West Yorkshire’s leaders are set to unveil a landmark multimillion-pound budget today, showcasing the power of devolution in action while tackling the toughest financial pressures in a generation.
Mayor Tracy Brabin will outline her vision for 2025, detailing how the region’s £890m funding package will drive economic growth, boost transport infrastructure, and create opportunities for local people – all against a backdrop of public sector cuts and financial uncertainty across the UK.
Transforming Transport: A Future-Ready West Yorkshire
One of the biggest commitments in this year’s budget is the long-awaited West Yorkshire Mass Transit System, with construction set to begin in 2028. Chancellor Rachel Reeves backed the project in her 29 January Growth Speech, reinforcing its status as a game-changer for the region’s transport. Alongside this, the budget prioritises the transition to a fully franchised bus network by 2027, a move designed to improve services for passengers and bring stability to local transport.
Putting People First: Skills, Jobs, and Energy Support
With economic growth at the heart of the plan, Brabin’s budget introduces a universal skills system, ensuring that residents can access training and education tailored to the jobs of the future. The funding will also support locally-based businesses, making it easier for them to secure finance, upskill their workforce, and expand into new markets.
For households struggling with energy costs, a flagship home energy scheme will help residents invest in renewables, cut bills, and improve energy efficiency—a vital step amid ongoing cost-of-living concerns.
Safer Streets and Stronger Communities
Public safety remains a key priority, with funding allocated to support West Yorkshire Police in cutting crime and supporting victims. The budget will also back new strategies to tackle serious violence, as part of the region’s Police and Crime Plan.
Facing Financial Pressure Head-On
The budget acknowledges the severe financial challenges faced by West Yorkshire’s five local authorities, which are struggling to maintain essential services due to funding constraints. The new financial plan aims to provide stability while maintaining the region’s ambitions for growth and investment.
A Defining Moment for Devolution
Speaking ahead of today’s budget meeting, Mayor Tracy Brabin said:
“We are entering a new era for devolution, and we must ensure West Yorkshire is ready. This budget is about using our powers to grow the economy, create better opportunities, and put more money in people’s pockets. We have ambitious plans, and this funding will help us turn them into reality.”
With the government introducing a single funding settlement from 2026, today’s budget will lay the groundwork for West Yorkshire’s long-term financial future—but it comes at a pivotal time when bold decisions are needed.
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority will vote on the budget at 11:00 AM today at Wellington House, Leeds, setting the course for the year ahead.
Livestream of the meeting can be watched here: https://westyorkshire.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=133&MId=1401
