Plans for new accessible buses set to be approved

Plans to replace a fleet of accessible buses in West Yorkshire with new low-emission ones are set to be given the go-ahead at a meeting this week.

West Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (WYCA) said the 33 new AccessBus vehicles will be "ultra-low emission" and fully accessible for users.

AccessBus provides a door-to-door service for passengers who are older, more vulnerable or have extra mobility needs, the authority said.

Regional leaders are expected to agree to the £6.5m investment for the new fleet of buses at a full WYCA meeting on Thursday.

The buses mean people who face barriers to traditional public transport can access shops, services and community facilities.

Tracy Brabin, West Yorkshire's Mayor, said having help to get around is a right that should be available to everyone.

"[It's] not just something that's nice to have," she said.

"AccessBus is a part of our Weaver Network, creating a greener, better-connected West Yorkshire.

"This investment will allow us to continue helping those who struggle to get to the places they need to go."

The current buses are up to 18 years old and nearing the end of their operational lives, the authority said, with the new buses being bespoke, with lowering floors and more space for wheelchairs and mobility equipment.

The authority said the new vehicles would continue being run by a service operator who was responsible for providing drivers and keeping the fleet in good condition.

Anyone is able to use the service, but passengers need to register and pre-book their journeys at least two days in advance.

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