West Yorkshire Combined Authority - Thursday 18 September 2025, 11:00am - West Yorkshire Combined Authority Webcasting

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Thursday, 18th September 2025 at 11:00am 

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  1. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  2. Ms. Salma Arshad
  3. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Ms. Salma Arshad
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair)
  2. Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  3. Ms. Salma Arshad
  4. Cllr Stewart Golton
  5. Ms. Salma Arshad
  6. Cllr Stewart Golton
  7. Ms. Salma Arshad
  8. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  9. Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  10. Ms. Salma Arshad
  11. Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  12. Ms. Salma Arshad
  13. Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council
  14. Ms. Salma Arshad
  15. Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  16. Ms. Salma Arshad
  17. Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  18. Ms. Salma Arshad
  19. Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  20. Ms. Salma Arshad
  21. Cllr Peter Kilbane (York Council)
  22. Ms. Salma Arshad
  23. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair)
  2. Mr Mike Birch
  3. Ms. Salma Arshad
  4. Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair)
  5. Mr Mike Birch
  6. Ms. Salma Arshad
  7. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  8. Cllr Stewart Golton
  9. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  10. Cllr Stewart Golton
  11. Mr Mike Birch
  12. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr Jane Scullion (Calderdale Council)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  3. Liz Hunter, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  4. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  5. Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council
  6. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  7. Cllr Stewart Golton
  8. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  9. Cllr Jane Scullion (Calderdale Council)
  10. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  11. Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair)
  12. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  13. Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board)
  14. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr Carole Pattison (Kirklees Council)
  2. Liz Hunter, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  3. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  4. John Roberts
  5. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  6. Cllr James Lewis (Leeds City Council)
  7. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr James Lewis (Leeds City Council)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  3. Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board)
  4. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  5. Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board)
  6. Sarah Eaton, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  7. Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  8. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  9. Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council
  10. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  11. Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council
  12. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  13. Cllr Peter Kilbane (York Council)
  14. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  15. Cllr Jane Scullion (Calderdale Council)
  16. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  17. Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board)
  18. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  19. Ben Still, Chief Executive (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  20. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  21. Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  22. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  3. Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  4. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  5. Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  6. Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair)
  7. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  8. Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  9. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr James Lewis (Leeds City Council)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  3. Cllr Carole Pattison (Kirklees Council)
  4. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  5. Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  6. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr James Lewis (Leeds City Council)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  3. Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board)
  4. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  5. Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  6. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr Carole Pattison (Kirklees Council)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  3. Cllr Carole Pattison (Kirklees Council)
  4. Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair)
  5. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  6. Liz Hunter, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  7. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  3. Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair)
  4. Cllr Denise Jeffery (Wakefield Council)
  5. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  6. Simon Pope, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  7. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  8. Simon Pope, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  9. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  10. Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council
  11. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  12. Simon Pope, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  13. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  14. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Kate Taylor, Director West Yorkshire Combined Authority
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Ben Still, Chief Executive (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Ben Still, Chief Executive (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  2. Jo Dent (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  3. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Ben Still, Chief Executive (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  2. Sarah Eaton, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  3. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
  3. Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair)
  4. Satinder Sahota, Interim Assistant Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  5. Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair)
  6. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Satinder Sahota, Interim Assistant Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority)
  2. Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire
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  1. Webcast Finished

Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:00:00
our corporate data reports about
how we can pull ten copiotics away and
make a prices even more severe.
Well, good morning, everyone. Thank you so much for joining
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:00:18
today's combined authority meeting.
We're joined today by John Roberts, Chief Fire Officer for West Shookshire Fire and
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:00:25
Rescue Services, who will be joining us later around the table to discuss the local remediation
action plan.
And I look forward to that conversation.
We've a really, really packed agenda today, so pardon me if I am going to be rattling
through some of these items.
And as always, if you have a question, it's a question, not a statement.
So thank you very much for being so accommodating. Apologies. So Salma, any apologies?

1 Apologies for Absence

In terms of apologies, we have apologies for absence from Councillors Sue Holdsworth and
Claire Douglas with Councillors Stuart Golden and Peter Kilbine attending as
their substitutes respectively. Thank you. Thank you, Salma. Declarations of interest.

2 Declarations of Disclosable Pecuniary Interests

Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:01:17
Do members have any interests they wish to declare and any item on the agenda?
No?
Thank you so much.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:01:21
Okie dokie.

3 Exempt Information - Possible Exclusion of the Press and Public

Exclusion of press and public officers have advised that information contained in Appendices
1 to Agenda Item 6, Bus Franchising Update, are tweeted as exempt under paragraph 3 of
part 1 to schedule 12a of the Local Government Act 1972.
They contain information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person,
including the combined authority.
Further, it is considered that the public interest in maintaining the content of the
appendices as exempt outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information, as
publication could prejudice current and future decision -making.
If we agree the present public will be excluded should members wish to discuss the content
of the appendices when we consider item 7.
Are we content?

4 Minutes of the Meeting of the Combined Authority held on 24 July 2025

Lovely, thank you. Minutes of the meeting. Turning to the minutes of the CA 24th of July
2025. Do members have any further comments or questions? No, thank you so much. Are we

For Decision

5 Mayor's Update

content to confirm these as an accurate record? We are, brilliant. Okeydoke, item five. Just
on my, excuse me, the mayor's update. Well, there's been quite a lot going on since we
met before the summer. Some quite significant changes in government with
changes to several key ministerial roles. I spoke with Steve Reid, the new
Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government this
week. With other mayors he was joined by Miata Farrenbüller, the new Minister for
Devolution for Local Growth, who's also leading on the English Devolution Bill
for Government. I was reassured that the new ministerial team are continuing where
Angela Rayner and Jim McMahon left off.
They are clear that the bill is the floor
and not the ceiling on the ambitions
for transferring powers out of Whitehall
and into communities across England.
They're also keen to continue working with mayors
and will take forward conversations
we had at the mayor's council earlier this month.
The council was chaired by the former deputy prime minister
and was addressed by West Streeting, the health secretary,
Heidi Alexander, the Transport Secretary, and James Murray, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury.
We discussed the role of mayors in government's 10 -year health plan for England, how the mayoral
role in Great British Rail is developing, and also our collective ambitions for greater
fiscal devolution across England.
The Council had the opportunity to discuss the Shadow Right to Request process, which
forms part of the English devolution bill.
Mayors and strategic authorities are able now to request new powers from government
ahead of fiscal events and the bill makes clear that government must either accept the
request or give good reason why they cannot.
This is a genuinely welcome improvement on the current opaque process.
The bill itself had its second reading in Parliament at the beginning of the month and
now has entered the committee stage.
On Tuesday I was invited as chair of the UK Mayors to give evidence to the Public Bill Committee
where I emphasise the importance of the bill, the opportunity it has to truly embed devolution across government and Whitehall.
So, a lot to get through, so I'll leave my update there.
Moving on to item 6, bus franchising.

