A bold challenge to the status quo: West Yorkshire’s planned publicly owned electric bus fleet is drawing fire from campaigners who argue that the design relies on a single door, making it harder for people with mobility needs or those pushing prams.
The region is preparing to roll out a franchised bus network by 2028, with fare levels, routes, and timetables ultimately guided by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. A consultation recently opened for buses that will operate on the Weaver Network, inviting input on features like ramps and Wi‑Fi.
Gareth Forest, chair of Better Buses for West Yorkshire, announced a mass bus-boarding protest at Leeds Bus Station on Wednesday to demonstrate the practical hurdles of boarding single‑door buses. He explained that campaign supporters would bring wheelchairs, strollers, suitcases, and other bulky items to illustrate how inaccessible the current designs can be, with the goal of loading as many buses as necessary to accommodate all wheelchair users and parents with children.
The group is urging West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin to double the doors on the new fleet. Forest argued that in London and across Europe, buses commonly feature two or three sets of doors, which speeds up boarding and enhances safety and ease for everyone. He warned that public control of the buses offers an opportunity to implement such changes, but criticized the mayor for committing to a 500‑bus fleet of single‑door vehicles.
According to Forest, easier boarding would shorten journeys for all riders by freeing up space and accelerating on/off flow. He also proposed reintroducing conductors so drivers wouldn’t have to handle every task, pointing out that drivers currently must drive, collect fares, ensure orderly boarding, and oversee safety—a workload he views as unfair.
A spokesperson for the West Yorkshire Combined Authority responded that bringing buses back under public control requires time, including upgrading infrastructure as part of the new Weaver Network’s repair-and-replace plan. While acknowledging the benefits of double doors, the spokesperson noted that existing path widths, bus station layouts, and stop designs may complicate a second exit. They added that feedback will be considered as the region works toward a better-connected system that serves all residents.
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