Influential industry chief calls for long term transport thinking

Influential industrialist Juergen Maier has completed a major report into Britain’s future transport policy needs and called for a more connected, affordable, and high-capacity transport network.

Juergen Maier

His report, The Rail and Urban Transport Review was launched in Bradford alongside Transport Secretary Louise Haig, and Metro Mayors Tracy Brabin and Andy Burnham.

The chair of GB Energy and former Siemens UK chief executive said: “This is a pivotal moment for the UK’s transport sector. We have a unique opportunity to reshape our transport infrastructure to be greener, more inclusive, and future-ready. 

“Until now, the significant chop and change approach to transport policy has created significant ambiguity in the sector, raised costs, and held back investment. 

“The report recommendations provide a clear roadmap for this new government to seize this moment and drive significant economic, social, and environmental benefits in partnership with the private sector.”

He added: “Many thanks to Louise Haigh for the opportunity to lead this piece of work and to Tracy and Andy for being so supportive of transport across our regions. Very hopeful the review will help drive more ambitious and exciting times ahead for UK transport.”

Louise Haigh MP, said: “14 years of Conservative government left the public sick and tired of broken promises on transport infrastructure.

“This independent expert-led review provides a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities we face in delivering transport infrastructure in Britain, and will help inform this new Government’s thinking.

“We are clear that we will deliver value for the taxpayer while turbocharging delivery of transport projects. That’s how you grow the economy in every corner of the country, and deliver the transport network that modern Britain needs.”

Jason Prince

Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, which provided the secretariat for the research report, said: “Good urban transport plays a vital part in creating a stronger, greener, and fairer economy.

“This Review – which received more than 100 evidence submissions – and its final recommendations, are testament to the collective will and ambition of the sector to deliver better transport services for passengers on our railways and in our urban areas.

“We look forward to working with Government to realise our shared ambitions.”

The five key themes included: long-term planning; an acceleration in delivery of infrastructure; more public-private financing partnerships; getting Mayors involved in strategic planning; and creating a voice of transport users and workforce in future transport plans, including unions.

The independent Rail and Urban Transport Review was established in December 2023 by the Labour Party while in opposition. The Review is led by Juergen Maier CBE, former Siemens CEO, with Secretariat support from the Urban Transport Group and expertise from Arup.