CCA’s new transport chief will drive forward £700m investment budget

The new Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA) has appointed its first director of transport – a key role in its leadership team as it moves into delivery mode.

Karen Cassar joins the LCCA from Lincolnshire County Council, where she held a number of senior leadership positions and developed an extensive track record in delivering transport, highways and place-based services.

Announcing the appointment, the LCCA say she brings “significant experience” in strategic transport planning, partnership working, infrastructure delivery and organisational leadership.

As director of transport, Karen will lead the development and delivery of Lancashire's strategic transport agenda, helping to ensure that investment in infrastructure and public transport supports economic growth, strengthens communities and improves connections across the county and beyond.

In a statement announcing Karen’s arrival, the LCCA said: “The appointment comes at a pivotal time for Lancashire.

“Through its growth plan, the county has identified a pipeline of more than £20bn of potential investment opportunities and a long-term ambition to become a nationally recognised centre for innovation, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital technology and economic resilience.

“The growth plan places transport connectivity at the heart of delivering sustainable growth and creating opportunities for people and businesses across Lancashire.”

It added: “With the Lancashire Combined County Authority moving from establishment into delivery, Karen’s appointment strengthens the organisation's leadership team and its ability to deliver its ambitions and secure a prosperous future for Lancashire.”

Councillor Phil Riley, who chairs the Lancashire Combined County Authority’s Transport Advisory Board, said: “Karen is our first director of transport and we are investing in building a strong professional team, which is already responsible for nearly £700m in transport investment over the coming years.

"The appointment of Karen will be one of many new additions, as we building the capacity and capability of the LCCA to drive forward and deliver the major transport developments that Lancashire needs.”

For Karen, the appointment also represents a homecoming. She said: “I am incredibly proud to have joined the Lancashire Combined County Authority and to be returning to my home county in this important leadership role.

“Working alongside local authorities, government, businesses and partners, I look forward to helping deliver an integrated, sustainable and efficient transport network that supports Lancashire's ambitions and enhances quality of life for residents.

“Lancashire has always been a place of innovation, industry and opportunity. I feel both privileged and energised to play a part in helping the county realise its full potential.”