6 Bus Franchising Update

We are absolutely powering ahead with plans to transform our bus network and to introduce the Weaver network.
This report shows just how far we've come. At the last meeting we took a
decision at this table setting out our approach to procurement of our Weaver
network and today's decision means we're putting this in action. We've launched a
new system, a dynamic market that makes it easier for operators to get involved,
it's open, it's flexible and designed to bring in fresh energy from across the
sector. With tendering about to begin for round one we are entering a really
pivotal phase and I know we're all committed to delivering a boss network
that's greener, fairer and better connected for everyone in West Yorkshire.
I'm pleased to see the network of services proposed for M1 brought
forward ahead of launching the process to award these contracts in October and
to see proposals to consult on a service permit regime which will enable the
continuation and growth of vital services which will sit outside of
Members in York and also in South Yorkshire
I'm also really pleased to see plan set out for how we will consider our ambition for future network
Enhancements as we move towards a fully franchised bus network across West Yorkshire reflecting the great opportunity
franchising brings so can I ask Councillor Hinchliffe as chair of the Transport Committee to comment before passing to Simon Warburton our
Executive Director for Transport to take us through the recommendations. Thank you.
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair) - 0:06:20
Over to you Councillor. Thank you Mayor. I'm just pleased to see this further
update about a major piece of work that's happening obviously across the
Combined Authority bringing busses back into public control. There is a huge
amount of work with this, got to get it right and we want to make sure that
people have an excellent bus service in the future, probably better than one they've
in the past so I'll just pass on to Simon Warburton to go through that. Simon thank you. Thank you Mayor. So if I can just spend a few
Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 0:06:48
minutes just summarising the report that's before members and then myself
supported by Alex Clark who members know well has been involved in the bus
franchise programme for a number of years are here then to help members with
there any questions that you may have so as you identified mad the first round of
our bus franchising tendering exercise starts next month we will go to the
market on the 6th of October for tier a lots and then the 20th of October for
tier B and C lots and again as you rightly noted there the contracting
conditions for that approach were agreed at the July meeting and then delegated
to the chief executive in consultation with yourself for their deployment
through round one. Building on that this report now deals with two
consequent issues which have already been the subject of very helpful review
through the cross party members shadow board that we have now established and
And those two areas are around the network specification for round one, day one, which
is set out in the private appendix one for members consideration prior to its publication
as part of the issuing of tender documentation from the 6th of October.
So this is a temporary private publication of this material simply so that we can ensure
that there is a consistent presentation of material to the market from the start of the
procurement launch.
And then the second area that the report covers is around the arrangements for developing
and a permit system for services operating from outside of West Yorkshire into the franchise
scenario.
So just to go into those two areas slightly further with regard to network specification,
we start in the report by setting out the principles that we have adopted to bring forward
in the private appendix a network continuity baseline offer and we set out
principles to that approach in paragraphs 3 .17 to 3 .23. We then go on to
talk of course around how we would then seek to develop the network
That thereafter and we picked this up in two parts really in the report. So firstly
in
3 .24 to 3 .30
We started to talk about how we have given consideration to any
iterative
development at this early stage
but then we go on from paragraph 3 .62
to discuss how the forthcoming legislation,
which is currently completing its passage
through parliament, will then provide us
as a bus franchise authority with the opportunity
to develop the network to meet our integrated
transport ambitions as set out
through the Weaver Network vision,
and as we are consulting with the public on through the local transport plan
consultation based on a series of critical factors which of course we will
be in a stronger position to inform once we're in receipt of all of the data
through the operation of the franchising system and those factors are set out at
paragraph 3 .86, they cover a range of critical outcomes that we're looking to achieve, but
also that very central imperative that we've maintained throughout this process of ensuring
a sustainable financial viability to the proposition that we bring forward over time.
And then with regards to the permit regime what the report sets out here is
how the permit regime can be deployed to secure network standards for those
services which will not be directly part of the franchise system because they
operate into West Yorkshire but provide a critical part of the overall transport
system here in the conurbation. The legislation again sets out the statutory
process for the development of the permit regime as set out from paragraph 3 .45 and
that includes a very clear statement of scope in terms of the aspects of a service which
can be included in a permit regime which we've summarised in paragraph 3 .50 the
series of bullet points there. We intend to have a permit system in place by the
start of 2027 so in advance of April 27 operation of round one of the
franchising system and therefore we need to
Now start the development process. So what we are seeking is
Delegated authority to move into a statutory consultation process
Which is set out in the legislation
We would then go through the steps that we've set out at paragraph
3 .61
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:13:31
To discharge that duty. Thank you. Thank you so much. I mean, that's a comprehensive summary. Thank you
Before I bring you in, can I ask if members wish to discuss the private appendix?
Will we want to discuss the private appendix?
No?
Great stuff.
So we can keep the public and press in the room.
So Councillor Galton.
Thank you, Mayor.
I'm very encouraged that all the necessary due diligence is being followed to make sure
that this gets implemented as robustly as possible as a new system.
But I'm aware that what we are going to have in our franchise system is effectively a reproduction
of the system that we've already got, hopefully with some better performance associated with
it.
What I'm interested in though is that because we're spending a lot of time on that discussion
Cllr Stewart Golton - 0:14:22
with the potential new providers. At what point will we be able to talk to communities
about how they might have different bus services, the bus services that they aspire to. A lot
of the bus routes that we're going to be replicating have been streamlined over the years and effectively
have cut off some communities from accessing decent services and we might want to propose
alternative perhaps circular bus routes within communities to connect people up as opposed
to connect everywhere to Leeds or Bradford. At what point in the franchising process do
we welcome that kind of discussion with the local population? And also on a more technical
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:15:09
Cllr Stewart Golton - 0:15:11
point, we have particular contracts which are associated with park and ride infrastructure
in Leeds in particular. As a local councillor I'd like to see access to those
parking lights from our current scheduled services from five towns and I
think that will make a more effective bus service for my community. When do we
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:15:34
start having that conversation? Two very very good questions thank you for those
and obviously we're very proud of the Bradford Superloop and the Leeds loop as
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:15:40
so I really understand what you're saying regarding communities. Simon.
Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 0:15:49
Thank you. So Councillor Galton raises a really important point. As we set out in the report,
our ambition does not stop at the stage of moving into the day one
operation which is you rightly say Councillor Galton is with a degree of
change at the margin and clearly subject to the market prices that we receive through
the tendering process intended to be really quite a close representation of the current
system for a number of important reasons I should stress.
Firstly, recognising that this is a significant transition period that we go through in the
instance and that the most important deliverable is to ensure that all of the
communities who depend on our bus system at present can depend on that bus
service in exactly the same way on day one of operation to allow for
transition where that takes place and of course we do have a an organised
process for that with a nine month letting process and a nine month
preparation process through each of our arrangements. That is not to say that we
do not anticipate customers seeing real benefit on day one. The establishment and
the agreement by the Combined Authority of the Weaver Network principles and the
Weaver Network identity means that we can now start to bring forward to you
the customer proposition, the one -stop shop proposition that sits at the heart
of both bus franchising and the Weaver network.
And therefore we're able to introduce a set of consistent customer standards and
consistent customer service elements on that first day,
which will bring real benefits in themselves.
Now, turning to where we go thereafter,
Clearly we want to ensure that the development of the network over time is based on strong
evidence and that evidence needs to come from a series of different sources.
We will need to ensure that the advice that we are bringing to you as members is based
on good robust commercial and financial viability principles.
We will want to ensure that the network that we are bringing forward to you is based on our best understanding of how we can improve the system to encourage greater take up.
We want to ensure that the network represents the growth pattern of the city region over time.
but fundamentally it also does as Councillor Galton says need to represent
the views of the community of course that was one of the central cases for
bus franchises in the first instance. So working with the members Shadow Board
over the next few months there was a very early discussion of some of these
aspects in the most recent meeting of the Shadow Board and with the team I'm
start to bring forward some early suggestions that we can then rehearse
through Shadow Board discussions around where we should take a local engagement
and then local governance model of input. What I want to be able to ensure for
yourselves as members is that we use a range of different channels not just
combined authority channels but also local authority neighbourhood channels
as well to be able to gather evidence in terms of neighbourhood needs but that
there is then an appropriate forum at a local authority level at a district
level that brings all of that information together so that there is
then one point of consideration on a locality basis to bring through here to
the combined authority and it's those principles that I now want to be able to
build up, agree with yourselves as members through discussion at the Shadow
Board and then bring you forward here to the combined authority so that we can
all be very clear in terms of how we achieve that ambition. And the Park and
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:20:28
Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 0:20:30
Ride anything specific on that? Yes and so I would then look to for the
team to bring forward the assessment of Park and Ride through that same
mechanism I share council got a Galton's ambition we've we've seen huge success
and we're seeing a real resurgence of demand on the leads park and ride system
now it's a critical part of our overall transport system I want us to be able to
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:21:01
learn from that and develop it further council them yeah thank you mayor and I
Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council - 0:21:05
think on this issue it's fair to say we all share exactly the same objective of
wanting better busses for our communities.
We might differ slightly on what we think
is the best way to do it, but where there are challenges,
it is couched because we want you to succeed,
and we want those better busses for our communities.
The couple of points I want to make,
first of all on the routes coming
into the area from outside.
Is it the case that we will also operate
some routes in reverse, and would that be
on a commercial basis and ask the question,
where does the money go from those in both senses?
And is it just we will be proactively looking
to generate income by operating services outside of the area
or just be because the routes make sense?
It's not gonna be like a Morrison's Trolley
where you get to the border and the brakes come on.
If there's another settlement that it makes sense to go to,
then that's what we would do.
And the second bit is really whenever you've got a big programme like this, the two things
really fundamentally want to know is it on time, is it on budget.
It seems to me it's on time, which is great.
What we can't see at this stage is if it's on budget because we don't know.
And I think we really do need to know that.
And I think we also need to set out the clear principles about what we'll do in different
circumstances because there's an awful lot that we don't know, which makes it difficult
to set a budget.
What concerns me is the original business case was predicated on bus patronage going
up and bus patronage has gone down since we did that.
That tells you there's a gap in fare income and there's potential that in order to deliver
the same network we've got now, it will need more money.
So I just had to be clear about when we are going to be able to see and track the budget
from there.
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:23:08
Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 0:23:09
Thank You councillor lamb Simon that's not quite the case is it no so just to
correct the one point council answer the the bus franchising assessment that was
the basis upon which the mayor took the decision to move to a franchising system
as as we set out clearly in public reports at the time was was based on on
on a conservative long -term, conservative small C,
long -term network decline model.
So we were able to demonstrate to ourselves
financial viability in a likely worst case scenario
of long -term decline.
Now clearly that is not our ambition,
but I can reassure members
that it was a very prudent approach.
and of course that approach was audited by Grant Thornton through a statutory
process along the way. Council that raises an important point that we now
move into the dynamic of a market and a series of those audited
assessments will now be tested in market conditions. We will in private in an
appropriate way be able to keep members aware of the market response and the
extent to which we feel that our model is exposed by market prices. That is
something that we will look to bring forward through the tendering
process in an appropriate and clearly private manner, recognising that it will
still be a live market. But at the moment obviously I do not have that data
that are available to me to be able to give that advice.
We have also have a programme of work
which the Director of Finance is overseeing
to further strengthen our financial model
based on the model that was in the assessment
so that we can make best use of that market information
to be able to project and test
against the financial viability. So the start of a process is where we are now in terms
of monitoring budget. We have an 18 month process to take ourselves through for phase
one. I think what Councillor Lam raises, which I will make sure members are aware of, is
when you can expect the updates in terms of what we understand from the market.
Thank you, and I know that
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:25:55
Councillor Kilbane will be also interested in the question regarding cross -border payments, etc
apologies
Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 0:26:06
So with regards cross cross boundary services. Yes, there will be a series of Weaver network services
Which will operate outside of the area members in the west of?
Of the conurbation will be aware of one or two be network services that operate into the area
from Greater Manchester. We will continue to develop the network on the
principles that we've set out in the report. They will be consistent in the
context of any network development that we bring forward and it will
consistently be about achieving our local transport outcomes. So yeah we
travel in West Yorkshire does not stop at the boundary and we would we would
never propose a travel system that does that.
Council Kilbane.
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:26:53
Simon Warburton, Executive Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 0:26:54
Thank you, Chair.
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:26:55
And just want to really welcome this paper.
Cllr Peter Kilbane (York Council) - 0:26:59
It's great to see combined authorities starting to tackle
the decades of decimation that deregulation has brought
to the bus services nationally.
In West Yorkshire, you're a lot further on,
it's fair to say than York and North Yorkshire,
although we do have one of the rural bus franchising pilots
and I know that our officers in York and North Yorkshire are working closely with your officers
in West Yorkshire to make sure that we get that smooth transition with continuation of
service because quite a lot of people who live in North Yorkshire, their main destination
is West Yorkshire and obviously we want as many of those people, especially in areas
and there are quite a few areas in North Yorkshire that are not connected to the main train lines
where bus is the suitable option.
I think I know work is going on around the permit system.
We just need to make sure that that works well
with the services that are currently operating
in North Yorkshire, where we are still working
under a deregulized system,
which means we have to go out to franchises,
sorry, out to tender according to dates
that are not always within our control.
So if we can just make sure,
and it's gonna be tricky,
but if we can make sure that works well between the two,
a brighter future for bus users across the whole of Yorkshire.
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:28:17
Thank you. That's a great additional comment and support. Thank you so much.
And I was at Hetman -Wyke bus station, the new bus station that's coming out the ground.
That's going to be our first fully branded Weaver bus station and also Hoddesfield and
Dewsbury will also have the Weaver branding. So I'm hoping that the public will start to
see changes on the ground as we go through towards fully franchised.
Any further comments on this paper? No, thank you so much.
Okeydoke. Can we approve the recommendations?
Can we approve the development of service specifications for round one bus franchising
contracts? Thank you so much.
Can we endorse the proposed network output set out in appendix one to inform round one
franchising? Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:29:07
Can we note the progress on the service permit scheme and proposed permit conditions ahead
of the franchising launch? Thank you.
Delegate authority to the Chief Executive in consultation with myself to undertake statutory
consultation on the service permit scheme and permit conditions.
Thank you. And note the approach to future network changes
and plans to ensure service continuity during the transition to franchising.
Superb. Thank you. Moving on to our next exciting transport project, Mass Transit.

