The Investment Board of West Yorkshire Combined Authority approved significant funding for transport infrastructure, skills development, and economic initiatives. Key decisions included allocating over £14 million for three transport schemes in Leeds, Huddersfield, and Bradford, approving substantial investment in skills and employment support programmes, and endorsing projects aimed at boosting the professional and business services sector and improving energy transition for businesses.

Transport and Local Infrastructure

The Board approved funding for three significant transport infrastructure projects. The Westgate Connector scheme in Leeds received £5,826,972 to improve pedestrian and cyclist facilities between Burley Road and the Headrow. Despite some concerns raised by Councillor Raph Cohn about the scheme's value for money and modelling, the Board ultimately approved its progression.

In Huddersfield, the Brunswick Street Footpath Improvements scheme was allocated £428,694 to upgrade a key pedestrian and cycle route connecting residential areas to the town centre and transport hubs. A question regarding the cost of electricity supply for new lighting columns was clarified, and the scheme was approved.

The A6177 Toller Lane Junction Improvement Scheme in Bradford received £6,642,139, with a further £255,000 for development costs, to improve traffic flow, safety, and active travel provisions at a congested junction. Councillor Ian Eaglin spoke in favour of the scheme, highlighting the need for improvements in the area. The Board also approved the release of the remaining funding subject to conditions.

Skills and Employment Support

A significant investment was made in skills and employment support through the Region of Learning and Creativity programme. The Board approved £2,982,750 for Strand 2 of the programme, which focuses on careers support, and a further £150,000 for Strand 1, aimed at de-risking hiring for businesses. Development funding of £50,000 was also approved for a targeted work experience programme. Councillor Ian Eaglin raised concerns about the future of Employment West Yorkshire (EWY) and its funding cliff edge, but Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director of Inclusive Economy, Skills and Culture, explained that the current funding was specifically for careers and that work was ongoing to secure future funding for EWY.

Economic Development

Two key economic development schemes were approved. The Made Smarter Professional and Business Services pilot received £9,177,699 to help SMEs in the sector adopt digital technologies and improve productivity. Councillor Raph Cohn expressed scepticism about grant-based funding, but Felix Kumi-Ampofo assured the Board that the scheme was a pilot and would be adapted based on learnings. The Energy Transition and Security scheme was allocated an additional £1,250,000, bringing the total scheme cost to £2,040,165, to support businesses in improving energy security, reducing carbon emissions, and increasing productivity. Councillor Sarah Courtney highlighted the importance of monitoring the outcomes of these schemes.

Creative Industries, Culture, Heritage and Sport

The West Yorkshire Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) (Phase 3) received a funding increase of £461,500, bringing the total Combined Authority funding to £961,500. The delivery timescales were also extended to October 2028. This funding will support marketing campaigns, the development of bookable products, and training for businesses within the visitor economy. Mayor Tracy Brabin expressed pride in West Yorkshire's cultural assets and the potential of this scheme to boost tourism.