Transport chiefs in the Bradford district have welcomed a £15 million rail growth programme for the region.

New stations at Kirkstall Forge and Apperley Bridge between Shipley and Leeds and almost 700 new park-and-ride spaces across the network, including 400 at the two new stations, are among measures contained in a package approved by the Yorkshire and Humber Assembly Regional Transport Board.

Metro chairman Wharfedale ward Councillor Chris Greaves, said: “New stations and more park-and-ride spaces will make the rail network more accessible and encourage more people to make business trips and commuter journeys by rail.”