Plans for new West Yorkshire rail stations will be outlined through a revised long-term strategy for the region.
Metro, West Yorkshire`s Passenger Transport Executive, has appointed Steer Davies Gleave (SDG) to develop a strategy to prioritise locations in which new or redeveloped stations will be considered for investment.
SDG project director Jo Dent said: 'In the nine years since Metro previously reviewed proposals for new rail stations, Government changes within the rail industry have placed additional emphasis on the delivery process, together with the performance and capacity implications of new stations.'
A 59% increase in rail passengers travelling to Leeds from around West Yorkshire has also placed growing pressure on both the infrastructure and rolling stock throughout the region.
As a result of this increased demand SDG will assess the proposed new rail stations scheduled to be developed over the next 13 years.
In the new strategy, stations will be prioritised on the basis of: policy fit, technical and operational feasibility, integration and accessibility, economic and financial sustainability, taking into consideration the impact of the new stations on existing rail users.
'SDG recognises the significance of the study, especially in light of recent changes to Metro`s role as a result of the Local Transport Bill,' Dent said.
'It will inform future investment in new stations in West Yorkshire and the opportunity to assist Metro in prioritising which station sites should be taken forward for further feasibility work.'
The strategy will be completed by the end of May.
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