Leon Daniels will lead an independent review of the implementation of bus franchising by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA). It will assess and propose viable pathways for rollout of bus reregulation in the area.
Mr Daniels will serve as independent chair of that work. It was introduced soon after the election of Paul Bristow as Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Mr Bristow succeeded Dr Nik Johnson, who in February made the original decision to franchise bus services in the region.
There is no suggestion that the independent review will see abandonment of franchising, but Mr Bristow said earlier this year that the review will be part of the development of a clear and deliverable plan for introduction, also highlighting affordability.
At the time the review was announced, it was expected to last for three months and report in the autumn. Within scope are fleet and depot strategy, network design, and the revenue model.
Mr Daniels brings huge global experience to the process. He is what CPCA terms “one of the UK’s foremost public transport leaders” and has a distinguished record in that field which included a time as Managing Director of Surface Transport at Transport for London.
“His expertise will support the Combined Authority [to] find the best way to put franchising in place – a key step towards a simpler, more reliable and more affordable bus network for residents,” CPCA says. Also appointed by the authority is Peter Cushing as Light Rail Commissioner.
Mr Daniels notes how CPCA has “an ambitious agenda to transform bus transport to support growth and a sustainable and prosperous future for everyone,” adding that he is “very pleased” to lend his expertise to helping to assess how that is best achieved.
Mr Bristow has welcomed Mr Daniels and Mr Bristow. “To finally deliver the modern, joined-up transport system this region needs, we need the right people. Peter and Leon bring exceptional expertise and a cast iron track record of delivery,” he says.
“I want this region to be the country’s fastest growing local economy. To do that, we need to show ambition. I am serious about delivering light rail and bringing in a bus franchising system that is affordable and works for passengers. These appointments will help us get there.”
