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.
A popular restaurant chain has closed permanently in Leeds city centre.
Popular pizzeria Franco Manca has closed its Leeds restaurant.
The chain was famed for its relaxed atmosphere, quick service and affordable sourdough Neapolitan pizzas that were on offer for as little as a fiver.
The chain occupied the site on the outskirts of Trinity Shopping Centre on Trinity Street, next door to Itsu and overlooking the back entrance of Marks and Spencer.
Hoardings have now gone up, signifying the site is now empty and Franco Manca has permanently closed.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This can also be seen on Google when searching for the restaurant branch.
It was announced earlier this year that a number of Franco Manca's restaurants would be closing across the country.
This was down to a reconstructing plan approved by creditors for the chain. The brand said it had been knocked by “disproportionately high” UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for hospitality.
Marcel Khan, chief executive of parent firm Fulham Shore, said at the time: “We are grateful for the support shown by our creditors today.
“Franco Manca is a fantastic brand with a strong heritage and loyal customer base. With this agreement in place, we will put the business back on a firm footing and press ahead with strengthening our customer offer and performance.”
The Leeds brand was not included in the initial list of restaurant closing, but it seems further closures were made.
Miami-inspired Leeds bodega to open second site in Horsforth following huge success of first
Clementine Hall
A sandwich shop in Leeds is expanding to the suburbs.
Famed for it’s toasted Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and loaded breakfast bagels - Alfonsos Deli has made a name for itself for serving some of the best sandwiches around the city.
Such a good reputation in fact, that they’ve just announced a second location over in the leafy suburb of Horsforth. Get in.
Currently, you'll find Alfonso's in the Grand Arcade where their light-filled and airy space is slinging out sandwiches non-stop until sell-out.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's not just sandwiches, though. They're also serving up fantastic Cuban coffee, beer and even Cuban cigars.
Basically, it's everything you'd expect to find in a deli in Miami.
The team shared the news of the expansion on social media, confirming that a brand-new Horsforth site is on the way.
While an official opening date is yet to be revealed, the announcement has already sparked plenty of excitement among loyal customers, many of whom have been calling for a second location since the deli first opened.
Alfonso's has built a devoted following in Leeds, with its signature Cubano sandwich becoming a firm favourite, while its breakfast bagels draw queues of hungover punters through the doors.
The move to Horsforth marks the next chapter for the independent business, bringing its popular menu to a whole new neighbourhood. And they're in fantastic company too, in a suburb that is flourishing with independent local businesses.
If the success of the Grand Arcade site is anything to go by, the new deli is likely to be just as busy from day one. More details, including an opening date and the full menu, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Good luck to the team, we can't wait to check it out.
Sophie Smith -
12th October 2021 
