The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority has confirmed three senior advisory appointments to help deliver Mayor Paul Bristow’s pledge to “get the region moving” and unlock regeneration opportunities across the area.
Two nationally recognised transport leaders, Peter Cushing and Leon Daniels OBE, will provide specialist expertise to strengthen the Combined Authority’s work on developing a modern, efficient and sustainable public transport system. Alongside them, former Peterborough City Council leader Cllr Wayne Fitzgerald has been appointed Planning Commissioner, tasked with helping shape a bold new vision for Peterborough city centre.
Peter Cushing has been named Light Rail Commissioner. With more than 25 years’ experience in rail and light rail both in the UK and internationally, Peter has led major projects on behalf of both the public and private sectors. He directed the Midland Metro Alliance, overseeing three tram extensions for the West Midlands Combined Authority, and previously served as CEO of the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board and as Metrolink Director at Transport for Greater Manchester.
In his new role, Peter will advise the Mayor on assessing, planning and potentially delivering a light rail system for Greater Cambridge. His remit includes reviewing viability, scrutinising business cases, and ensuring that light rail proposals align with the wider transport strategy. “A long-term, multi-modal transport solution for Greater Cambridge to match the ambition for economic growth is now urgently needed,” Peter said.
Leon Daniels OBE has been appointed Independent Chair of the Review into Bus Franchising Implementation. Widely regarded as one of the UK’s foremost transport leaders, Leon was Managing Director of Surface Transport at Transport for London, responsible for a £3.5bn budget and for delivering transport operations during the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Leon will oversee the franchising review process on behalf of the Mayor, guiding consultants, engaging with operators and scrutinising recommendations to ensure the final outcome is practical and effective. “The Combined Authority has an ambitious agenda to transform bus transport to support growth and a sustainable and prosperous future for everyone,” he said.
Meanwhile, Cllr Wayne Fitzgerald has been appointed Planning Commissioner, advising the Mayor on regeneration opportunities in Peterborough city centre. As former council leader, he brings deep local knowledge and connections with key stakeholders. His role will focus on identifying redevelopment opportunities, engaging with businesses, landowners and community groups, and helping to shape a development strategy for the city.
The timing of his appointment coincides with expected new mayoral planning powers under national devolution legislation, including potential “call-in” rights for major schemes and the ability to issue Mayoral Development Orders. Cllr Fitzgerald highlighted the importance of joined-up thinking on projects such as the Community Stadium pledge, stalled regeneration sites and the city’s evolving sports and leisure infrastructure.
Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Paul Bristow, said: “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.”
