New chair appointed to lead major rail reforms

The UK’s rail system is set for a major transformation as Laura Shoaf, Chief Executive of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), has been appointed as Chair of Shadow Great British Railways (SGBR). Shoaf’s appointment marks a key step in the government’s plan to unify Britain’s railways and improve services for passengers and freight users.

Laura Shoaf, an experienced leader in transport, will spearhead the development of the new rail body, Great British Railways (GBR), which will eventually oversee railway infrastructure, services, and operations across the UK. Shoaf’s role at SGBR will focus on delivering improvements for passengers, integrating services, and driving forward vital reforms to end the fragmentation that has plagued the system for years.

Prior to this role, Shoaf led Transport for West Midlands, overseeing large-scale transport investments and leading recovery efforts for the transport sector post-COVID-19. Her hands-on experience and leadership in tackling challenges across the sector make her well-suited to shape the future of the UK’s rail network.

In her new position, Shoaf will work closely with Network Rail, the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Operator of Last Resort, and other industry leaders to establish a more integrated, customer-centric rail network. SGBR will lay the groundwork for Great British Railways, focusing on delivering seamless, efficient services for passengers and addressing the financial challenges facing the rail industry.

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh commented: “For too long, passengers have suffered from a fragmented rail system that doesn’t work in their interests. Laura Shoaf’s appointment is a significant step in delivering a unified railway with passengers at its heart. I’m confident her experience and leadership will be instrumental in driving forward the reforms we need to get Britain moving again.”

Shoaf herself acknowledged the transformative power of the railways, stating: “Transport plays a pivotal role in the UK’s growth, and it’s my privilege to chair Shadow Great British Railways. I’m committed to ensuring that people are at the heart of our rail network, driving improvements that benefit passengers, freight users, and taxpayers.”

With legislation for rail reform on the horizon, SGBR is already working to unify the oversight of track and train, ensuring no time is lost in delivering a better, more integrated railway system. This restructuring aims to streamline operations, eliminate inefficiencies, and create a future-focused rail network ready to meet the demands of modern Britain.

The government’s ambitious reforms are expected to bring long-lasting benefits to the rail industry and position it as a driver of national connectivity, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.

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