By KLTV Newsdesk –

New identity promises clarity, connection and pride as region moves towards an integrated transport system

A new chapter for public transport in West Yorkshire has officially begun with the unveiling of the Weaver Network – a bold, unified brand that will bring together buses, trains, trams and active travel under one identity.

Launched today (Monday 12 May) by Mayor Tracy Brabin and the region’s five council leaders at Millennium Square in Leeds, the brand marks a major milestone in efforts to simplify and modernise travel across the region.

Inspired by West Yorkshire’s rich textile heritage and shaped through cultural collaboration, including input from Poet Laureate and local resident Simon Armitage, the Weaver Network name symbolises the threads connecting people with places and communities.

Designed for Clarity, Built for the Future

The brand is the result of extensive research into the region’s cultural identity and transport needs, and will be gradually introduced to ensure cost effectiveness.

The roll-out will begin with existing planned upgrades to bus stops and stations, followed by a wider adoption once buses come under local control in 2027.

The identity will also extend to the new West Yorkshire tram system, due to begin construction in 2028.

Mayor Tracy Brabin said: “For too long, our region has suffered from a disjointed, confusing, and increasingly hard-to-navigate public transport system.

“The Weaver Network is a fresh, modern identity for transport in West Yorkshire, reflecting our greater powers through devolution, as well as our ongoing work to bring buses back under public control and create a fully-integrated mass transit network.

“This will help us on our journey to creating a transport system that is easier to use, and demonstrates our ambition to create a better-connected region that works for all.”

From Metro to Weaver

The new identity will gradually replace the long-standing Metro brand, first introduced in 1974, along with associated sub-brands such as Leeds Park and Ride and CityConnect.

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) confirmed the rebranding decision in January 2025.

Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, Chair of the WYCA Transport Committee, commented: “Our role within public transport in the region is constantly evolving – the Metro brand was created in 1974, and our organisation’s roles and responsibilities have changed immeasurably since then.

“With the Mayor’s decision to take back control of the bus network, we are now moving towards a fully integrated transport network under one brand, replacing about 19 different brands currently in use.

“The Weaver Network will reflect a public transport network that the region can be proud of, while helping the public to understand who is responsible for helping them travel to where they need to be.”

Cultural Threads Woven Into the Network

The new name and visual identity have been shaped by voices from across the region, including Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, who shared his thoughts on its significance: “I was pleased and proud to be part of a conversation about the naming of the future transport network – I’m West Yorkshire born and bred, a public transport user, a geography graduate and a poet – in many ways it was the perfect invitation.

“To me, The Weaver Network name symbolises the threads connecting people with places, shuttling to and fro, built on heritage and creating new ties and links.”

Practical Rollout

While the transition is underway, existing services will remain unchanged, and current tickets and passes will continue to be valid.

Information and support remain accessible via MetroLine or by calling 0113 245 7676.

The first phase of franchised bus services, where routes, fares and standards will be set locally, is expected by March 2027.

As well as simplifying travel, the Weaver Network aims to celebrate West Yorkshire’s heritage and cultural diversity, while delivering a more joined-up, reliable, and user-friendly transport experience.