In a move to ensure new residential and commercial building projects are linked with bus services, Go-Ahead Group has appointed Dr Nick Small as Head of Built Environment and Infrastructure, fortifying a development blueprint for the Oxford Bus Group and Go South Coast.
The appointment positions Nick to collaborate with developers, house builders, urban designers, highway engineers and town and transport planners in shaping bus-friendly street designs and infrastructure.
Nick, who previously made his mark working for Stagecoach, brings a career that spans the planning, development and transport industries.
“I’m proud to be joining a modern, forward-thinking bus group that understands the need for partnership with developers,” he says, voicing concerns over the historic disconnect between bus companies and local developers. “I’m confident that my expertise will help bridge this gap,” he adds, expressing an ambition to ensure the next round of growth is sustainable, low-carbon, and synergised with local transport infrastructure.
Welcoming the appointment, Oxford Bus Group Managing Director Luke Marion says: “This is a significant appointment and we’re pleased to welcome Nick on-board. Bus services are a crucial part of delivering sustainable growth and so it is important we develop positive dialogue with key stakeholders at the early stage of the planning process on new-build developments.”
Andrew Wickham, Managing Director at Go South Coast, adds: “Nick brings a wealth of experience in this field, and I’m pleased to welcome him to our team.
“Creating new communities is about more than just the houses people will live in. There are many other vital local services to consider – including a comprehensive bus network. Nick will build strong relationships with developers and local authorities to ensure public transport is an important consideration right at the start of each new project within our region.”
