The Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA) has appointed Karen Cassar as its new Director of Transport.
Karen joins from Lincolnshire County Council, where she held several senior leadership roles and gained extensive experience across transport, highways and place-based services.
With a strong background in strategic transport planning, infrastructure delivery, partnership working and organisational leadership, Karen will play a key role in shaping Lancashire’s future transport network. The appointment also sees her return to her home county.
Karen 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.”
Councillor Phil Riley, Chair of the LCCA’s Transport Advisory Board, said the appointment was an important step in building the professional team needed to deliver Lancashire’s transport ambitions.
The LCCA is already responsible for almost £700 million of transport investment over the coming years, with further appointments expected as the organisation continues to build its capacity and capability.
Karen’s appointment comes at a significant time for Lancashire. The county’s Growth Plan identifies a pipeline of more than £20 billion in potential investment opportunities, alongside ambitions to become a nationally recognised centre for innovation, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital technology and economic resilience.
Improving transport connectivity is at the heart of these ambitions, with investment in infrastructure and public transport vital to supporting economic growth, strengthening communities and improving connections across the county and beyond.
As Director of Transport, Karen will lead Lancashire’s strategic transport agenda and help oversee the development and delivery of major transport projects, ensuring infrastructure investment supports the county’s wider economic ambitions.
Downtown in Business welcomes Karen’s appointment and the continued focus on strengthening Lancashire’s transport infrastructure. As a business network with a strong presence across the North West, DIB regularly brings together business leaders, political figures and key stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the region. Improved connectivity and infrastructure remain central to supporting economic growth, investment and regeneration across Lancashire and the wider North West.
As the LCCA moves from establishment into delivery, the appointment strengthens its leadership team and its ability to deliver the transport improvements needed to support Lancashire’s future growth and prosperity.
