Leeds is set to get a new city-wide tram network as part of a 'transformational' mass transit plan for the region.
Incorporating historic tramlines uncovered by builders at the Corn Exchange last year, the new network will utilise some of the city's long-lost routes as well as creating some brand new ones.
According to reports, the inner-city network is being brought in instead of the long-promised High Speed 2 (HS2) railway link from Leeds to London, which was scrapped by government ministers at the end of last year.
Councillors have now been told that Leeds will now receive an inner-city tram network by way of 'compensation'.
The news follows the announcement that the Manchester to Leeds HS2 leg has officially been scrapped by government ministers, with some hoping that the new tram line will serve as an appeasement to locals.
The idea was first made public by The Mail on Sunday last November, with a government source telling the paper at the time: "We are considering improvements to bring Leeds into line with other cities.”
Back in 2019, Prime Minister Boris Johnson also said it was “madness that Leeds should be the largest city in Europe with no metro rail system”.
Now, it appears that the city is to be 'levelled up' as promised after all.
The old tram network in Leeds ran until 1959. / Image: Patrick Howley
Leeds of course did have a transit system that ran across the city from 1871 – 1959, using a combination of horse-drawn, steam and electric trams over time.
However, due to the trams being deemed unaffordable by the City Council following the Second World War, they ultimately closed – and have been missed in the city ever since.
At present, Leeds is the largest city in Western Europe without a built-in transport system, but if the Birmingham – Leeds line of HS2 is scrapped and new tram plans are approved by ministers, this could become a statistic of the past.
This is not the first time Leeds has been promised a new tram network, however. Plans for a network across the city centre have been going on for quite some time.
The plans were finally scrapped in 2005 by the Transport Secretary after budget issues, but the proposed track would have served the inner city, both Universities and Headingley.
Leeds supertram plans were disbanded in 2005 but the plans are still available online. / Image: Open Street Map
The three lines would have run from Tingley, Bodington and Grimes Dyke and joined in the city centre at stations on Albion Street, Eastgate, Boar Lane and City Square.
Last summer, builders unearthed historic tram tracks more than 60 years old -leading to calls from the public to restore the lines to their former glory.
Now, at last, residents' calls are being made into a reality - as Leeds City council has confirmed plans to restore the lines and bring trams back to Leeds as early as the end of 2022.
In a statement, Councillor Joe KS Mc'Gee said: "The people of Leeds have long called for the restoration of the city's historic tram lines, and today we can confirm that this desire is finally set to become a reality.
"We are thrilled that the decision has been made to reinstate this integral piece of the city's culture and Leeds is now being brought in line with other major citys across the UK."
Silver's Deli is opening up a sister shop, and this time it's about everything baked.
We all know and love Silver's Deli for their stacked subs and breakfast sandwiches that could cure any hangover no matter how severe.
They're so good, that they even bagged the coveted Uber Eats Restaurant of the Year Award last year.
And rightly so, because Silver's is absolutely class.
And it seems there's just no stopping Silver's, as they've just announced that they'll be opening a sister shop named Silver's Bakehouse serving up everything, yep you guessed it, baked.
It'll also be in Farsley where the original Silver's is, and they're labelling the new venture as 'your neighbourhood bake shop'.
Announcing the very exciting news to Instagram, Silver's Deli said: "Well it’s happening. I said no more shops, but it’s kinda necessary, and I just love all things baked.
"There’s waaaaaaaaay too many details to share on this right now, but go give our sister shop @silvers_bakehouse a new follow and hold on tight. This is gonna be fun as fuck."
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Customers can expect a wider range of Silver's goodies that they're unable to whip up in the current space. From soft amaretti biscuits and their famous cookies to sausage rolls and brownies that the team have been working on for 12 months.
We're in no doubt that this venture is going to be absolutely brilliant, and you best believe we'll be first in line to try one of those brownies.
Silver's Bakehouse will be located on Town Street in Farsley and is expected to open this May.
Behind the doors of a former church that has been renovated into a beautiful home in North Yorkshire
Clementine Hall
Nestled in the North Yorkshire countryside, Fell View Chapel dates all the way back to 1846.
Ever wanted to live in an abandoned church? Well, now's your chance.
This former Methodist Church dates all the way back to 1846 and has all the original features to match.
If you can look past the possible ghosts that may be lurking, this one-of-a-kind property can be yours for just £450,000.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
Step through the original church door and you'll be met by a striking open-plan living space with a fully functioning log burner to keep you warm through the winter months, complete with a beautiful contemporary kitchen which has been renovated to the highest spec.
The floating first floor features a glass landing that overlooks the ground floor below, and of course there's stunning stained glass windows throughout the property.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
This architectural conversion has taken five years to complete and there's been no expense spared, the pulpit and pews have even been kept to really keep that churchy vibe.
Here's what the listing says: "Welcome to The Old Methodist Church, originally built in 1846 and beautifully transformed over the past five years into a truly exceptional home.
"This remarkable conversion seamlessly blends contemporary living with the building’s historic charm, creating a residence that is both striking and deeply characterful.
Image: Rightmove via Harvey Brooks
"Every detail has been tastefully and skilfully executed, carefully preserving original features while introducing modern design and comfort. The stained glass windows, original pulpit and pews remain as stunning focal points — a real marvel and a tribute to the building’s heritage."
The Hoot -
1st April 2022 