7 Mass Transit Programme

The next item is an update on the Mass Transit programme, a vital element of our
Weaver network, one of the most ambitious projects we've ever taken on. I'm really
pleased to see the pace and progress continuing. The updated business case is
well underway, the team is working hard to keep us on track for those spades in
ground by 2028. I'm also encouraged by the parallel work streams now moving
forward, especially the early design work, consultation planning and preparation
for the Transport and Works Act order. All of these are critical to keeping the
programme on schedule and delivering the high quality, low emission transport
system our region deserves. The funding request today will help us maintain
momentum and support the next phase of development. It is a significant
investment but it sits comfortably within the funding envelope already
approved. I also welcome the proposal for officer delegations outside of key
decision points. This is going to help us, you know, be able to stay agile and
responsive as the programme evolves. So can I ask Councillor Hinchliffe and then Mike
Birch, our Director of Mass Transit, to take us through the recommendations.
Councillor Hinchliffe. Thank you, Mayor. Just to add to that that obviously this
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair) - 0:30:56
is one of the biggest transport programmes going on in the country at the moment in West
Yorkshire along with everything else we've got on this agenda. You know, it's really
exciting to see that much transport investment going in and therefore it is absolutely right
that we've got the right team behind it and the right resources behind it. So we need
to make sure we keep going with that. But with that, I'll pass over to Mike.
Mr Mike Birch - 0:31:21
Thank you, Mayor. Thank you, Councillor Hinchliffe. So the paper seeks to summarise three key
areas. The first is the programme update. The second is forward visibility of key decisions
that will be brought to the combined authority. And then the final one is the funding drawdown
as part of CRSTS allocations. So significant technical design and environmental work has
been undertaken to progress the programme. This work sits alongside the development of our
strategic outline case as the first step of the business case process. We've also commenced
market engagement to begin to engage with the marketplace to help influence and inform
our future procurement strategies.
Together with this, advocacy work across the programme remains strong.
We've hosted several key events, including parliamentary drop -ins in Westminster, active
involvement in UK Reef and the UK Light Rail Conference.
We've successfully launched our hashtag Team West Yorkshire Tram Ambassador programme and
and currently have over 120 ambassadors signed up representing multiple organisations advocating
for the programme.
The technical feasibility and planning tender for the Jews beeline project is currently
underway and we expect to be concluded in the coming weeks.
And the programme continues to work to those near term revisions to the programme outlined
in the paper for the submission of the strategic outline case in March next year, followed
shortly after by consultation.
As the mayor has outlined we remain on track for space in the ground 2028
And we recognise the importance of getting things right at this stage in the programme
To ensure that we deliver the best outcome possible for the people of West Yorkshire
And the key future decision points to be brought to the combined authority being set out within the paper to ensure forward visibility
We asked members to note that the date specified may change as is typical on schemes of this size and nature
And finally, the funding drawdown of 40 .5 million is requested to support key works
and keep the project on track.
These works include further technical environmental assessment work on the Leeds and Bradford
lines and the development of the strategic outline case together with the Jewsbury line
work.
This request will bring the total funding allocation to 121 million, drawn down against
the original CRSTS allocation for the programme of $202 million that will take us through
to March 2027. So I'm happy to take questions, ma 'am.
Thank you so much. Any questions on this paper? Yes, Councillor Anderson.
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:33:55
Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair) - 0:34:02
In terms of paragraph A, risks and mitigations, is there any reason why the actual risks that
you've got cannot be brought to the attention of the Combined Authority so that we can read
those alongside the other decisions that we're making because it says we thought
with all programmes at this stage there remains a number of programme risks these
are being being managed through the risk management process fine but what are
Mr Mike Birch - 0:34:28
those risks? Mike? Yeah no problem so Councillor Anderson and that there's no
reason why that level of detail can't be shared just for visibility for members
The risk tracker for the programme represents in excess of 350 individual risks.
A series of top and topical risks could certainly be brought forward to give that visibility of the main items if that's helpful.
Ms. Salma Arshad - 0:34:50
Thank you and I would say with the HS2 project one of their risks was the number of outside companies that were involved
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:34:59
and that's why I'm finding it really pleasing that our team are looking about very carefully how we grow our own.
and our in -house talent because this is a decade -long project, so we can't just rely
on outside support. So I think that's also an important part of the paper.
Any further comments? Councillor Galton.
Cllr Stewart Golton - 0:35:22
Yes, thank you, I'm sorry if I've missed something, but something just came to me when you mentioned
HS2 and assurance around finance came into my head. I just wondered, we're hoping to
get spades in the ground by 2028 and there's lots of power work happening here. At what
point do we know we're over the line in terms of potential legislative barriers being overcome?
Do you see what I mean?
So that we won't get to the point where a Prime Minister turns around and says we can't
afford it anymore.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:36:05
What date is that before the spades in the ground in 2028?
Cllr Stewart Golton - 0:36:06
Yes Mike.
Yeah so that's a great question.
Mr Mike Birch - 0:36:13
So the programme currently sees us submitting our TWA application in 2027.
In parallel to that there will be the outline business case.
So in 2028, we expect consent to progress with the scheme
together with final business case approval.
The key question is whether or not either of those things
prevent government decisions being reversed,
which I don't feel is an appropriate comment
for an officer on the programme to probably pass comments on.
Very good, you've been trained.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:36:42
Obviously, anything can happen in politics.
But I have confidence that we have the political will regionally and the political will nationally
to get this over the ground.
But of course it is up to us to show value for money and to have impact on our communities,
for growth, house building and all of that.
We have to make a very powerful case.
and I am confident that we can make that case that whatever political hue you
will understand that this is vital, important and necessary and needs to be
done. Any further comments on this paper? No thank you, okie doke, thanks. Can we then
note the progress on the West Yorkshire Mass Transit Programme and current
delivery position? Noted, thank you. Approved revised timeline for SOC
submission by March 26 and reaffirm the commitment to key milestones including spades in the
ground by 2028.
Wonderful.
Note future key decisions to be brought to the Combined Authority as outlined in the
report.
Thank you.
Approve officer delegations including to the Chief Executive and myself for decisions outside
key decision points that do not materially affect programme timescales.
Thank you.
approve up to £40 ,487 ,682 of additional funding for development activity through to SOC submission
with the previously approved funding envelope.
We can thank you.
That feels very good.
Note that future approvals will follow the assurance pathway and remain within agreed
programme tolerances.
We can note.

8 West Yorkshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy

Thank you so much. Moving on. Item eight. West Yorkshire local nature recovery strategy.
Fantastic opportunity this for West Yorkshire and I'm proud of the work that's gone into
shaping this draught. Sets out a clear and ambitious plan to restore habitats, protect wildlife and
reconnect people with the natural world. Obviously this report shows the scale of the challenge
but the huge potential that we have to revive our landscapes, create that healthier greener
region for everyone. I'm really pleased to see how the strategy supports our wider climate goals,
reflects our commitment to a sustainable future and a strong foundation.
And now we're ready to take it out to consultation and hear from the communities of West Yorkshire.
Could I ask Councillor Jane Scullion as Chair of the Climate, Energy and Environment Committee
to speak to the report, followed by Liz Hunter, our Director for Policing, Environment and Place,
to take us through the recommendations. Over to you, Jane.
Thank you, Mayor, and apologies for being late. I'm really pleased to introduce this.
Cllr Jane Scullion (Calderdale Council) - 0:39:37
It's had a long, long history of working on this. And I want to just to say a few words
by way of context. And the first is that wildlife is under threat in this country. My doctor,
who's 41, she's never seen a hedgehog, never seen a hedgehog. And most of her peers have
never seen a hedgehog. And we live in a semi -rural part of West Yorkshire and she's never seen
a hedgehog. Things like hedgehogs actually gradually disappearing. And there was a report
last year from the State of Yorkshire Nature Report, nearly 2 ,000 species lost over the
last 200 years, and with one in five declining by 25 % in just the last 20 to 30 years. So
those things that we took for granted really in terms of our wildlife are under threat.
And of course within West Yorkshire for all the reasons to do with our industry in our
past 80 % of our wetlands have gone and half of Yorkshire rivers, and we know this because
it's been very topical, half of Yorkshire rivers have been altered or are in poor condition.
So this particular strategy which we've developed in conjunction not just with councils but
enormous range of partners, Peak District National Park, even Natural England, stakeholders,
community groups, etc.
And it's being considered at various stages in its development by the Climate, Energy
and Environment Committee that I chair.
And we started to look at it, to look back at 2003 and we looked at it just at the last
meeting this summer this year.
And it has also involved engagement with members of the Scritany Committee.
So it's been through a lot since 2023 and therefore what's in front of you to go out
for consultation.
It's very much a draught but I think it's also a massive milestone because it's the
first time, as the Mayor says, that our strategic ambitions for nature recovery in its widest
sense have been articulated in this joint way.
And it's part of our conversation with government about the way in which funds for nature recovery
come to us.
I won't go into the detail of what's in the report, but I just wanted to pull out one
strand and it's what you might expect as a Councillor in West Yorkshire or in Calderdale,
water is a central theme within this strategy.
Nature recovering in West Yorkshire and beyond, really it could stand or fall depending on
how we do water management in this, I was going to say county, in this combined authority.
because we know that we're living with water,
we're responding to water, we're managing it,
and that's why it's an overarching thread
which runs throughout the strategy.
There's clearly you talk about within the strategy,
we talk about vision to re -wet the region.
That does not mean we want more rain.
That means actually that we want the peat bogs,
their carbon role, those kind of things
to actually be restored and be in good health.
We also want as part of that, we think nature recovery
really contributes to flood management,
but also contributes to drought management.
And we know this last summer,
and of course we still got a hosepipe ban,
even the range from the heavens,
we've got a hosepipe ban in West Yorkshire.
I've got one in London, by the way.
And I think also the nature recovery
has got a real contribution to make,
urban cooling in our cities and towns across West Yorkshire actually
The way in which we do tree planting make things better for nature also makes it better for us to manage as human beings in
Terms of working and living in the area. Thank you. Thank you so much Liz
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:43:27
Thank you. Thank you for those introductions
Liz Hunter, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 0:43:30
so given everything that's already been said I'll just focus on the recommendation which as you've already said is if
Members of the Command Authority today are happy we will proceed to consultation.
Just a note, we are following a statutory process, so there are supporting bodies whose
objections we're hoping won't come forward because that will enable us then to go to
consultation.
And then we will look following that to understand the results from the consultation and come
back to yourselves in the new year with a finalised draught.
So subject to your comments today.
make any further tweets to the document before consultation and then come back to you following
that. Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:44:06
Thank you so much and I just want to support what you were saying Jane about the water
element of it. The string of blue pearls of water and leisure opportunities will really
add to our tourism offer as well. Any comments on the strategy?
No? Ah yes, Councillor Lamb.
Yeah, thank you, ma 'am. I didn't really support this strategy and
Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council - 0:44:29
It's probably slightly uncomfortable for both cancer schooling and I how often we find ourselves agreeing with each other around this table
So sorry, sorry cancer schooling, but it's it's really positive that the challenge is
Like many of these things the policies in direct conflict with lots of our other objectives
and there's a real balance to strike because I think what a lot of people
come back in the consultation will be the first thing we need to do is stop
building on green belt green field and rural land because we need it yes we
need more houses as well that's an equally high priority but I think part
of this needs to be a bit of pressure back to government around the changes
they've made to planning policy which has made it far easier for developers to
choose not to build more houses, just to build them on green fields instead of brown fields
where it's more expensive. And I think that's one aspect, if we can capture that and find
a way to balance delivering this and still deliver our other priorities, that's going
to be the real tricky bit. Thank you.
Councillor Galton. Thank you, Mayor.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:45:44
Cllr Stewart Golton - 0:45:47
I just wanted to endorse your emphasis on the fact that investing in biodiversity doesn't
necessarily mean that it's zero -sum. It can actually enhance our offer in terms of tourism.
In my particular local area, we did put in a levelling up bid with the previous government
to try and deliver greater employment thanks to the re -greening of post -industrial landscape
and of course the mayor was there the other week at Infinium at the opening of that business
and it was a great example of how we can reinvest in post -industrial landscape, create good
clean future jobs and those companies will invest in the environment around them and
the River Aire Valley could for instance become a real key tourist destination as opposed
to just the city's effluent ridda that it used to be in the past. And I think that the
investment in the biodiversity, if we include the people, which is one of the priorities
that's in this plan, I'm really glad to see that you've included that, we need to make
sure that we're not just being seen to invest in nature, but that we're investing in people
benefiting from nature because it has a huge impact not just economically for
tourism but in terms of our own mental health so I really do endorse this paper.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:47:12
Cllr Jane Scullion (Calderdale Council) - 0:47:16
Thank you Jane. Mayor I have already reported myself to the whips for my
agreement with both the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives.
Councillor Lamb's absolutely right that there's always in the public sector
policy conflict. And I think in some ways I agree in terms of how we manage housing
development and we know we need housing, we know that housing is at the bottom of healthy
lives and future and the discussions we've had about grey belt versus green belt. Actually
I feel very reassured by the work of the Combined Authority because one of the things that we've
as a combined authority, I know that from being
on other committees, is we have really worked hard
with government in terms of releasing brownfield land
because we know the additional expenditure
that is required to remediate brownfield land.
And actually the fact that we've got the combined authority
as well as the council's pushing on this,
I think gives me some hope in terms of where
future expansion might come.
But there are always going to be policy conflicts.
And one of the things I look to in terms of the developments
that we are doing across West Yorkshire is what do you see when you come into these developments?
Do you see a lot of, in certain name of developer here, small boxes? Or do you actually see
developers in conjunction with the Combined Authority and the Council talking about what
happens when you walk into that estate? What are the suds, the swales, the rills, which
are about water management? What is the tree planting? What are the communal spaces? What
the woods and the forests really so I think we've all got a project in terms of that.
And I absolutely endorse what Councillor Galton says about the Eyre Valley. I think it's got
tremendous potential really in terms of the greening, in terms of tourism, in terms of
pleasant place to live and to visit. And that's one of the reasons why, as I said, water runs
through it, you know, a river's run through this, this is a defining feature that weaves
together West Yorkshire. So thank you for those comments.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:49:30
Thank you and it was very pleasing to see the changes to the green book regarding housebuilding
where it's about value for money so we can build in other communities where it wouldn't
have historically stacked up to make sure that we get those hundreds of thousands of
Individuals off the waiting list for council accommodation. It is one of the most
Important things for our communities when it comes to health if you haven't got a decent home
You will never be healthy
so it it's a it's a balance but I think
The evolution gives us that opportunity to have that strategic view and to overlay our ambitions for housing
And of course our ambitions for biodiversity
Councillor Hinchliffe
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair) - 0:50:16
Thank you mayor just indulge we also on a parochial matter people have mentioned their value a couple of times and obviously
Salt air for example is in the air Valley, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So and river air runs right through that
So it already is a beautiful corridor of tourism and greening which we would do well to learn from
Our forefathers in how they built that in a sustainable fashion
So I always say that salt air is a very good example of that and would do well to learn by it
Thank you.
Mandy.
Thank you, Mayor.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:50:47
It's a great paper and I really endorse it.
Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board) - 0:50:50
When you mention small boxes, I think seeing more small boxes as you come into our business
environments in terms of bat boxes and bird boxes would be a really great addition to
that.
And so I'd really welcome the chance to bring this to the Business Board at some point and
talk about the role that business can play in supporting it.
Great suggestion.
Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:51:08
Okie doke, are we then happy to note the engagement and strategy development work undertaken with
partners? We are. Approve the pre -consultation draught West Shorkshire Local Nature Recovery
Strategy for public consultation subject to final edits and partner feedback. We are.
Superb. Thank you so much. Okie doke, moving on to item 9, West Shorkshire

