A new champion for London’s commuters has been appointed after playing a key role in improving services for train users in the east of England.
Brian Cooke was selected by the London Assembly to chair the London Transport Users Committee (LTUC). Mr Cooke will deal with passengers’ frustrations and tackle the operators of Tube, bus, railways and taxis to ensure they are making it better for people to travel around the capital. He succeeds Suzanne May, who has chaired LTUC since its inception in 2000.
The Assembly’s Transport Committee is responsible for LTUC’s appointments and keeps an eye on its work. Assembly Members involvement in this process ensures democratic oversight of the appointment of this key role in London.
LTUC responds to concerns raised by transport users. It also conducts independent research and produces publications on issues affecting transport users. The organisation assesses the impact and makes recommendations if proposals are made for the closure of a station or railway line.
Mr Cooke is a former member and vice chair of the Rail Passengers Committee for Eastern England. He played a pivotal role in improving station facilities in the area and in making the travelling experience more enjoyable for the region’s commuters. Mr Cooke has run his own travel business and has a background in travel industry affairs.
Brian Cooke said: “I am delighted to accept this appointment and I believe I can work for all Londoners to improve transport. LTUC has a successful record in getting things done and I am confident that I can lead the organisation to achieve even better facilities for rail, bus, Tube and road users in our capital.”
Lynne Featherstone AM, Chair of the Assembly Transport Committee, said: “We welcome Brian Cooke as chair of LTUC, which is a key London body that fights to ensure a fair deal for passengers. We look forward to working with him in our campaign for better services and to influence transport policy to improve the quality and experience of using public transport.”
