WEST Yorkshire Combined Authority is one of 12 UK authorities shortlisted to become international beacons of ultra-low emission vehicle use.

The successful bidders for a share of the £35 million fund, to become centres of excellence for low emission vehicles, were announced by Transport Minister Baroness Kramer and Business Minister Matt Hancock yesterday.

The funding was announced alongside an additional £30 million to help local authorities and bus operators replace existing vehicles with greener alternatives to help clean up urban air quality.

Baroness Kramer (pictured) said: “Today’s shortlist of 12 Go Ultra Low cities from across the country is an important part of our effort to improve air quality and establish the UK as a global leader in the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles. The additional £30 million investment in low emission buses is also a fantastic opportunity for local authorities who want innovative, cost efficient public transport.”