Design lead JV appointed as Mass Transit advances
Jacobs and Mott MacDonald will build on previous work with West Yorkshire Combined Authority as the body looks to release its ambitions for a tram system.
The appointment follows an 11-week consultation launched this summer on the first two routes proposed for the network, a consultation that closed at the end of September.
With a population of 2.3m and an economic output of nearly £70bn GVA, West Yorkshire is widely considered Europe’s largest metropolitan area without an urban transit system.
The Jacobs – Mott MacDonald design development partnership consortium will support the combined authority in further developing the £2.5bn mass transit programme’s first phases, which major on light rapid transit, but also extend to supporting active travel and better connecting different transport modes.
The work requires taking the existing concept design through completion, providing all professional services and technical support to deliver the network’s first phase before the end of this decade.
Jacobs and Mott MacDonald have already established relationships with WYCA, respectively serving as business case and environmental partner and supporting the mass transit programme through early stages including stakeholder engagement.
Kate Kenny, senior vice-president at Jacobs, said: “The Jacobs – Mott MacDonald consortium will support the CA in turning its mass transit vision into future-made designs that connect West Yorkshire’s communities, combat climate change, support a sustainable and inclusive economy, and improve people’s health and wellbeing.
“Our teams bring world-class experience on integrated mass transit systems that deliver a positive, sustainable legacy, helping communities flourish.”
Mott MacDonald global practice leader for urban transit and mobility Stephen Luke added: “With a long heritage in delivering urban transit systems around the world, including in Melbourne, Toronto, Manchester and London we are proud to be supporting this transformational investment to help drive economic growth, and to deliver social and environmental benefits for the region.”
WYCA’s aim is for the early construction stage to begin in 2028, with phase one to include two lines serving Leeds and Bradford – this summer’s consultation floated options for the precise routes of these lines.
Beyond phase one, WYCA will continue to work with West Yorkshire’s local authorities to enable future phases and hopefully act as a force-multiplier for regeneration.
WYCA interim director of mass transit Rob Leech said: “Mass Transit is a significant part of our ambition to create an integrated transport system for West Yorkshire. We are delighted to be working with the Jacobs – Mott MacDonald consortium who will support us to achieve our vision to bring Mass Transit to our region.”
Jacobs’ recent track record includes work on London’s Elizabeth Line and the Transpennine Route Upgrade, while Mott MacDonald has worked in light rapid transit systems including Greater Manchester’s Metrolink, and also worked on the Elizabeth Line along with the Northern Line extension.
