Mayors will play a central role in decarbonising our economy.
Tracy Brabin
Mayor of West YorkshireAs the Mayor of West Yorkshire, I’m acutely aware of the pivotal role our region must play if the UK is to reach its obligations on climate change.
We’ve already pledged to create a Net Zero carbon region by 2038. To help us get there, we’re supporting households to reduce their energy bills, protecting our natural landscapes and habitats, and building a cleaner and greener transport system.
My vision is for a region where active travel is the easiest way to make short journeys, car usage is vastly reduced, and public transport is the number one choice for longer journeys to get around the region and beyond.
In March, I took the decision to take West Yorkshire’s buses back under public control – the biggest shakeup of our transport network in decades. We have also started rolling out zero-emission buses, and we aim to have a fully zero-emission bus fleet by 2036.
A Mass Transit system is central to my vision for a sustainable transport network – helping to tackle the climate emergency and enabling inclusive growth. We’ve just finished consulting on the proposed tram routes for the first phase of the network – and I’ve promised to get spades in the ground by 2028.
Overall, we are investing almost £2.5 billion in Mass Transit, zero-emission buses, better bus stations, improved walking, cycling, and wheeling links, electric vehicle charging, and more.
Working with the Government, mayors are uniquely placed to play a central role in decarbonising our economy and creating a sustainable, Net Zero future because we know our areas and know what will work best for them.
Final Thought: The Wider Policy Imperative for Sustainable Transport Connectivity
Transport is fundamental to the UK’s ambitions for decarbonisation and sustainable economic growth. It is not only a means of moving people and goods but also a lever for social inclusion, economic equality, and environmental stewardship. Cities that are well connected by sustainable transport networks are more likely to attract investment, reduce inequalities, and improve public health outcomes.
The approach in West Yorkshire, as championed by Mayor Tracy Brabin, serves as a model for other regions to emulate. Public control of buses, investment in zero-emission fleets, and the development of a Mass Transit system highlight a comprehensive, multi-faceted strategy that can be replicated at scale. But this requires supportive national policy, regulatory reform, and sustained investment.
Nationally, there is a clear need for the Government to recognise the role of mayors as essential partners in transport decarbonisation. Local leaders have the contextual knowledge to design systems that meet the specific needs of their areas. However, this must be matched with funding certainty, devolution of decision-making powers, and alignment with broader Net Zero commitments. (Please see Chamber UK’s previous article detailing the government’s plans to consolidate local government into larger, unitary authorities)
Prioritising investment in active travel, public transport, and zero-emission infrastructure these initiatives will drive progress on climate targets, reduce dependence on private vehicles, and ensure transport systems are resilient to future challenges. Such investments also provide economic returns, with every pound spent on public transport generating significant social and environmental benefits.
Policymakers must ensure that the decarbonisation of transport does not disproportionately impact vulnerable communities. The shift to greener modes of transport must be affordable and accessible to all. Schemes that reduce the cost of bus and tram fares, introduce more frequent services, and provide safe walking and cycling routes are essential to achieving this inclusivity.
The policy direction outlined by West Yorkshire demonstrates how local leadership, backed by strategic national support, can drive significant change. It underscores the importance of public control, innovative funding models, and prioritising active travel and public transport over private car usage.