Rishi Sunak has announced that he is officially scrapping the northern leg of the HS2 train line - and quietly announced that the leftover money will be used to build a tram network in Leeds.
Rumours had been swirling all week that the PM would announce the termination of the HS2 project, a train network that was supposed to be 'the backbone of Britain's transport network'.
Sure enough, he took to the stage in Manchester today to confirm in his keynote speech that HS2 would be scrapped north of Birmingham.
BUT in a surprise twist, Mr Sunak then announced details of a 'Network North' scheme that would improve the infrastructure between and around northern cities.
And that apparently includes a tram network around Leeds...
It's been such a long-running promise that our city would once again have trams tooting around that it's become a bit of a local joke (it even became an April Fool's joke last year).
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.
We've been promised a tram system before, with the most promising proposal, which would have served the inner city, both Universities and Headingley, scrapped in 2005 by the Transport Secretary after budget issues.
Rishi is now promising that Network North's smaller transport projects will be a better option than HS2, which he described as 'one delayed and over-budget project'.
And reaction to the news of a Leeds tram has been as you'd expect...
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."
Daisy Jackson -
4th October 2023 
