Review Raises Concerns Over Costs and Planning of West Yorkshire Tram Project

A government-commissioned review has warned that West Yorkshire’s proposed mass transit scheme risked wasting significant public funds due to unrealistic timelines and flawed planning.

The confidential report, obtained by The House magazine, suggested that early plans for the project were overly ambitious and driven more by political pressure than by a structured, evidence-based approach.

Carried out by the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), the review echoed concerns previously raised by Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, stating that a strong case had not yet been made for choosing a tram system over an improved bus network.

According to the report, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) showed a fixed preference for trams, with insufficient impartial analysis of alternative options. It highlighted that a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system could deliver similar benefits at a much lower cost, with a stronger value-for-money case.

The findings contributed to the decision to delay the project, pushing its proposed start date from 2028 into the early 2030s, with completion now expected later in that decade.

The government had previously pledged £2.1 billion towards the scheme, with Mayor Tracey Brabin stating ambitions for construction to begin by 2028. However, the review pointed to a disconnect between these targets and the actual readiness of the project.

It recommended that WYCA focus first on developing a robust business case before moving into delivery, rather than attempting to progress both stages simultaneously. The report warned that prioritising deadlines over proper planning could lead to unnecessary spending.

Despite the criticism, Mayor Brabin has continued to express confidence in the project, maintaining that the final system will be tram-based, even as work continues to demonstrate why alternative options would not be suitable.

A spokesperson for WYCA said the authority remains committed to progressing the scheme, noting that early construction has long been an ambition given the region’s long wait for improved transport investment.