Leadership Change Ahead at Transport for the North as Lord McLoughlin Prepares to Step Down

Lord Patrick McLoughlin has announced he will step down as chair of Transport for the North (TfN) later this year, bringing an end to four years in the role. His final duty will be overseeing the TfN Board meeting in Darlington on 15 September.

Appointed in 2021, the former transport secretary has helped shape the organisation’s long-term priorities, guiding the adoption of its second Strategic Transport Plan. He also played a key part in uniting northern leaders against government proposals to close rail station ticket offices, a move eventually abandoned after widespread opposition.

Reflecting on his contribution, TfN chief executive Martin Tugwell said the chair’s experience and political insight had been invaluable:

“Lord McLoughlin’s leadership has strengthened the voice of the North in securing investment and developing a more reliable, future-ready transport system.”

The September meeting carries symbolic weight as it coincides with the bicentenary of the Stockton to Darlington railway, recognised as the world’s first passenger line. Leaders from across the North will gather to mark the milestone while also debating future investment priorities, freight strategy, and outcomes from the latest Spending Review.

TfN confirmed that details of the appointment process for a new chair will be released in the weeks ahead.