LRSSB praised by retiring Director of Railway Safety

15 Jul 2024

The outgoing Director of Railway Safety at the Office of Rail and Road has praised the work of the LRSSB during a high-profile transport event.

In a video presentation to delegates at the recent Rail Safety Week conference in Manchester, HM Chief Inspector of Railways Ian Prosser highlighted the formation of the organisation as part of the progress towards a safer sector during his 16 years at the ORR.

“I am really pleased with the progress made by the LRRSB over the last few years since we helped to set it up,” he said. “I think it has been a really big success so far and looks good for the future.”

Ian was speaking shortly before his retirement at the end of last month, with Richard Hines, a former Deputy Chief Inspector, taking over his role on July 1.

Richard becomes the 26th HM Chief Inspector of Railways in the Inspectorate’s 183-year history, and LRSSB Chief Executive Carl Williams has said he’s looking forward to working with him in his new role.

“Since it was founded, the LRSSB has worked hand-in-hand with the ORR to drive further enhancements to light rail safety, and we have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with both Ian and Richard over many years,” Carl explained.

“While offering our congratulations to Richard on his appointment, we would also like to offer our best wishes to Ian on his retirement following a distinguished career with the ORR,” he added.

The event in Manchester also included a presentation by the LRSSB team on the evolution of LRSSB’s safety risk management framework, which has since received positive feedback from colleagues across the rail industry.