Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority have appointed Peter Cushing as a new Light Rail Commissioner as part of their ambitions for better connectivity and to get the region moving again. The appointment doesn’t mean that any light rail vehicles will be running any time soon but shows some ambition to look at improving public transport in the region.
As well as the appointment of Peter Cushing, they have also appointment Leon Daniels OBE as an independent chair of the review into bus franchise implementation. Both will play pivotal roles in advancing the Combined Authority’s work to develop modern, efficient, and sustainable public transport which improves lives, protects the environment and supports and unlocks economic growth.
Peter will be advising the Mayor on all aspects of assessing, planning, and potentially delivering a light rail network for Greater Cambridge. He will provide oversight, constructive challenge, and expert input into the viability of proposals, the development of business cases, and the integration of light rail within the wider transport system.
Peter Cushing has 25 years experience in the rail and light rail sectors. Appointed as Midland Metro Alliance Director in February 2020, he has led the team of planning, design and construction specialists to build the latest extensions to the West Midlands Metro network. He has previously been CEO of the LRSSB and was Metrolink Director at TfGM for five years.
Peter commented: “I’m excited to be supporting the Mayor and Combined Authority at such a pivotal time for the region and the country. A long-term, multi-modal, transport solution for Greater Cambridge to match the ambition for economic growth is now urgently needed.”
Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, added: “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. I want this region to be the country’s fastest growing local economy. To do that, we need to show ambition. I’m 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.”