TfN appoints transport chair
Lord Patrick McLoughlin has been appointed as chair of the Transport for the North (TfN) partnership board and board.
McLoughlin has been in UK politics for more than 30 years and has served as a Member of Parliament for Derbyshire Dales between 1986 and 2019.
His experience in government includes two years as government chief whip from 2010 to 2012, two years as chairman of the Conservative Party and chancellor to the Duchy of Lancaster from 2016 to 2018 and four years as transport secretary between 2012 and 2016.
He will chair his first board meeting on Wednesday 23 February 2022.
McLoughlin said: “I believe firmly in the potential of the North of England and know from my personal experience and professional career just how vital reliable, cost-effective and sustainable transport is to people and business.
“A key focus for the TfN Board remains the need to press the case as to why its preferred approach to Northern Powerhouse Rail remains fundamental to securing the long-term economic future of the North. The government’s Integrated Rail Plan (IRP) goes against the best interest of people in the North and fails to deliver the step-change in rail services that is the only sustainable, long-term solution.”
Image credit | Transport for the North