9 West Yorkshire Local Remediation Acceleration Plan

local remediation plan. Thank you for your patience John. We are aware that
still far too many buildings in West Yorkshire with dangerous cladding are in
West Yorkshire and it's a real chance for us to lead the way to make sure
these buildings are fixed without further delay and I'm really proud of
the determination and teamwork that's gone into this plan. The report shows
we're stepping up to do what's right, bringing partners together, removing
barriers, accelerating the work to make homes safer, giving residents peace of
mind, making sure no one is left behind. I'm really encouraged by how this sets
us up for the future as our powers grow through devolution we'll be ready to
take on more responsibility and deliver the change our communities deserve. So
thank you John Roberts, Chief Fire... it's Robbins isn't it? Roberts. Roberts, Roberts.
John Robbins is the chief constable John Roberts and chief fire officer. I look forward to your contribution
But first can I ask councillor Denise Jeffrey as chair of the place regeneration housing committee
To speak to the report followed by Liz hunter to take us through the recommendations. Thank you
Cllr Carole Pattison (Kirklees Council) - 0:52:46
Thank you, ma 'am. This is an important. This is a really important piece of work for West Yorkshire
We need to make sure that all residents can feel safe in their homes
The plan has been developed alongside partners in the local authorities and the fire and
rescue service which we have our colleague here today who has been steered by the place
and regeneration housing committee.
I think we all want to see these buildings remediated as soon as possible and this plan
shows how the combined authority will support our partners in achieving this.
Liz, do you want to comment?
Thank you.
As the paper already sets out and as you described what this is trying to do, I'll be brief.
Liz Hunter, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 0:53:28
So just to add a couple of things, that this is very much about accelerating safety.
To add that this is in line with the national target date of 2029.
And very much is about coordinating activity and again, thank you to partners for their
involvement in this.
And as already mentioned, recognises our future responsibilities.
The recommendations are about the adoption of this plan if you're in agreement today.
It is something that you would expect us to keep up to date, so we will do minor amendments
to it and continue to work with government on it if you're comfortable with that.
And of course if there's more substantive changes we will bring them back to yourselves.
Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:54:03
And of course this is a new ask of government from us to have that coordination across the
region.
So it's it's a new area with that we're stepping into but John if I may pass over to you
John Roberts - 0:54:21
Thank you, I haven't really got any comments of them obviously what's in the paper
I think it's being a joint endeavour with the combined authority and our local authority partners
I guess commitment from the from the fire service perspective is that we keep that partnership life
I think as Liz has said this is about accelerating
I had the remediation programme to ensure that people are kept safe from their properties.
But unless there's any questions, then that's it for me. Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:54:48
Thank you. And there have been changes, haven't there, in heights and so on, so we just, in
lockstep with government, whatever they need from us, we're happy to try and help.
Any questions for John? You've come all this way. Surely someone has a question.
James, anything to add? Obviously there's a number of high -rises in Leeds and I was
pleased to see the cladding coming off the flats at the dock. So that looks like that
work has really escalated and come to a conclusion which must be good for residents.
Thank you, yeah. We've had a lot of concerns from residents, particularly leaseholders
Cllr James Lewis (Leeds City Council) - 0:55:31
that have been quite affected by some of the post -Grenfell events and like I say, good
to see some progress on this.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:55:40
Thank you and also for the committee to be aware that the devolution bill gives us responsibilities
for fire later down the line. So we're looking forward to spending more time with you John.
and thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day today and do thank your officers
for all that you do. You keep us safe and run to danger when we're all running the other
way. So thank you for all that you do. Okeydoke, you don't have to stay if you don't want to,
but thank you. So are we happy to adopt the West Yorkshire Local Remediation Acceleration
Plan and delegate final amendments to the Chief Executive in consultation with myself?
We are, thank you. Delegate approval of future minor amendments to the chief
executive in consultation with myself. We are. Thank you very much. Okie doke.

