NEARLY 4,000 people have so far taken part in a major consultation to shape the future of the region's bus networks.

Several drop-in sessions have been staged in Keighley – the latest at the bus station on Monday (Sept 19) – as part of the initiative.

Feedback from the consultation, which runs for about another month, will be used to develop new 20-year strategies.

Behind the venture is the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, in partnership with district councils and bus operators, including Keighley's Transdev.

Combined Authority chairman Councillor Keith Wakefield said the response had been excellent, but the consultation team was keen to hear from more young people.

He said: "Our local transport networks are vital for young people attending schools, colleges, universities and work.

"The authority has already extended half-fare travel to 16-to-18-year-olds to help them access jobs, training and apprenticeships, but we want their views on the transport system of tomorrow.

"We are carrying out meetings, workshops and engagements with youth bodies – including the West Yorkshire Young Persons Panel – but we are keen to hear from more young people across the region.

"They may feel that buses should be friendlier to the environment, trains should be longer with more seats, cycle routes should be better, roads less congested or that better use should be made of our rivers and canals.

"Whatever they think, we want them to visit yourtravelyourfuture.co.uk and help shape their transport system of the future."

People can also give their views at yourtravelyoursay.co.uk.