Neil Scales named as one of the most influential in public transport
Merseytravel chief executive Neil Scales has been named the 17th most influential person in UK public transport.
Could it be because Mr Scales, who runs Merseyside's transport authority, lives by the mantra of creating a "single integrated public transport system accessible to all"?
He was listed above the Sir Richard Branson, who owns Virgin Trains and appeared 21st in the list compiled by trade magazine New Transit.
Number one was Sir Moir Lockhead, chief executive of First Group followed by Brian Souter, co-founder and chief exec of Stagecoach.
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David Bartlett
City editor of the Post and Echo covering politics, regeneration, and urban affairs.
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Amazing stuff! Or should I say, amazing guff. 17th on the 'Power List', up from 35th last year. Ahead of Transport Minister, Sadiq Khan (35th); and ahead of chair of the Transport Select Committee, Louise Ellman (48th). This sort of thing could turn the head of a modest, self-effacing bloke like Neil Scales. But who has he 'influenced' this year? As far as I can tell, he seems to have influenced people to do exactly the opposite of what he's set out to achieve. My New Year's advice to Neil is therefore simple: if you want to be No. 1 on the 'Power List' for 2011, just carry on as you are. Just one small tweak though - get your name in the headlines a bit more. Think up some new schemes. Doesn't matter how bonkers or expensive. Here's an idea for free - should appeal to young Mums - the Mersey Pramway, a fully integrated system for getting infants a stroll in the fresh air via the local supermarket and the childminders. Or the Neil-i-port, a customised launch pad for one's personal helicopter. You don't like these? I have others - consult me.
Mr Scales, we are still waiting for the intergrated transport system and when are we going to get it?
In the meantime we have to put up with poorly run bus services and sky high bus fares.
Neil Scales managed to get us the Carbuncle Cup Award for the ferry terminal which now blots our waterfront. An abject lesson on "influence".
David Swift, is that the swifty formerly of the Champion Newspaper?
Dear Hilton Hotel - no.
Dear Hilton Hotel - no.