10 Cluster Action Plans

Moving on to the cluster action plans. The next step of our local growth plan. A
brilliant example of how and why we're backing West Yorkshire's strengths,
bringing together industry, academia, local partners to drive innovation and
unlock growth. It focuses on high potential sectors, advanced manufacturing,
creative industries, two examples, and sets out clear, practical steps to boost productivity,
attract investment and build resilience. And I'm really especially proud of how these plans
reflect the diversity and dynamism of our region, from Hoddesfield's health innovation
sector to Bradford's immersive tech. It's a place -based leadership in action. But not
just about short wins, it's about future -proofing our economy, showing investors nationally
and globally that we mean business. So may I ask Councillor Lewis as chair of
the Economy Committee to speak to the report followed by Mandy Ridyard my
business advisor and then over to Felix Kumianpofo our director of inclusive
economy skills and culture to take us through the recommendations.
Cllr James Lewis (Leeds City Council) - 0:57:42
Councillor Lewis. Thank you Mayor and you've given a great introduction which
is basically all I was going to say but I do think it is really important on
this, that this has been driven by the work that we've
done both on the economy committee and the business
board, looking at key players in each sector
to have an approach that is really focused on getting
the growth in the sector, the ones we recognise
at high growth.
I all think it's worth saying as well,
because it's also a discussion that comes up
at the economy committee as well.
This isn't the only economic activity,
either the combined authority or the five councils are doing.
we have recognised these clusters as a particular focus on growth and being able to drive our economy forward,
bring the good jobs that we want into West Yorkshire, but isn't the only activity as well.
I think that's also an important point to recognise.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 0:58:42
Thank you so much and we must also not forget this is the first innovative way of doing
things in the country so we are yet again the pioneers of a new structure for the business
board but Mandy would you like to give us your thoughts?
Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board) - 0:59:01
Max it's always more difficult going third. So James you're quite right the point about
not just being these clusters, although this paper is about the particular growth clusters we're talking about,
there is also the foundational economy to think about, and it's really pleasing to see that
visitor spending in 2024 rose by 8%, which is significant. Any industry would snap your hands off at the moment for 8 % growth,
I think. And that supports our fundamental
foundational
economy, as well as the amount of opportunity there will be within the infrastructure work that we have going on. But these clusters,
in terms of our high -growth clusters are really important to the whole of the
region and I'm really excited with the work that's going on with both the
economy board and the way that we're restructuring the business board to
support this cluster work and engaging more and more businesses behind it. When
we get into the cluster action plans the accountability and delivery of those
cluster plans will remain with the with the command authority although the
business board and the economy committee will both be involved in that.
The economy board will have the oversight.
But the collaboration of the cluster action plans with the private sector will have chairs
that are accountable to the business board and I think that's really important that we
drive these cluster action plans through private sectors coming together to work out how they
can support and help deliver those plans as it's in the clusters that they're part of.
and we will take you through that next.
Thank you, Mandy.
Felix.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:00:36
Thank you, Mayor.
Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board) - 1:00:38
There isn't a lot left to be said.
But I suppose a couple of key points
really from us.
One,
this is the first time we have tried to do this.
In the local group plan,
we identified these key sectors
and now work has gone on
with all our partners
to get a better understanding
of the impact
the players within these sectors, what the challenge is,
what the barriers are, what the opportunities like.
Sarah Eaton, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:01:02
And these six action plans set out
Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:01:06
then what the key actions are that
need to take place to make sure we
are able to work together, shared ambitions
to grow these clusters.
You will notice as you read through them
that I think the amount of information
and the level of development across the six,
we admit it's not the same.
Our depth of knowledge and understanding
across these six clusters varies.
And we are expecting that over the next year or two,
through this approach, we will deepen our understanding
and get a better grip of the challenges,
but also the opportunities within each of these clusters.
And so these definitely have to be living documents
that we'll be able to go back to periodically update, improve,
et cetera, and hold each other to account on.
And that is really crucial.
We are not coming to you here today to say,
we know all there is to know about these areas
and we're absolutely spot on.
We are also learning.
And that's really crucial.
but it's an important point for us if you are minded to approve these.
We will come back at your next meeting in October with the plans on how we are looking to transform the business board
and you will see the clear alignment between this cluster approach and the approach we take in with the business board
to make sure we are working together in a much bigger coalition.
This then informs everything we do.
So whether it's our international activity or what we do at various events, how we engage with partners, the actions here
ensure that we don't have to go back to the drawing board every time there is some funding opportunity or some call.
We have worked together to agree the actions. That's what we take a move to to implement. So the two key
recommendations here,
We're hoping that you are minded to approve these so we can get to work on them immediately.
And if you are minded to, then you delegate the further evolution of this to be overseen by the Economic Committee,
but delegate to, I suppose, the head of the pay service and to myself. Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:03:30
Great stuff. This is how we each have our growth plan up on its feet and delivering.
So it's a really exciting opportunity for us.
Any questions councillor lamb? Thank you
From a high level. This makes a lot of sense and certainly support the recommendations in it
I'd like to see some more metrics to support. I'm getting that's to follow
Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council - 1:03:57
When more detail comes out the one thing I would really like to see in parallel to this is
To identify the sectors that are really struggling
because if we just go for growth and that's offset by other sectors in decline, we're not really any further forwards.
And it's understanding the sectors that are struggling and what we can do to support them.
So I don't know if there's any work ongoing to do that, but if there isn't, I think that would be a healthy balance to this.
And we'd be in a much better place if we can support those sectors that I find in times very challenging,
of which there are many, as well as making sure we take maximum advantage of the big
growth opportunities.
Can I just understand what matrix you're looking for?
Metrics.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:04:42
Metrics.
Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council - 1:04:47
Well, what exactly we're expecting to achieve, what level of growth, what's the starting
point, what time scales are we looking at, that kind of thing.
Thank you.
Felix is nodding.
That's all good.
Councillor Kilbain.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:04:57
Cllr Peter Kilbane (York Council) - 1:05:03
Thank you, Chair. Just from a York perspective, we really welcome this. Clearly, there are
synergies with growth plans that are being formed within the North Yorkshire region,
I'm sure South Yorkshire as well, and I think the opportunities that this brings for the
north and Yorkshire in particular are to be really welcomed as we start to assert ourselves
on the national stage in these areas.
Thank you so much. Councillor Scullion.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:05:26
Cllr Jane Scullion (Calderdale Council) - 1:05:29
Thank you. I really welcome this paper because it feels a little bit like this is the start
of a new phase, a new era. We've had our legacy industries and we've begun to transition away
from those and this is the next phase really. So I think I really welcome this paper and
particularly the identification of particular clusters. We know where we want to be. I just
I just want to say two things in relation to it.
One is that, if I could join Councillor Hinchliffe
in being provocable for a moment,
not everything that happens,
happens just in university areas.
There is talent in our colleges, actually.
So some of that innovation, some of that contribution
has to come from our colleges.
Innovation sits everywhere, and we know that.
The other thing is thinking about volume and scale.
This is the beginning of lots and lots of things
to do with transition from that industrial legacy.
And I was thinking places like Col de Delle in particular,
we're not necessarily, say, like the big hotel change,
the Marriot's or the Holiday Inn,
we're more boutique, actually, we're niche.
So in terms of clusters, perhaps thinking about
some of those niche contributions actually,
which are about innovation,
which are about supply chain innovation,
green employment, things like that,
that we have actually got a lot to contribute,
not necessarily large scale volume,
actually I think key in terms of promoting that growth.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:07:06
Thank you, and I concur that Calderdale College,
I went recently, it's really exceptional,
and innovating on every level,
So good to see. Yes, Mandy.
It's a really great point, Jane.
Sorry, Councillor Scullion.
Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board) - 1:07:21
And I'd like to say that when we look at some of those clusters, within them there are clusters.
So if you take advanced manufacturing, for example, in
Councillor Hinchliffe's
district, we have an RF cluster that's emanating out of that, which is a very small part of advanced manufacturing,
but is a cluster in itself.
So there are boutiques within the clusters if that helps and I'm very aware of the fact
that there is more to it than just those clusters, so things like the LVET for example, a really
important part of how we push economic growth across a number of areas as well as these
high growth clusters.
Thank you Mandy. Ben.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:08:00
Ben Still, Chief Executive (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:08:03
Thank you Chair. I'm asking Felix to kind of give us an overview because one of the
things that's important about this cluster approach is it's targeted for very sensible
reasons, but then we need a crosscutting approach for things such as our trade investment strategy,
our events strategy and how they contribute to those sectors. And I wonder, Felix, if
you just might give members a bit of an overview about how that process will work.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:08:32
Good stuff. Any further questions before I come back to Felix? Felix, thank you. There's
Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:08:39
been a number of comments there as well. Yes, I'll try to take them more really
quickly and I'm struggling for time. So take the points on metrics, there's a lot
of work going on on outcomes and KPIs, parts of integrated settlements and
other conversations. We'll come back once there's a bit more clarity on those but
take that and it's important that we work. It's a really interesting point
you make about sectors that are struggling, we take that away. Through this, we try to
prioritise the limited resource we've got in the areas where we know we can, our effort
can lead to, with partners, can lead to significant enough growth because we know we can't do
everything but the point you make about some sectors which might have specific
challenges which we may be able to support with and one of the papers that
come later might be able to allude to that I think is fair enough so we'll
have a look at that and we'll see we'll see what is what is possible within
reason. I think the point that Scallion made again the innovation paper to follow
later we might want to have a conversation then completely agree.
You know whether I'm talking about innovation or knowledge and skills, university is only
a part of this, the important part but only a part of this.
And we need to make sure we are developing our approach in a way that all the talents
have an opportunity, and equities have an opportunity within that.
The business advisor chairs talked about some of the sub -sectors or sub -clusters that we've
got, RFP in an example. There are a few others. But that is where this approach could be interesting
because that depth of focus allows us to gain that level of understanding in some of the
areas within these clusters which might get lost in the data because granularity is a
in the data often struggles once you start to aggregate up
to find a way to make sense and to understand the trends.
So we will see, but we are on a learning curve.
The point about some of the cross -cutting themes is really,
and again, hopefully when we bring the paper next time
about the business board, we've got a diagram
we're working through to illustrate
how we're thinking about this.
When we, for all sakes, these action plans give us a way to interpret our actions across
those crosscutting themes.
So if it's, say, international activity, we can then target our activity to say, what
is, I don't know, financial and business services, what is the international angle there, where
where are the markets, where are the opportunities,
what are businesses in that space saying they need?
And that is what is dictating, or should dictate at least.
And the same with skills is the same with the premises
that businesses need, because the different sectors
and the different clusters need different types of premises.
Some simply want to expand.
Others need specialist premises, whether it's
dry labs, et cetera.
And if we don't have that sense of depth and intensity into each of these clusters, we keep skating over the top.
So hopefully in work that follows from this, we'll be able to do that.
There's specific work going on on international plans which are noted in each of these action plans you've got here.
But when it's aggregated up, hopefully you'll be able to pick those out in a way that makes sense.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:12:29
Thank you. And on international trade missions, we can identify a couple or three clusters,
and so we make the most of those trips and taking businesses that reflect the different
clusters, so it's not just one cluster where amplifying and elevating and supporting. So
it's an opportunity to overlay the ambitions for growth in each of these clusters. Thank
you. Any further comments? No, thank you so much. Okie doke. Are we happy to approve
the six cluster action plans developed to accelerate growth across West Yorkshire's
priority sectors? We are. Delegate future development of cluster action plans to
the Economy Committee. Excellent. Okay, moving on. Item 11. It's an update on
Healthy Working Life Programme. This is about helping more people across West

11 Healthy Working Life

Yorkshire into jobs that support well -being and open opportunities. I'm pretty proud of
the progress we've made in such a short amount of time. Trailblazers are already testing
fresh approaches to reach those who've been out of work and it's fantastic to see government
backing us with a second year of funding. We're also working with partners across health
skills and employment to get that joined up system that works for everyone and I'd like
to thank the West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board for their continued support and individually
Rob Webster, their Chief Executive for his leadership as Co -Chair of the Healthy Working
Life Board. The Board itself is already playing a key role in shaping this work, bringing
together voices across the region. And I'm looking forward to its first public meeting
on the 22nd of September where we're going to hear from partners as we shape the next
phase. Also, there's a strong focus on evaluation so we can learn, adapt, be agile, make sure
this investment delivers real impact. So back to yourself Felix to talk us
Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:14:27
through the recommendations. Thank you Mayor. We've been coming to meetings, your
meetings for the last year or so to make sure you're fully up to date with what's
going on here. The paper you've got provides a bit of an update on where we
are. The decision that we are seeking from you is that you are happy to approve
us accepting the second year of funding for the trailblazer, and I'll come to that in
a second, to accept the second year of funding, and thirdly, to delegate to us via our head
of page service to submit the delivery plan for year two of the trailblazer, because we
need to submit that by the end of this month, having only been told about that a few weeks
ago.
If we step back then, there are three main funding streams
that are sort of funding, providing the resource
for activity in this space.
And this space is growing very quickly.
We started off with, for a long time,
had played a role with DWP and the job centre
around employment support.
Economic inactivity became a big issue after COVID,
and in particular the health -led economic inactivity
due to health.
Those numbers are growing.
We have over 100 ,000 of such people in West Yorkshire.
The work we're doing is to support people who are in work
but at risk of falling out of work because of health reasons
and to support people who are out of work
because of health to be able to go back into work
or at least have an opportunity to go back into work.
The trailblazer gave us 10 million pounds to try new ways of doing this, focusing on economic inactivity for one year, 10 million pounds.
We have now been told we will get a second year of funding, similar amount of money to continue to do this.
We do not know whether we will get more money in subsequent years. We might not.
So it's really important that we make the most of this.
The delivery plan that we use for year one,
our view is to continue that for year two.
Where we can learn the lessons quickly
for what we are doing in year one,
we learned that we are agile,
we pivot as quickly as possible.
But for some things, it's just too early.
And so we need to use whatever evidence we are gathering
and make those decisions.
It does mean, there are implications,
that beyond this, if this is the only source of funding
we have, it means our work with DWP will have to be
even more tight, where we are focusing on economic
inactivity, DWP focuses on unemployment support,
and together we're able to cover the whole space.
But it does mean the pivot that you approved last year
employment to West Yorkshire to begin to move more and more into economic
inactivity that pivot has to accelerate because that is where the funding is
that is where the activity is and we'll come back to you in subsequent meetings
when we have greater clarity on what that looks like. Some of some really
interesting work we're doing we are we know they could you know there are
challenges in the economy through this funding we are working with employers to
understand what is the right set of incentives that
employers require so that they can then have the
confidence and the reassurance to employ some
of these people.
And we are just about to start that trial.
It's a similar one we're doing with personal
incentives, again, to understand and to work with
people to work out what are the right incentives,
which if we could help them with, and a key one that
keeps coming up with transport, for example,
then that means they are able to go to work.
So those are the kind of things we're doing.
Hope this is helpful.
Thank you.
Thank you so much.
It's a great piece of work.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:18:31
And with 100 ,000 people out of work due to ill health,
economically inactive due to ill health,
it's an urgent piece of work.
Any comments?
Councillor Lamb.
Thank you.
Sorry, in danger of being a broken record.
Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:18:44
Support the paper on objectives,
but it's talking all about inputs.
And there's nothing to tell us about outputs and outcomes.
and I think it would be really helpful when we get these papers to be able to see what the impact has been
so that we know we're on the right track.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:19:05
Thank you and there's definitely clear targets set for us from government attached to the money so we're happy to do that.
Any further comments? Yes, Councillor Anderson.
Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:19:15
Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair) - 1:19:18
What's there any lessons learned from phase one that you're going to bring into anything
that worked exceptionally well or unfortunately something that didn't work? Are there any
because it says there are no background documents referenced in this report so I've got no way
of looking to see what was good and what was bad in phase one.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:19:39
Thank you, really, really good question.
Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:19:42
So again, on outputs, we're happy to provide a lot more information.
Some of the earlier papers that we've shared set out some of the key outputs that we're
talking about.
We have a big target, reducing the rate of increase in economic inactivity by at least
1 ,300 people.
So we know we cannot slow that.
We cannot, sorry, reduce the total number.
Our initial target that we've been given by government is to slow down the rate of growth.
And if we can slow that down enough over a period, we can then begin to bring the overall
numbers down.
There are challenges with the numbers full stop.
ONS have acknowledged that Liverpool survey numbers coming through, which we rely on for
this, are not as reliable as they could be.
So we are hampered in different ways.
Our team here have worked to see if there are different ways of measuring this, and
we are still looking at that.
But take the point and we'll continue to help.
As I said, when I was speaking earlier on,
unfortunately, it's too early to give you concrete evidence
that this has worked and that has worked
because we are in the middle of year one.
We are planning for year two,
but we are in the middle of year one.
So numbers for year one have not started coming out
and I don't want to quote anything to you that will,
Some of the key things we've learned though is around the how.
So we know it's been incredibly helpful that we have the structures in place and
the partnerships in place to be able to deploy this really quickly.
We're able to come together quickly, get the right arrangements and
get funding to the voluntary sector and other really local partners.
Very quickly that has stood us in good stead.
The core terminosity that we've got here and
other players don't have when it comes to how our health and employment support and
other arrangements come together has been a huge advantage and other areas are playing
catch up.
So there are things like that that we know has been really helpful and has meant we've
been able to move quickly.
But in terms of the hard numbers, it is a bit early.
And some of the things that we've talked about in the around incentives, we are only now
going out to market.
Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:21:57
And if I could just put it in context, Councillor Anderson, I was at an event where at a community
centre where they had a jobs hub and they were celebrating one of their best
periods ever for getting people into work. Over three months they got ten
people into work. The size of the challenge is enormous and each of these
individuals have so many complex needs as well so the resources are many and
varied and individual and bespoke. So we have a job on our hands but we have the
money, we have the will and the partnerships in place so hopefully we
can turn people's lives around.
Okey -doke.
If we can then move on to the recommendations,
can we note the proposed plan for delivering
the second year of the Economic Inactivity Trailblazer Programme?
Thank you.
And approve the acceptance of funding
for the second year of the Economic Inactivity Trailblazer.
Thank you.
Delegate the development of the delivery plan
to the chief executive in consultation
with myself and the chair of the Economy Board.
Great stuff.
Thank you.
We're almost half way.
We're over halfway through.
It's 20 past 12.
We're on a downhill slope.
So please do keep your comments nice and lean.
Moving on to Wakefield Futures and early years workforce.

