Val Shawcross to retire as deputy mayor for transport

Val Shawcross retire

Val Shawcross CBE is to step down as London’s deputy mayor for transport this summer, a position she has held since it was created in May 2016.

Ms Shawcross will retire in the summer having served as a London Assembly member for 16 years – including eight years as chair and deputy chair of the London Assembly transport committee.

Val Shawcross CBE said:

“It’s been a huge honour to work as deputy mayor for transport under Sadiq’s leadership, working with colleagues at the Greater London Authority and TfL to make our city a better and fairer place for every Londoner.

“Working as an assembly member and then deputy mayor, I hope I’ve played my part ensuring our city has a high-quality, affordable and accessible transport network that serves the needs of every Londoner, whatever their background.”

Sadiq Khan paid tribute to his outgoing deputy for her ‘exceptional service to Londoners’.

The mayor of London said:

“Val is hugely respected by politicians from all parties and her deep expertise on transport in London has made life better for millions of Londoners.”

Mr Khan has also announced that Heidi Alexander MP will succeed Ms Shawcross, subject to a confirmation hearing by the London Assembly.

A previous deputy mayor of Lewisham and member of London Councils’ Transport and Environment Committee, Ms Alexander has been MP for Lewisham East since 2010, and was shadow secretary for health between September 2015 and June 2016.

Sadiq Khan said:

“I’m delighted that Heidi Alexander has agreed to become our new deputy mayor for transport. Heidi knows this city inside-out, and her work both as Shadow Health Secretary and campaigning over the best Brexit deal has demonstrated the terrific job she will do as part of my team standing up for London.  

“Heidi is respected across the political divide as a parliamentarian and campaigner, and Londoners can be confident she will ensure we deliver our ambitious plans to transform London’s transport network over the coming years.”

Heidi Alexander MP said:

“I am really excited to be joining Sadiq and the team at City Hall. Val is going to be a hard act to follow but I can’t wait to get started.

“I know just how important it is we ensure everyone has access to a high-quality and affordable public transport network, with safe cycling routes across the Capital.”


23 May 2018