LOCAL councillors are calling for action to save 'vital' bus routes connecting North West Leeds.

Councillors Paul Wadsworth and Paul Alderson (Conservative, Guiseley and Rawdon Ward) were commenting after news that a contract with Transdev to operate bus services 948, 962, 966 and Dash in the Otley, Ilkley, Guiseley and Yeadon areas will expire on February 19th.

West Yorkshire Combined Authority West Yorkshire Combined Authority have invited tenders for the continued operation of the services, but interest from prospective operators has reportedly been low, leading to fears that only a partial operation of services may be able to be offered in the future.

Cllrs Wadsworth and Alderson said urgent action was needed from WYCA to retain the services that many local residents relied upon.

Councillor Paul Wadsworth (Guiseley and Rawdon Ward) said: “These bus services provide vital connections for people in my ward and other areas of North West Leeds. People want reliable, efficient buses that get them where they want to go, on time. But as a bare minimum, WYCA need to work with operators to ensure services actually continue to run and serve the communities that need them.

“It’s sad that as the Council proposes plans to create new ‘20 minute neighbourhoods’ existing communities, like those in the ward I represent, are at risk of being cut off from services and facilities they need because of worsening transport links. I am calling on WYCA to do everything it can to preserve these bus services.”

Councillor Paul Alderson (Guiseley and Rawdon Ward) said: “It is hugely concerning that there is now doubt over the future of these important bus services. Everyone understands the current financial climate, but if a suitable operator does not come forward to provide these services, WYCA should look at alternative options to ensure they can carry on.

“As Leeds continues to work towards its climate goals, we need to encourage greater use of local bus services and ensure there is investment in making them more reliable. As local councillors we want to see more consultation with local people about the future of bus services, and in the immediate term I hope that no decisions will be taken without proper engagement with the communities that are impacted.”