12 Wakefield Futures and Early Years Workforce

And it's an update on the region of learning and creativity
work.
We're making real progress in Wakefield
and across West Yorkshire, building a skill
system that works for everyone.
Can I publicly thank Wakefield Futures Commission
for their bold and ambitious recommendations,
The proposals for a new innovation centre and targeted sector development show where
is possible, where we think big and act locally.
Also the early years workforce plan moving forward is great to see, it's a vital sector.
Practical steps outlined on recruitment, training and progression will help us build a stronger,
more diverse workforce for the future.
And these reports together show how we're delivering on our pledge to make sure West
which is a place where everyone, whatever their background,
can access the skills and support they need.
So can I ask Councillor Lewis,
as the chair of the Economy Committee,
to speak to the report.
Thank you, Councillor.
Thank you, Mayor, I know your comments about being brief.
Cllr James Lewis (Leeds City Council) - 1:24:10
So I think there's two bits of work here.
You've introduced the Wakefield work,
a really positive bit of work
to look at a real challenge in Wakefield.
Maybe Denise would like to say more
More about that, I look at Wakefield across the river from my ward, but I'm sure Denise
will be able to talk about the work there in more detail.
But I do think alongside some of the other real locality -based works like the Innovation
Partnership in Leeds and other projects, it shows where we can bring a lot of the strategic
objectives we have down to a real local level.
The second piece is the early years workforce plan around recognising the key role that
early years quality education and childcare plays for children but also for supporting
our work in the, our work around having a more productive economy as well and there's
good recommendations here about how we can improve work in the sector.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:25:13
Thank you and also to say that the recommendations from Wakefield Futures have also gone to the
new Secretary of State, Pakmatt Fadden, who's now got responsibilities for DWP and skills,
because we want to be seen as an innovator in this space, because this is the first time
we've done something like this.
And it is not right that the people of Wakefield seemingly don't have the opportunities of
people across West Yorkshire in order to get those skills, training, and qualifications.
So, Denise, would you like to say anything?
Cllr Carole Pattison (Kirklees Council) - 1:25:44
I would say that this is an amazing thing that we're doing and I think Wakefield can
really benefit from it so I'm fully supportive of it.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:25:56
Thank you so much and also moving on to Felix for final thoughts.
Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:26:04
Thank you Mayor. These are really two pivotal pieces of work which will feed into the original
and creativity strategy that we are developing
and into our actions across our whole remit.
For the Wakefield piece of work,
the key stat when we were doing
the Lookout Growth Plan last year
was that high level attainment,
first year university equivalent,
Wakefield is almost 20 percentage points below the average.
So it's about 26, 27%, I think,
And it's around 43, I think about 46 % elite,
as an example.
And for a long time, many people have said this
because there's no university in Wakefield.
And this was an opportunity for us
to ask the more fundamental questions.
And the commission that was set up looked into this
and have produced this report, which was launched last week,
which looks at both the supply and demand side of the economy
and the low -skilled, low -wage equilibrium that has existed for the last few decades
and tries to then give us a set of recommendations which, if we are able to implement even half of them,
could trigger a level of transformation in the middle market.
So we hope you are minded to approve this and if you are, we then feed this into the rest of the work we're doing.
On early years, again, really pivotal piece of work.
So normally, the combined authority does not have any levers in this space.
But as system leaders, it is important for us not just because, important as it is, our
children have the best start in life, but because if we get this right, it's another
way of increasing economic participation and driving greater prosperity into our homes.
And so again, we commissioned this piece of work to understand what's a mirror commitment,
to understand what is the state of the workforce and how can we be helpful.
And we've shared the report here, which I hope you've been able to have a look at.
And again, if you are minded to approve this or to endorse it, we then take it into the rest of our work
and where we can help to implement it, that is what we will do. Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:28:21
Thank you so much, Felix. And sorry to rush you, I could listen to you all day.
But I'm giving you the glare to speed up.
Okay, thank you so much. So are we happy to endorse the recommendations in the Wakefield
Futures Commission Fund report? Thank you. And also endorse recommendations in the early
years workforce plan. Thank you so much. Okeydoke, moving on to driving innovation across the

13 Driving Innovation Across the Region

region. This is an update on our plans to drive innovation as the report sets out a
huge opportunity to boost productivity and unlock growth. I'm encouraged by the proposals
around the local innovation partnership fund with at least 30 million allocated from government
earmarked for West Yorkshire. We have a real chance to accelerate research, commercialisation
and business development in every corner of our region. I'm also pleased to see strong
governance at the heart of this work. The board will bring together voices from business,
academia, government and communities ensuring we have the right expertise guiding our innovation
ambitions and it's building a future where West Yorkshire leads the way on ideas on
enterprise and inclusive growth. If I could come initially to Councillor Lewis
and then Mandy and then Felix. Thank you. Councillor. Thank you and again you've
Cllr James Lewis (Leeds City Council) - 1:29:44
covered the main points in this report in your introduction but again it's
another one around how we can use the power of evolution and the work and the
if we've got to deliver growth on the ground.
Thank you.
Mandy?
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:29:59
I think everything is within the paper,
Mandy Ridyard (West Yorkshire Business Board) - 1:30:10
but I think it's important whilst we do this work
to keep a direct line of sight to business growth
and how this generates it,
not just to become innovation for,
as an esoteric word,
that it has to have a result at the end of it.
Thank you and finally Felix.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:30:25
Thank you Mayor.
Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:30:30
It's an opportunity for us to look at innovation which is the key driver of productivity which
is the only way in which we can grow prosperity.
So we have an opportunity, we've already been doing this, this fund that we are going to
have access to from UKRI and from government.
It's not the only source of activity through our investment zones. We're already investing in various sectors to grow innovation
This will be an another opportunity
But the key ask of the board
If you mind it to is to give us the permission to go and explore the options to set up this innovation board
That is the main asking this paper. We do not have one
We've not had one before we would have been asked who would have come here to ask you anyway
To do this, even if this fund was not forthcoming by this fund and this is a having a board is a requirement of it
It's just sped up our activity given us a sense of urgency to make sure we put we put that in place
We recognise there are different arrangements that exist in our places
So we haven't a look at all of that and we'll come back to you with what?
Preferred option would look like when you meet again, but we need to submit
to UKRI in November our plans, which if you are minded to approve that, we then will access
the funding from April onwards. Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:31:53
Thank you so much. I'm always making the case to Government that surely innovation funds
should be just delegated to mayors, rather than going through this whole process of Wave
One, etcetera, UKRI. But that's for a future conversation.
Thank you so much Felix. Any further comments? No, thank you so much. Okay, so are we happy
to approve the approach set out in the report? We are. And approve the establishment of an
innovation board and draught terms of reference to oversee regional innovation activity and
support UKRI readiness cheques. Lovely, thank you. Okay, moving on to approvals. Our first

14 Project Approvals

approval for your consideration is Bradford City Village, an update on our
investment in placemaking and housing -led regeneration, a significant
step forward for Bradford City Village, a transformational scheme that will bring
new homes, green spaces and community facilities to the heart of the city. I'm
really pleased to see progress on phase two and the request for development
funding reflects the scale and ambition of what's been delivered, creating that
vibrant inclusive neighbourhood that supports a mix of 10 years, improves access to public transport
and helps revitalise the city centre. If I could come to yourself,
Councillor Jeffrey as chair of place regeneration housing and then to Councillor Hinchliffe.
Cllr Carole Pattison (Kirklees Council) - 1:33:17
Thank you Mayor. As you know, Bradford's city village is the top priority for Bradford Council
and for us in the surrounding region. This scheme is set to transform the centre of Bradford
into a vibrant place to live and work. The change request we're discussing
today is just one piece of a large puzzle to deliver this vision. This
element of funding will help us in advance the design for this phase which
is an essential part of creating a significant shift in the residential
market in the city centre. If approved together we are making really important
steps towards a brighter future for Bradford. I'm sure Susan's gonna say a
more about it thank you Susan then Liz
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:33:57
Cllr Carole Pattison (Kirklees Council) - 1:33:58
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair) - 1:34:02
thank you Councillor Jeffries and a mayor for this investment going forward
it is a new regeneration never stops does it really you have to keep going
Mentum is really building in Bradford and we're really delighted to see that
off the back of Bradford live and you markets in Bradford Art Centre next
month we've had National Media Museum investment in and obviously City of
Culture is really building up to be a fantastic finale to the end of the year
So it's all very exciting in Bradford alone
And this just shows that you know end 2035 it just keeps going and that's exactly what it should be
So our legacy is gonna be regeneration growth
Creating a great place people to live and work and obviously the transport ambitions is so central for West Yorkshire combined authority and us us to
Deliver is really important for this regeneration work
So having that new rail station in the middle of Bradford, getting mass transit, bus franchising,
all those things really helped lift all of us in West Yorkshire.
But particularly in this instance as we're talking about Bradford, obviously it's crucial
for Bradford City Centre as well.
So thank you very much for the continued investment there.
Thank you and over to yourself Liz.
Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:35:08
Liz Hunter, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:35:11
So as members will remember, you gave approvals previously to continue the work on this project.
We will come back to you with further decisions around phase two.
The decision today is for the development funding has already been clearly set out.
So there's a bigger decision really to come on the funding and this development funding enables the project to continue whilst we do the work
to answer some of the questions that you all rightly asked us about in terms of the funding and financing options for phase two going forward.
So just wanted to be clear that there is this is as you as I think everybody said regeneration is a continued and set of
decisions and as we
Continue such large -scale and plans
So this is very much a small amount of money for development funding and then we'll be coming back to you with a with a bigger
Decision around some of that and funding and financing for phase 2 beyond it if you approve this today. Thank you
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:36:05
Thank you so much any questions on Bradford City Village. No, thank you so much
So are we happy to approve Bradford City Village scheme to progress through the assurance process?
including agreement to the change request for development funding and approval to enter into funding agreement with
English cities fund with future decisions to follow the assurance pathway and approval routes set out in the report
subject to scheme tolerances
We are lovely. Thank you so much

