By KLTV Newsdesk – 

Plans Unveiled for £27 Million Refurbishment to Improve Accessibility, Sustainability, and Passenger Experience

Huddersfield’s iconic bus station is set for a much-needed multi-million-pound refurbishment that promises to modernise the facility and make it more accessible for commuters.

The £27 million redevelopment, backed by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) and Kirklees Council, is designed to improve the overall travel experience for passengers while supporting the region’s long-term sustainability goals.

A Vision for the Future of Travel

The ambitious plans aim to provide a state-of-the-art bus station, offering a host of improvements.

A new entrance canopy will welcome travelers, while cycle parking and enhanced public spaces will encourage greener travel options.

The proposed changes also include improved shop fronts, real-time bus and rail information systems to help passengers with onward journeys, and increased safety and security measures.

One of the key features of the redevelopment is the introduction of a ‘Changing Places’ toilet.

This will be equipped with additional features to ensure the station is fully accessible to people with a range of disabilities.

Additionally, a ‘living roof’ covered in plants will be installed, alongside energy-saving features such as solar glass, reinforcing the station’s commitment to sustainability.

Mayor Tracy Brabin’s Vision for an Integrated Transport Network

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, emphasised the importance of the refurbishment in the context of the region’s wider transport strategy.

“As we create our integrated Weaver Network, it is vital that we invest in the region’s bus stations, encouraging people onto public transport,” said Brabin.

“We want to deliver state-of-the-art facilities that link people seamlessly with active travel routes, buses, trains and trams.”

She continued: “Please have your say on these proposals to help us build a better-connected West Yorkshire that works for all.”

A Key Part of Kirklees’ Regeneration Plans

Councillor Moses Crook, Deputy Leader of Kirklees Council, highlighted how the investment in Huddersfield’s bus station fits into the council’s broader regeneration plans across Kirklees.

“The investment in our transport network and facilities across Kirklees is vital in supporting the council’s wider regeneration schemes across our town centres,” said Councillor Crook.

“The proposals for Huddersfield bus station are focused on making traveling by public transport an attractive and accessible option for more people and will provide better access to jobs, education, and healthcare as well as connecting communities, family and friends across West Yorkshire.”

Public Consultation Open Until 17 August

A public consultation is now open, offering residents and commuters the opportunity to shape the final designs.

This follows a 2021 consultation that helped guide the development of the proposals.

Residents can participate in a series of drop-in sessions across Huddersfield or join an online webinar to share their thoughts.

The consultation is open until Sunday 17 August, with all feedback encouraged through the project’s online platform: http://www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/huddersfield.

Drop-In Sessions & Online Webinar

The following drop-in sessions will be held in Huddersfield, where members of the public can learn more about the plans and share their feedback:

• Huddersfield Market: Thursday 17 July, 10am – 1pm

• Online Webinar: Friday 18 July, 10am – 11am

• Huddersfield Bus Station: Wednesday 30 July, 10am – 1pm

• Huddersfield Bus Station: Monday 4 August, 12pm – 4pm

• Huddersfield Bus Station: Wednesday 13 August, 10am – 1pm

For those unable to attend the sessions or access the online consultation, alternative ways to provide feedback are available.

Residents can email yourvoice@westyorks-ca.gov.uk or call the Metroline Information Service on 0113 245 7676 (7am – 8pm, Monday – Saturday, or 8am – 8pm on Sunday). Materials are available in other formats upon request.

With the deadline to submit feedback fast approaching, local residents are encouraged to get involved in shaping the future of Huddersfield’s bus station.