Transport for the North’s Board are holding a meeting in Darlington today, and it will be last to be chaired by Lord McLoughlin, who is standing down this autumn after more than four years.
As Chair, Lord McLoughlin has worked with the North’s political leaders to agree its second Strategic Transport Plan to unlock sustainable, inclusive growth through better connectivity. He led the TfN Board as it opposed plans to close rail station ticket offices at stations, a proposal ultimately dropped by the government. And has been a strong advocate for greater rail infrastructure and services investment to give the North’s communities and businesses the transport system they need.
Martin Tugwell, Chief Executive of Transport for the North, said “I know political leaders and partners from across the North will join me in thanking Lord McLoughlin for his service to the Board.”
“His insight and experience, including as a former Transport Secretary, has helped guide our Board and the TfN team over the last few years in working together to secure investment in the North’s transport system.”
The Board is gathering in Darlington to mark the 200th anniversary of the world’s first passenger rail services. This is a historic moment when the railway age began in 1825 with the inception of the Stockton to Darlington railway.
Mayors and council leaders from across the North will gather to discuss regional growth, Spending Review outcomes, freight priorities, and the latest from the Rail North Committee.
Arrangements for Lord McLoughlin’s successor will be announced in the coming weeks.
Image credit: Transport for the North & iStock
