickets are absolutely free and we've no doubt there'll be some banging drink deals on to get the party started.
We’re already searching our wardrobes for an item of clothing that remotely resembles a cloak.
Announcing the news to Instagram, Belgrave said: "The world famous Traitors finale screening is back at Belgrave! In the past we've been graced with the presence of OG Faithful @theomayne1, plus our Clauds has been known to make an appearance (please scroll for evidence)... twists and turns are promised 👀"
So to give this series of The Traitors a proper send off, get yourself to Belgrave Music Hall from 6pm and enjoy a few beverages with like minded fans whilst screaming at the screen as Claudia makes her way into the frame.
Whilst we're on the topic, has anyone got an incredibly glossy black fringed wig we could borrow?
Johnny Depp supergroup Hollywood Vampires have announced a huge gig in Halifax
Daisy Jackson
Hollywood Vampires are heading back out on tour, with a huge Yorkshire gig announced for this year.
The supergroup, which consists of one of the biggest names in Hollywood as well as one of rock’n’roll’s most iconic names, are set to perform at the AO Arena as part of a run of shows.
Hollywood Vampires is made up of A-lister Johnny Depp, as well as rock royalty including Alice Cooper, and Aerosmith’s Joe Perry, plus Tommy Henriksen.
They last performed with an arena tour back in 2023, making these their first gigs in almost three years.
Hollywood Vampires have now announced a return to the stage, with a show at the iconic Piece Hall in Halifax on 22 August.
They’ll be supported by The Jesus and Mary Chain, who marked their 40th anniversary in 2024 with a new album, Glasgow Eyes.
Johnny Depp supergroup Hollywood Vampires announce Manchester gig. Credit: Aaron Perry
Hollywood Vampires formed in 2012, named after Cooper’s celebrity drinking club of the same name where the aim was reportedly to ‘drink until no one could stand up’.
Over the years, the supergroup has worked with the likes of Paul McCartney, Dave Grohl, and Zak Starkey (formerly the drummer for Oasis).
A Three Presale for tickets will take place from 10am on Wednesday 21 January, followed by a venue presale on Thursday 22 January, then general sale from 10am on Friday 23 January.
Sophie Smith -
12th October 2021 
