A meeting concluded that a proposed parkway station for Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is “absolutely critical” for the region. Councillors from across West Yorkshire voted for the plans for a rail station to serve the airport, with the leader of Bradford Council saying he was “delighted” to support the scheme.
Leeds Bradford Airport parkway station
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority received an update on the plans at a meeting on Thursday. During the meeting, Tracy Brabin, the West Yorkshire mayor, said she was determined to ensure the station was finally approved.
Plans for a proposed parkway station for Leeds Bradford Airport were first proposed over a decade ago, and an outline business case was approved in 2010. Members heard that discussions on a full business case for the station could take two years.
The benefits of a new parkway station
A report to members said a parkway station could be built on the Harrogate line. Passengers would travel to the airport by a shuttle bus, and the station would be built between Horsforth Station and Bramhope Tunnel.
Tracy Brabin said:
“This station has long been an ambition for our region. I know some have been frustrated by the pace of progress, but this development will be a game changer.
“I am determined to make sure that this project finally gets approved.”
The station is estimated to cost around £65 million, and the report confirms that a new facility would increase the number of passengers able to reach LBA by public transport. Alan Lamb, the Leeds Councillor, said:
“This is absolutely critical for Leeds and the wider region. It is a tricky project to deliver because of the topography.”
Mark Casci, head of policy and representation at the Chamber, said:
“The Chamber is massively supportive of any efforts to build a Parkway Station for Leeds Bradford Airport.
“We would wish to see a positive and speedy decision made regarding its approval.
“The leadership team at Leeds Bradford Airport is very ambitious and its recent refurbishment is delivering a much better passenger experience, but the key next step is connectivity and new routes, something the station will enable.”
A new parkway station would help develop a Northwest Leeds Employment Hub, a 36-hectare strategic employment site adjacent to LBA, and enable more homes to be built in the area.
What do you think about this idea for a new station? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