15 Portfolio Summary

So the next item is Huddersfield bus station and an update on our investment there
Significant step forward for Huddersfield bus station a scheme that's going to deliver a safer more modern and accessible
public transport hub at the heart of town
Going to be in the weave of branding as I mentioned earlier as we continue to roll out our new transport brand in the most
Cost -effective way. I know how important this facility is to local residents and businesses and I thank them for their patience
but I'm pleased to see progress being made. I also want to acknowledge the scale of ambition here. The funding commitment is
significant and it's right that members are cited on the increased forecast costs as we move towards a full business case.
Can I ask Councillor Hinchliffe to speak then Carol Patterson, leader of Kirklees Council, followed by Simon. Thank you.
Thank you. Simon Pope, sorry. Thank you very much Councillor Hinchliffe.
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair) - 1:37:28
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:37:30
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe (Chair) - 1:37:33
Thank you, Mayor. Yes, it's great to see this investment going in and also the
start as you know Weaver, Brandon going throughout West Yorkshire because it's
it's going to be gradual roll out so we can actually make sure we scale up a
financially prudent manner and therefore it'd be lovely to see. I've seen some
drawings it looks great and all these transport hubs are opportunities to
regeneration in our towns and city centres. So over to Councillor Paterson.
Cllr Denise Jeffery (Wakefield Council) - 1:38:00
Yes, and on that note, I mean, it is really part of our whole master plan for Huddersfield
and it will be great. We've already started on our part of the work in terms of the bus,
not the bus stop, the car park above the bus station and that's looking really, really
good. Not completed, but it's really progressing and really looking forward to see, yes, the
to complete the scheme. Lots of ambitions for the heart of Huddersfield. I know that
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:38:29
you've got to, this is just one part of your plan. So Simon Pope, Transport
Capital Programme Director. Thank you Mayor. The scheme involves refurbishment of the
Simon Pope, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:38:41
bus station itself which is led by the combined authority and the delivery of a
new canopy and public realm adjacent to the bus station which is being led by
Kirklees Council. Members may recall that the outline business case for the
combined scheme was approved by the combined authority in October 2022 with
the total cost at that time of 20 million pounds. Approval that we're
seeking is for release of a further nine hundred and ninety three thousand pounds
of development costs for an early enabling works to divert utilities in
order to shorten and de -risk later delivery of the main project. The full
business case which is due to be considered by the combined authority in
January is expected to indicate an increased cost of 27 million pounds for
scheme which is due to represents a seven million pound increase from the
outline approval a million pounds of which will be offset through an
increased contribution from the Kirklees Council. We're therefore bringing the
decision to release further development budget to the command authority to
socialise the increased cost of the scheme prior to full approval noting
that the instruction of enabling works it will enable demonstrates an implied
commitment to future delivery. The reasons for cost escalation since the
outline approval are set out in the report and will be considered further on
presentation of the full approval in January that include complex site constraints, the
risk of introducing future maintenance liabilities and the need to maintain live operations during
delivery.
Despite the increased cost, the scheme still represents median value for money and has
a comparable cost per stand to other bus station improvement schemes that are delivered or
in construction.
Funding for this scheme is through a combination of the Transforming Cities Fund grant from
and gain share capital with the increased cost to be met through allocation from the programme level contingency pot without further impacting on the ability to deliver other schemes within the TCF programme.
And as the largest bus station in West Yorkshire, the enhanced facility will provide a front door onto the franchise network once that launches in Huddersfield in April 2024.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:40:38
Super and I wonder if you could just reassure the committee that value engineering had has been undertaken in
The design in order to keep that increase as low as possible
Absolutely
Simon Pope, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:40:49
We've undertaken a series of rounds of value engineering
We try to get the right balance between ensuring the scheme stays within an affordable envelope
But also avoids the introduction of maintenance liabilities in future that would cost more to resolve out with the main project
Thank you.
Councillor Lecce.
Thank you, Mayor.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:41:06
Just very clear, I support the scheme.
It would be really good for Huddersfield.
No issues with that.
Cllr Alan Lamb Leeds City Council - 1:41:12
I just want to understand better the cost increase because it's not the first time we've
been in this position with schemes and reading through the justification for it, there's
nothing really there that wasn't known when the original costing was put together.
So I suppose part one is to understand how we were so far out in the first place and
two what things we are going to put in place to make sure when we are costing things going
forward that we stick within the funding envelope because there is a knock on somewhere, this
is £6 million that can't be spent on something else now.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:41:57
Thank you. This is my constant challenge because we have to understand, obviously inflation,
war, all of those other things have escalated costs, but we also need value for money. And
this is public money and we can't be dilettante with public money. We have to understand why
Simon Pope, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:42:18
we are making these decisions. So Simon? Thank you Maria. You are right, inflation
Has played its part but undertaking further detailed technical works and feasibility particularly with regards the library way tunnels
That sit beneath the site has identified additional costs. I think the other thing that has since come to light is
associated with
Possessions in Huddersfield town centre on the back of the transparent route upgrade which means that our flexibility to
Decant services on the street during construction has been more limited than originally anticipated
Therefore the programme for delivery of the works is more lengthy and therefore more costly.
We have looked at alternative scenarios around that.
Our conclusion is that it's more prudent to keep services within the bus station, particularly
during the launch of franchising, to provide a consistent offer to the customer.
I think finally we obviously learnt from our experience with delivering a Halifax bus station
and indeed the recovery of Bradford Interchange following that closure.
We're ensuring that there's lessons learned to carry it forward into the development of
and will indeed be carried forward on future schemes beyond Huddersfield itself.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:43:20
Thank you and maybe it would be worth just sharing more information with the committee?
Yes, very happy to do so.
Excuse me.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:43:30
Okay, so any further questions?
Thank you.
So are we happy to approve the Huddersfield bus station scheme to progress through the

16 Future Organisation State

assurance process including agreement to the change request for additional development

15 Portfolio Summary

funding as outlined in the report and approved to enter into an addendum to the existing
funding agreement with Curtry's Council and confirmation that future decisions will follow
the assurance pathway and approval routes set out in the paper.
Good stuff, thank you. Moving on to the next item which is the portfolio summary. This
is an update on our capital investment, thank you Mike, update on our capital investment
portfolio. As the report sets out we're managing a transport programme worth
around 2 .5 billion, the largest share of our capital funding and it's delivering
real improvements across West Yorkshire. This gives us a clear pitch of where we
are and what we need to do to stay on track. So if I could invite Kate Taylor, our
Director of Finance and Commercial Services, to take us through the report.
Kate Taylor, Director West Yorkshire Combined Authority - 1:44:36
Thank you Kate. Thank you. I will in the essence of time take the report as read.
This is the usual report that you get ultimately there is no new decisions as a result of this
This is kind of capturing up all the decisions that have been previously taken and showing the impact on the funds
and information
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:44:59
Thank you any questions on the portfolio summary no, thank you
Are we happy to note the portfolio summary information outlined in the report?
Wonderful, thank you. I think I might just keep my voice by the end of this meeting.

16 Future Organisation State

The next item, 16, future organisations state. As colleagues know that the Government's English
Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill marks a major shift in how mayors and combined
authorities operate and I'm proud that West Yorkshire is helping to shape that future.
The report in front of us sets out how our organisation will need to evolve, moving towards
a strategic authority model that focuses on commissioning, on convening and influencing
rather than the direct service delivery. I am encouraged by the review that's been carried
out. It's clear we need the right expertise at the right level to deliver for the people
of West Yorkshire. This is about building that organisation that's fit for the future,
one that can lead on housing, on health, on public safety and strategic planning and continue
to deliver with impact across all of our priorities. Can I ask Ben Still, our Chief Executive,
to take us through recommendations?
Thank you, Chair. I think as you said in your opening remarks, this is a time of change
Ben Still, Chief Executive (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:46:15
and transformation for all combined authorities. So this paper is setting out the future insofar
as we take account of the things that we know, but of course it is indicative and has been
as noted earlier in the meeting, things can change.
The other thing to say is that this is a paper that is focused on this organisation, recognising
that the things that the Combined Authority achieves are all done through partnership.
And that's important to keep sight of that, but this paper is about the organisation as
it stands.
I need to begin with an apology and ask for a change to the recommendations, which I think
requires a bit of a vote to agree that. But some of the paragraph numbering and set -out
in the paper has gone a bit awry. And in particular, the second recommendation, 2 .2, which says
to endorse the proposals set out in paragraphs 1 .3 .14 to 3 .16, that doesn't relate to the
paragraphs in the report. So my proposal is that we change that to more generically say
that the proposal is set out in the report itself. So I think, as it ended, we just need
to, when we come to it, need to vote on that change as well as vote to that recommendation.
What the paper does is, as the mayor has said, is looks at the seven areas of competency
set out in the English Devolution and Empowerment Bill, looks at the kinds of roles that the
Combined Authority is likely to need to undertake, and then draws conclusions about what the
likely impact on the resourcing requirements and operating model of the organisation would
be. In terms of operating model, that is, there's
clear need that we've identified as offices for the organisation to become
more agile, for it to begin to adopt a more matrix management approach and a
project approach and you'll see that both in future papers and in the way
that we bring information to the combined authority. So we need to change
the way that the organisation operates internally in order to be fit for
purpose for the future requirements that we're going to face. Within that
We've also recognised that some of the skill sets within the organisation need to evolve.
So the paper that comes after this one that Joe Dent, our head of people transformation, will outline,
responds to previous member requests for what does the future resourcing strategy and future skill set look like.
So we'll come to that in that later paper.
But I think it's fair to say that it is a substantial and significant change in skill sets that the organisation will require.
And then the third piece is that we've looked, we've undertaken a benchmarking exercise looking
across other combined authorities to draw conclusions from what is best practise across
the CAs that are developing across England.
And you'll see from the paper that there is commonality in the challenges that we face
and most mature combined authorities are going through similar processes that we're going
through.
The recommendation is particularly the second one, then seeks endorsement to the conclusion
that we've reached as officers, which is that we've looked at the operating model of the
organisation and in particular the Greater Manchester model of creating more arm's length
bodies in order to have different delivery vehicles for different parts of the work of
the combined authority.
We've concluded that at the present time there's the balance of benefit is in having a single
coherent organisation for the reasons set out in the paper but we will of
course keep that under review given future pressures and priorities.
So I'll probably pause there, Mayor, thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:50:19
Lovely. Any questions or comments? No? Okay, thank you.
So, Sotinda, do we need to take a vote on the change of the recommendation?
Please, Mayor.
Are we happy to change the recommendation 2 .2 to endorse the proposals in the report?
report not to implement arms length bodies at this time? We're happy to do that. Okie
doke. So are we happy to note the work being done on the future direction of the Combined
Authority? And can we endorse the proposals in the report to not implement arms length
bodies at this time? And finally, endorse the proposal relating to the operating model
and structure of the Combined Authority with a decision paper to be brought to the CA on
structure later this year.
Excellent.
Thank you so much.
Super.
Now moving on to item 17, future resource readiness.
As you've heard, this is about making sure we have the right people with the right skills

