One of the nation's leading voices for sustainable transport, John Dales, has been appointed chair of Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking.
Mr Dales has 40 years of experience as a transport planner, traffic engineer and urban designer, with a focus on enabling active and sustainable travel.
Having served as a trustee of Living Streets from 2011-2018, he will take up the new role from the current chair, Dame Jane Roberts, when her term ends on 31 March 2026.
John Dales, chair-elect of Living Streets, posted on social media: 'I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to getting stuck in to this role. Walking (with wheeling at around walking pace) is the Cinderella mode of transport. Theoretically at the top of the hierarchy, but in practice so often overlooked, neglected or ignored: hidden in plain sight. Walking's value to all is huge and its potential to address issues ranging from public health through environmental quality to transport efficiency is vast.
'My first points of focus as chair will be shaping our new strategy and building the community for change needed to ensure that the full potential of walking as a contributor to stronger communities, healthier lives, safer neighbourhoods, and better places is released. If you are or want to be part of this community for change, please get in touch and, if you haven't done so already, do of course join Living Streets.'
Since becoming chair in December 2018, Dame Jane Roberts has steered the charity through significant periods of adversity, including the UK lockdowns and funding changes, and has overseen campaign successes, including a pavement parking ban introduced in Scotland and 20mph rolled out as the default speed limit for residential areas in Wales.
Dame Jane Roberts, chair of Living Streets, said: 'Living Streets was celebrating its 90th anniversary in my first year as Chair. As the time for me to step down approaches, with the charity's 100th anniversary now on the horizon, I have the opportunity to reflect on all that's been achieved in this time.
'We have not been without challenge, but thanks to the spirit, support and strength of the Board and staff, more people are enjoying the rich benefits that come from walking and wheeling on safe, accessible streets. John Dales will be superb as Chair with his deep knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for walking as a mode of transport.'
Catherine Woodhead, chief executive of Living Streets, said: 'John's experience and vast knowledge combined with his passion for Living Streets puts us in safe hands as we embark on a new strategy and approach our centenary.
'I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dame Jane Roberts. Jane has generously dedicated her time, skills and expertise for over seven years, championing our cause at events across the nation – come rain or shine. Her unwavering commitment has shaped us into the resilient charity we are now and left us well-equipped for the future. We look forward to continuing to work – and walk – with Jane when she joins our alumni of former Trustees.'
Dame Roberts last appearance as chair of Living Streets will be at their UK Walking Summit in Liverpool on 25 March.
