Mayor Sadiq Khan announces key appointments | West London Business

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, yesterday announced key senior appointments to his top team, including deputy mayors for policing, transport and housing. The five new senior advisors will drive forward the Mayor’s pledges to make the capital a safer city, with a world-class transport network and affordable housing leading to shared prosperity for all Londoners.

Transport

Val Shawcross CBE has been announced as Deputy Mayor for Transport and Deputy Chair of Transport for London, subject to confirmation by the London Assembly. Shawcross has extensive experience of all issues relating to London’s transport, having served as a London Assembly member for 16 years, including eight years as chair and deputy chair of the London Assembly transport committee.

In addition, the Mayor has proposed the appointment of Lord Andrew Adonis as Chair of the Crossrail 2 Board. Lord Adonis brings a wealth of experience delivering major London and national transport projects.

Policing and fire

Sophie Linden has been put forward as Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime. Linden is former government special adviser to Lord David Blunkett at the Home Office. She is currently Deputy Mayor of Hackney Council, a role she will relinquish, subject to appointment.

Sadiq Khan is also set to appoint Fiona Twycross as Chair, London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority (LFEPA). Twycross has been a Labour London-wide Assembly Member since 2012 and has sat on the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority since 2012, holding the position of Vice Chair since July 2013.

Housing

James Murray, lead councillor for housing and development at Islington council, is being appointed as Deputy Mayor for Housing. Murray will stand down as an Islington councillor, a role he has held since being first elected in 2006, to take up the new post.

Speaking of the appointments, The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said:

“I’m delighted to announce these key appointments to my top team that brings together people with extensive experience and knowledge to help me deliver my manifesto for all Londoners.”

With reference to the Crossrail 2 appointment of Lord Adonis, Khan said:

“As London grows, it is imperative that we plan now for the transport infrastructure London needs for the long-term. So I am delighted to announce my proposal to appoint Andrew Adonis as Chair of Crossrail 2. He will bring vital experience to help ensure Crossrail 2 gets off the ground and is delivered as quickly as possible.”