17 Future Resourcing Readiness

in the right roles to deliver on our strategic priorities.
We're taking a proactive approach.
It's not just about filling posts but building that resilient, agile workforce that reflects
the communities we serve and leads, by example, on inclusion and fairness.
And I'm particularly encouraged by the focus on data -driven workforce planning.
That kind of insight will help us forecast future needs, identify risks early and make
smarter decisions how we grow and adapt.
And also about aligning our people with the major programmes we're delivering from bus
franchising to mass transit and preparing for the wider responsibilities that come with becoming a
Mayoral strategic authority. So may I ask Joe Dent our assistant director of people in transformation to take us through the recommendations
Thank you, man
Ben Still, Chief Executive (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:52:12
So we've brought this paper
To the combined Authority today to no progress on how we are beginning to address and identify the needs the organisation
Jo Dent (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:52:21
requires to actually deliver all the many projects that have been tabled and more today.
So the paper sets out the structure for the approach about how we are meeting the resourcing
requirements that we have now, but how we are also looking ahead as part of our business
planning, part of our business goals, in terms of the skills, the risks, the needs as we
go forward.
So, we are, the initial data that we've shared with you today has been a very early first
cut of what we've actually identified and I think it's important to note that actually
identifying that is a key part to us developing strategies to actually put plans in place
to address that.
So, understanding that data is informing what we're doing in terms of our future recruitment
strategies. It's informing how and where we get our graduates. It's informing how we actually develop our people internally
and giving us a long -term view in how we can actually achieve that.
Something else that's important to note is we are really conscious of as we develop those strategies, policies and procedures that support this
resource in plan. We are doing that in line with what
our communities here, around our partners.
We've met with colleagues at Leeds, colleagues in Bradford.
Interestingly, we're really happy to note
that the LGEA, as a result of this paper being published,
has already asked us to actually go and present
the work we've done so far on the 26th of November
at their workforce planning meeting.
So we are working in conjunction with local colleges,
universities around how and where we find people. We acknowledge and we will
develop risks as we actually go through and the plans because we know that we've
we've got a competing market and many of many of the combined authorities very
close to us are looking to do very similar things. So unless any other
questions. It's just really to note progress so far. Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 1:54:46
Thank you. Any comments or questions? Great stuff. Are we happy to note the progress on
the resourcing and talent strategic priorities and the alignment of the approach for the
CA's transition to an outcome -focused operating model? We are? Perfect.
Moving on to item 18, integrated business budget and resource planning. As the report
sets out we're preparing for the 26 -27 planning cycle, pleasing to see a clear structured
approach that builds on the work we've already done to align our priorities with the West
Yorkshire Plan. This is about making sure our financial and workforce planning is robust,

18 Integrated Business, Budget and Resource Planning

forward -looking and fully integrated and I'm encouraged by the emphasis on the strategic
alignment with the new powers set out in the English devolution and community empowerment
bill and the role that we are expected to play as a male strategic authority.
I also welcome the focus of the medium -term financial planning.
It's really vital we understand the pressures and risks ahead, whether that's inflation,
interest rates or delivery capacity, and that we have a clear plan to maintain financial
sustainability.
And also pleasing to see the workforce planning embedded in this process and essential we
continue to build organisational readiness and ensure we have the skills and capacity
to deliver across all of our missions. May I ask Sarah Eaton, our Director of Strategy,
Communications and Intelligence to take us through the recommendations. Sarah.
Ben Still, Chief Executive (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:56:13
Thank you, Mayor. So this report is essentially setting out the approach to multi -year integrated
business budget and resource planning for the coming period as you've just outlined.
I think colleagues will note that we brought a report last year and we launched kind of that multi -year approach and
in May we brought the corporate plan and
outlined our approach in terms of delivery planning for the coming period.
That report also talked about a kind of review, an annual review that would take place.
So even though we've kind of got a four -year plan, it's important that we kind of review that on an annual basis.
So the strategic planning cycle now is underway for 2026 -27
Sarah Eaton, Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 1:56:52
and we're working to make sure that plans are relevant.
And that's really important in terms of making sure
that what we're looking at is fit for purpose
to meet our ambitions as you've outlined.
I think what the report sets out is kind of the work,
you've mentioned some of the strategic climate work
that we're taking place,
kind of looking at funding and delivery risks,
and also the work that we're looking to do
around the medium -term financial planning cycle,
particularly around ensuring that kind of the activity
is affordable and that there's a plan to achieve financial sustainability moving forward.
And as we've outlined, I think a key focus for this year is integration of that resource
planning, and that's a new area that we're looking to build into this approach, which
I think is really important in making sure that we've got that really well evidenced
plan moving forward.
So the timetable set out in this report, I think what we will be doing is fetching another
report in October, which will look at prioritisation and the work that we've already started on
business planning with a view to fetching the draught budget in early December to the next meeting.
I think just to kind of indicate what is in the report, obviously and we've talked about it previously,
I think the report that we brought to yourselves at the last meeting provided an update on kind of where we are with evolution and the integrated settlement.
There are a number of key interdependencies between that work and clearly the work around the integrated settlement will impact on kind of the plans that we're putting in place,
particularly in terms of the quantum integrator settlement, which we
there's a note in there about autumn and we know autumn can stretch quite long
period of time, but that will clearly have an impact as well kind of
agreement the outcomes framework and that outcomes framework where it will
take place is just kicking off and will move up until December but really clear
that that's going to kind of impact on some of the work that we're doing over
current period so I just really want to highlight that. We've also, because
we've kind of brought forward this timescale and we were talking about this
in October last year, we've brought forward our public consultation so you'll
note in the paper that we launched our public consultation last week and the
details in there about what that consultation is covering, that will run
to the end of September and that's really important because what we want to
do is make sure that the views of the public can feed into the approach that
we are taking forward.
The next steps are set out in the paper I've just outlined.
I think the other thing that's in the paper,
and I think it's important that we're looking beyond,
we're continually looking forward,
but it's the work that we're planning to do
around the medium -term financial strategy
and our medium -term business plan,
which will look beyond 2028,
and I think it's the intention
and the dates to set out the paper
for us to start that work in March 2026.
So this means it's an important part of the process
in terms of continually looking forward,
particularly given some of the things
that we've talked about today around devolution,
the role of the combined authority
as a strategic mayoral authority,
and some of the big projects around bus franchise
and the mass transit coming forward that we continually
look to that kind of medium -term position.
So I'll stop there.
Thank you.
Sorry you had to rattle through that.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 2:00:00
But it's 1 o 'clock.
Also, just very quickly to say that it's something
that we campaigned for extensively
that integrated single settlement.
so it is pleasing that we're on our way with it.
Any questions?
No, thank you so much.
Are we happy to note the multi -year planning approach 2024 -28 being undertaken for the
26 -27 planning cycle?
We are, thank you.
And to note the implications of devolution and the integrated settlement of future business
budget and resource planning, wonderful, and also to receive an update on the approach
to budget consultation for 26 -27.

19 Scrutiny Update: "School Travel" policy Call In and "Mayoral Soft Power" Recommendations

Great stuff, thank you. Moving on to item 19, the scrutiny update.
Thank you to the scrutiny chair and to your committee for your thoughtful engagement,
both on the school travel policy decision and on the wider conversation about the mayoral
soft power. Really important issues and I welcome the constructive challenge and ideas
put forward. As the report confirms, the committee resolved to release the school travel policy
decision for implementation and I'm grateful for your careful consideration
of the matter. Minutes and the webcast are available for anyone to have a look
at. Could I ask a Councillor Barry Anderson, chair of the scrutiny committee,
to speak to the report followed by Satinder Sahota, interim
assistant director of legal governance and compliance to take us through the
recommendations. And over to yourself.
and
Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair) - 2:01:33
Not a lot to add in terms of what's in the report here. We welcome the responses back from the mayor
They'll be taking this Christian tomorrow for the switching board to have a look further look at
To come back again, and we you will note that in paragraph one that we're going to come forward with some further
recommendations
as a result of the call and where
There's lessons to be learned the call and procedures etc need to be looked at
but we would commend this report to you and thank you for everyone who participated.
Thank you. Sir Tinder.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 2:02:07
Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair) - 2:02:09
Thank you, Mayor. Thank you, Councillor Anderson. Nothing much further to add.
Safe to say that from my perspective, very grateful to members and officers for the constructive and helpful discussion that was had at that call -in meeting
Satinder Sahota, Interim Assistant Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 2:02:20
and also to the Chair of Scrutiny, Councillor Anderson, for his chairmanship.
Thank you, Mayor. Back to you for the recommendations.
Cllr Barry Anderson (WYCA Scrutiny Chair) - 2:02:29
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 2:02:32
Thank you. Any further comments? No, thank you. Are we happy to note the outcome of the
call -in meeting on the 22nd of August and my response to scrutiny's recommendations

20 Governance Arrangements

on Meryl Soft Power? Thank you. Moving on, item 20. Now, unfortunately, mistakenly, this
item, governance arrangements, was omitted from the online pack due to a technical error.
Paper copies, you'll see, were distributed to members and for public inspection.
As the brief cover report sets out, we're making two important appointments, both of
which will strengthen our leadership and resilience across the organisation.
In accordance with procedures standing orders, I propose the recommendations in the report
as a motion.
Can I ask Satinder Sahota to take us through the report?
Thank you, Mayor.
Satinder Sahota, Interim Assistant Director (West Yorkshire Combined Authority) - 2:03:23
Nothing much further to add just to highlights to members and get for their confirmation that you all have a hard copy of the report
please
Thank you
So as the report sets out at paragraphs 1 .1 and 1 .2 we have appointments to the thematic committees
The individuals who are going to be appointed to those thematic committees are set out between paragraphs 3 .1 and 3 .4
The second purpose of this report is to appoint a Deputy Section 73 Officer and that detail
is set out at paragraph 3 .5 of the report before you members. Thank you.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire - 2:04:04
Thank you so much. So are we happy to appoint, Sir Tinda it's fine to go to recommendations
now, yes. Are we happy to appoint Karl Oxford as the Deputy Chair for the Place Regeneration
and Housing Committee.
Excellent.
And appoint Mandy Rijad as Deputy Chair of the Economy Committee.
Thank you.
And approve the appointment of Jane Close
as Deputy Section 73 Officer with effect
from 19th of September, 2025.
Thank you.
That finishes that item.
But can I just very quickly say, this is your last meeting,
Sir Tinda.
Thank you so much for everything that you've
done for our organisation and your contribution.
You've felt an absolutely safe pair of hands and you've guided us through some
changes and occasional choppy waters. So thank you and I wish you
all the best. I'm sure everybody will agree with me for your next steps and
they're very lucky to have you, whoever they are. So thank you very much to
Tinder. Okie doke. So we've come to the end of the meeting. Just for the minutes

For Information

for information which provides members with details of minutes from other
committees as well as summaries from formal meetings that have been published

21 Minutes for Information and Summaries of Committee Meetings

on our website since the last meeting. So thank you colleagues, that was a marathon
meeting, thank you for your input, it's been packed with plenty to get through

22 Date of the Next Meeting

and I'm really grateful to see the way that everybody worked together to get
that through. And just to end, can I remind everyone please of the next
meeting 16th of October 2025 and I hereby close the meeting. Thank you.
Mr Mike Birch
West Yorkshire Combined Authority
View profile Mr Mike Birch
John Roberts
West Yorkshire Combined Authority
View profile John Roberts