The Chartered Institute of Logistic and Transport

As devolved powers expand across England through Mayoral Combined Authorities (MCAs), there is growing concern that rural communities risk being left in the dark about how transport decisions will affect their daily lives, local economies and long-term prosperity.

Anna-jane Hunter, Chair of the Board, said: "Helen has demonstrated clear leadership, strong delivery and a deep understanding of CILT's role as the professional body for logistics, transport and supply chain.

The proposed pedestrianisation of Oxford Street West represents one of the most significant changes to London's transport and public realm in a generation. The London Region Committee has responded to Transport for London's consultation to support the ambition of a more people-focused street, while setting out the practical considerations required to ensure the scheme succeeds operationally as well as aesthetically. Oxford Street has always been more than a shopping destination.

We were saddened to hear of the death of Reg Harman, who passed away shortly before Christmas, aged 82. Reg was a former Director of Policy at the Chartered Institute of Transport (CIT) during the 1990s and remained actively involved in the Institute's work for many years. A transport planner by profession, he worked with organisations including Hertfordshire County Council and SERPLAN, with a particular focus on public transport, land-use planning and integrated transport.

Are you 35 or under and shaping the future of logistics, transport and supply chain? We want to hear from you for the 35 under 35 edition of CILT UK's Focus magazine! Focus is read by over 12,000 industry professionals and we're seeking fresh perspectives and thought leadership from the next generation. If you're pioneering technologies, driving sustainability, implementing innovative solutions or have insights to share, this is your chance to be featured.

We are pleased to announce that we are launching the new CILT(UK) website at the end of this month. This is a major step in modernising how we engage with members, partners and the wider profession. Why a new site is needed The previous platform no longer reflected the scale and ambition of CILT(UK). Members reported challenges finding essential services, content and tools. Outdated systems limited our ability to update content and integrate key services.

The government has published its first road safety strategy in over a decade, setting a target to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Britain's roads by 65% by 2035. The strategy includes consultations on lowering the drink-drive limit in England and Wales, introducing a minimum learning period of three to six months for learner drivers, and mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over 70. Approximately four people die on Britain's roads daily.

The government has published an update on its Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) programme and confirmed its intention to develop a new rail line between Birmingham and Manchester. The Treasury has clarified that this line will not be a reinstatement of the HS2 Phase 2b extension cancelled in 2023. Instead, the proposed Birmingham-Manchester route is planned to follow the completion of NPR as a separate long-term project.