WYCA adds transport boss

A new appointment has been made to the senior team at the West Yorkshire Combined Authority following open recruitment.

Simon Warburton will join WYCA as executive director of transport in May, with the brief of overseeing activity across three transport directorates, in addition to making the case for bus franchising.

In his current role as director of strategy at transport for Greater Manchester, Warburton has led on government liaison throughout a time of intense dialogue over devolution deals and transport funding, including leading the Greater Manchester City Region sustainable transport settlement programme.

Last week, chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Budget included the announcement of a “trailblazer deeper devolution deal” for Greater Manchester, with tranpsort one of the key areas.

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “I’m thrilled that Simon will be joining our senior team. His extensive experience and understanding of the opportunities and challenges we face will be invaluable as we strive to cement a stronger future for our region.

“I look forward to working closely with him to deliver my vital pledges, which will benefit communities and businesses throughout West Yorkshire and beyond.”

Ben Still, chief executive of WYCA, added: “Simon’s expertise will be invaluable in driving forward the ambitions we have for growth and prosperity across the region.

“I’m delighted to welcome him to the team as we enter the next phase of our journey.”

Among WYCA’s ongoing tranpsort projects is the West Yorkshire Mass Transit Vision 2040, a project looking at how best to improve mass transit across West Yorkshire’s five districts. A consultation closed in January, with an outcome report expected soon.