West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin is set to present the region’s annual budget, outlining key investment priorities for 2025 and demonstrating the impact of devolution in action. The budget will detail how the region plans to allocate its £890 million in devolved funding, focusing on economic growth, improved transport, public safety, and essential local services.
Investing in Transport and Infrastructure: A major priority in the budget is the transformation of West Yorkshire’s transport network. Plans include preparing for a fully franchised bus network by 2027, ensuring greater public control over services, and progressing towards a mass transit system, with construction set to begin in 2028. The budget also commits funding to develop a strategic outline case for the West Yorkshire Mass Transit programme, detailing proposed routes and infrastructure investments for government approval.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire said:
“We are approaching a new era for devolution, and we need to make sure West Yorkshire is ready for that. We want to use these powers to grow our economy and ensure people have more money in their pockets. We have ambitious plans for our region and this budget will help us deliver that throughout the next year and beyond.”
Boosting Jobs and Skills: The budget reinforces the ambitions of the West Yorkshire Local Growth Plan, aiming to drive employment opportunities and equip residents with the skills needed for the future job market. A universal skills system will be introduced to support individuals in reaching their full potential, while additional funding will be allocated to help local businesses access finance, training, and market opportunities to support their growth.
Tackling Crime and Community Safety: A key focus of the budget is public safety, with investment aligned to the region’s Police and Crime Plan. This includes initiatives to keep communities safe, support victims and witnesses of crime, and implement a strategy to address serious violence across the region. West Yorkshire Police and partner organizations will receive additional funding to strengthen efforts in crime prevention and community support.
Support for Local Authorities: With local councils facing unprecedented financial pressures, the budget acknowledges the need to support West Yorkshire’s five local authorities in delivering essential services. This follows public engagement on spending priorities, ensuring that funding is directed toward the most pressing needs of residents and communities.
A Vision for Growth and Stability: Mayor Tracy Brabin’s budget presentation comes at a crucial time, as the region prepares for a single funding settlement from the government in 2026. Despite the challenging financial landscape, the budget aims to drive long-term prosperity, enhance public services, and create a sustainable future for West Yorkshire.
The annual budget will set the framework for investment and development in the coming year, ensuring that devolution continues to bring tangible benefits to residents, businesses, and communities across the region.
