DROP-IN sessions are planned across Wharfedale as part of a major consultation to shape the future of West Yorkshire's bus networks.

People's views are being sought on bus and transport services across the region.

And feedback from the three-month consultation will be used to develop new, 20-year strategies.

Behind the initiative is the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, in partnership with district councils and bus operators including Transdev.

Councillor Taj Salam, a Bradford councillor and member of the combined authority's transport committee, said: "Buses are by far the most highly used form of public transport, with about 180 million journeys being made in West Yorkshire every year.

"Although they are effective at relieving congestion and connecting people with jobs, training and essential services, they can too often be seen as expensive, unreliable and a last resort rather than a positive choice.

"The combined authority has long recognised the important role bus services play in underpinning our economy and it has worked with bus operators to achieve improvements such as the MCard smartcard, real-time information and modern, low-emission vehicles.

"We want to hear the views of people who use buses, but if we are going to develop a bus network that more people will choose to use in the future, we also want to hear from people who don't or won't use them now.

"We will also be talking to organisations representing groups such as disabled, younger and older people to ensure their views are represented.

"This is an important process that will shape the bus system for the next 20 years, so I hope as many people as possible will take the opportunity to voice their aspirations."

Cllr Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council's regeneration, planning and transport portfolio holder, also urges people to give their views.

"Transport is an ever-present issue at mine and my colleagues' surgery sessions – with bus services very high on the list – so I'm pleased to see this consultation process getting under way," he said.

"I'd urge everyone to have their say."

The Ilkley drop-in session is at the library on August 12, from 1pm to 4pm.

The Yeadon session takes place at Leeds Bradford Airport from 1.30pm to 4.30pm on August 11, while the Horsforth event will be held at Morrisons from 11am to 2pm on September 7.

Teams from the combined authority, bus operators and district councils will be on hand to answer questions.

People can also comment online at the yourtravelyoursay.co.uk website.