Peninsula Transport, the sub-national transport body (STB) for Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay, has announced the appointments of three new staff members to aid delivery of its plans, which include support of coach and bus operations.
As well as boosting the permanent staffing level to drive forward its Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP), the body will appoint a placement year assistant.
Among England’s seven STBs, which are composed of representatives from local authorities, Peninsula Transport is noted as being particularly supportive of coach.
STBs are funded by the Department for Transport and local authorities.
Peninsula Transport’s SIP for 2025-2029, published in 2024, is focused on “enabling easier journeys, accelerating the shift towards going electric, creating a connected peninsula and completing the region’s transport network”. It sees its role as “influencer, facilitator and researcher”.
Its “Coach Action Plan” is targeted, among other things, at increasing the profile of coach, furthering the move towards zero-emissions in the sector, increasing local information for operators and making the area’s facilities more coach-friendly.
It also aims to improve bus services and integration between various modes of transport.
Councillor John Stephens, Peninsula Transport Chair, says: “We’re delighted to welcome these talented individuals to the team at such a pivotal moment for transport in the South West, as we move into turning our vision into reality.
“Their expertise will be instrumental in delivering the Strategic Implementation Plan and shaping a more connected, sustainable future for our region. These appointments strengthen our capacity to advise ministers, engage stakeholders, and ensure the peninsula gets the transport investment it needs.”
Included in the appointments are two new Project Managers in Hattie James and Ross Pascoe.
Ms James previously worked on transport projects at Western Gateway STB, while Mr Pascoe spent 11 years as Associate Transport Planner with WSP.
Lauren Hutton, the STB’s new Programme/Project Support Officer, brings with her experience from her role as Development Management Planning Officer at South Hams District Council.
Meanwhile, placement assistant Oscar Mansell is studying geography at University of Plymouth.
