JOHN Grogan MP, Ilkley Town Council, Ilkley’s three district councillors and Ilkley Business Improvement District have joined forces to work towards the introduction of a new Ilkley Hoppa bus linking up with the station in the morning and evening peak times.

Until 2016 there was a bus service between Hebers Ghyll and Ilkley town centre, as well as a circular service in Ben Rhydding.

These services were integrated into the 962 Otley- Ilkley circular service, which does not begin until after 9am and is targeted primarily at shoppers.

Mr Grogan said: “Following a meeting with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority serious consideration is now being given to the introduction of a Hoppa bus service to connect Ilkley Station with various residential areas of Ilkley.

“This service would coincide with peak train times to and from Leeds and Bradford.

“Estimates suggest the bus would cost between £15,000 to £20,000 to run.

“Before seeking the funding the idea is to do an anonymous online survey to test whether there is a likely demand for the Hoppa Bus and from which areas of town.”

The survey can be accessed through the MP’s website at: www.johngroganmp.org.uk.

Letters to John Grogan MP would also be welcome.

They can be sent to: C/O Room 18, Cottage 6, 6 Castle Yard, Ilkley, LS29 9DT.

Ilkley Town Councillor Tom Franks said: “At the Town Council we are keen to increase the availability and use of public transport.

“This is a win-win for the whole town, reducing our carbon footprint, easing congestion in the town centre, and reducing the dependence on cars for individuals.

“We hope that residents will respond positively to this survey, and that it will be possible to introduce a commuter Hoppa service in the future.”

Councillor Kyle Green (Con, Ilkley) said: “I hope residents are able to show where demand for a new Ilkley bus service is by completing this survey.

“Should demand be found for this service, I hope that it can help reduce commuter parking in Ilkley and help create a more environmentally friendly and efficient way for people to travel in town and that funding for the service can be secured.”