TIME is running out for Keighley people to have their say over the future of the region's bus networks.

A massive public consultation exercise launched three months ago comes to an end tomorrow (Oct 21).

Eighty drop-in sessions have been held – including several in Keighley – and nearly 5,000 responses received.

West Yorkshire Combined Authority, which organised the consultation, said it was delighted with the feedback.

"We fully understand the vital role bus services and transport play in underpinning our economy and achieving growth – which is why we were keen to hear the views of as many people as possible during the Your Travel Your Say consultation," said chairman Councillor Keith Wakefield.

"This included meetings with business and young people's groups and organisations representing disabled and older people to ensure their views were represented.

"We also produced braille and large print versions of the consultation materials.

"I'm delighted that we have had so many responses to the process and would like to thank our small consultation team for its efforts in attending all the drop-in events at venues across West Yorkshire and travelling nearly 2,000 miles doing so.

"I'd remind anyone who hasn't taken part that there's still time to do so before midnight on October 21."

The authority was particularly keen to hear from young people.

"Our local transport networks are vital for young people attending schools, colleges, universities and work," added Cllr Wakefield.

"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.

"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 help shape their transport system of the future."

Comments can be submitted at yourtravelyoursay.co.uk.

Paper copies of the consultation questionnaire and draft strategies are available from bus stations, but they must be returned to Freepost CONSULTATION TEAM (WYCA) by tomorrow.

Teams from the combined authority, bus operators – including Transdev Keighley – and district councils have been gathering people's views and answering questions.

Feedback from the consultation will be used to develop new 20-year transport strategies.

They will update the current West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan and support Leeds City Region's aims of expanding the economy and creating 35,700 jobs.