Member Article

Urban Transport Group membership extended to Tees Valley Combined Authority

Tees Valley Combined Authority is continuing to forge a strong reputation in the region and beyond, becoming an Associate Member of the Urban Transport Group (UTG).

An organisation which promotes the interests of Britain’s largest urban areas on transport, the UTG is a leading influencer when it comes to British transport issues.

Cllr Bill Dixon, chair of the Tees Valley Combined Authority’s Transport Committee, explained the significance of the membership for the region.

“As a Combined Authority with formal transport responsibilities, there are significant benefits in joining the Urban Transport Group”, he said.

“Our membership will ensure that we have a seat on the top table of influence on transport issues.

“We can also tap into a strong pool of expertise and experience as we face the challenge of improving transport services in our area.

“Working in partnership and sharing knowledge and expertise, we will help deliver our ambitious plans for better transport links across the Tees Valley.”

Traditionally membership of the UTG has been made up of the large Passenger Transport Executives and Integrated Transport Authorities but the organisation is now extending membership to Combined Authority areas.

Tobyn Hughes chair of the Urban Transport Group, added: “I’m very pleased that the Tees Valley Combined Authority has now joined us as an associate member.

“Tees Valley has much to offer that we can learn from – for example on freight, given the rapid expansion of Teesport and the strengths of the local industrial economy.

“This is a time of rapid change for urban transport authorities, from responding to technological transformation through to the devolution of more powers, and all at a time when funding is tight. It makes sense therefore for transport authorities to work together to tackle these challenges collectively where we can.

“We are therefore delighted that the Tees Valley Combined Authority will be doing just that, and in the process further strengthening the effectiveness of our network.’