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.
30 years on from the film that changed everything, and following its successful world premiere run in London’s West End, Trainspotting The Musical is heading out on a major UK tour later this year, and will be taking to one of Leeds' most iconic stages this winter.
Written by Irvine Welsh – as adapted from his best-selling debut novel – and directed and developed by Caroline Jay Ranger, Trainspotting The Musical has been described by critics as ‘radical, invigorating and life-affirming’ since its premiere.
It’s said to be an unforgettable production that’ll have even the most sceptical audiences leave on a ‘consciousness-altering high.’
In 1996, the breakthrough British film of the same name was released and became the biggest grossing UK film of the year, winning a slew of awards in the process – including a BAFTA for Best Screenplay, and even being ranked tenth in the BFI’s top 100 greatest British films of the 20th century.
Now, three decades later, the industrial drug crazed working-class heroes of British youth culture are back… but this time, live on stage.
“I believe the musical has a bigger, loudly beating human heart than either the book or the film,” creator Irvine Welsh commented as the UK tour was announced this week.
“People need to think about the world we’re living in, and we offer that inspection, but they also need to sing their hearts out and laugh their heads off. It’s what being human is all about. We’ve put together an incredible Scottish cast and I can’t wait to see them bring the musical to life.”
Trainspotting The Musical will taking to the stage at the Leeds Grand Theatre from Monday 7 until Saturday 12 December 2026.
Leeds speakeasy crowned one of the best cocktail bars in the world by industry experts
Clementine Hall
The beloved Domino Club is receiving its flowers, and rightly so.
Rapidly becoming one of the industry’s most respected accolade of excellence, The Pinnacle Guide is a worldwide ranking of the best bars across the globe.
Based on a thorough self-application process, rigorous assessment modules, followed by a series of spot check interviews and anonymous in-bar reviews, it's no easy feat to get a spot on this list.
Which is why it makes The Domino Club's achievement all that more impressive.
Known amongst locals and visitors alike as basically one of the coolest bars in town, the hidden speakeasy invites you through a barbershop in the Grand Arcade where downstairs you'll find a dimly lit jazz and cocktail bar oozing sex appeal.
Not only are the cocktails exceptional, but their live music listings is something to behold playing everything from jazz and funk to cabaret and disco every Wednesday - Sunday.
Announcing the news to Instagram, The Domino said: "Listed by The Pinnacle Guide. The Domino Club has been recognised on the global list of the world’s best bars.
"What began as a hidden basement bar in Leeds, built around live music, cocktails and atmosphere, is now being recognised alongside some of the finest bars in the world.
"A huge thank you to our team, musicians, suppliers and every single guest who has supported us over the years. This means a lot. Leeds belongs on the world cocktail map."
We absolutely could not agree more and if you haven't ventured behind the barbershop and discovered the magical Domino Club, then we very much recommend you do.
Sophie Smith -
12th October 2021 
