‘On behalf of the council and the city, we’d like to congratulate Louise on being recognised for the incredible work she has done’
From left, Kerry Turner, Women in Bus and Coach director, Councillor Mark Ieronimo, Hull City Council, Louise Cheeseman OBE and Martin Dean, managing director, UK regional bus division, The Go-Ahead Group(Image: Women in Bus and Coach)
Women in Bus and Coach (WiBC) has unveiled a commemorative blue plaque in honour of its founder and transport industry leader Louise Cheeseman OBE at Hull Paragon Interchange. The plaque recognises Louise’s outstanding contribution to the UK’s transport sector and celebrates a career that has seen her become one of the industry’s most respected and influential leaders.
As the founder of WiBC, Louise has also played a pivotal role in supporting, inspiring and championing women across the bus, coach and community transport sector. Hull Paragon Interchange was chosen as the location for the plaque due to Louise’s strong connection to both the city and the transport industry.
Born in Hull, and still living locally, Louise served as managing director of Hull Trains before becoming director of buses at Transport for London, where she helped shape one of the world’s largest urban bus networks. The unveiling ceremony was attended by representatives from WiBC, transport industry colleagues, local dignitaries, family members and invited guests who gathered to celebrate Louise’s achievements and lasting impact on the sector.
Laura Hadzik, chair of WiBC, said: “Louise’s career has been defined by exceptional leadership, innovation and a commitment to improving transport for passengers and communities. From her early career in Hull to leading major organisations on the national stage, she has consistently broken new ground and inspired others to follow in her footsteps.
“We were delighted to unveil this blue plaque at Hull Paragon Interchange, a location that reflects both Louise’s personal connection to the city and her significant contribution to rail and bus transport. It is a fitting tribute to a woman who has achieved so much and who continues to be an inspiration to people across our industry.”
Andy Lord, Transport for London’s commissioner, said: “Louise played a key role during her time at TfL leading London’s bus operations and in particular by founding Women in Bus and Coach. This recognition of a blue plaque in her home town is thoroughly deserved and reflects the difference she has made – not just through her leadership, but in how she has supported and inspired others across the sector – even after leaving her role at TfL Congratulations, Louise.”
Stuart Jones, managing director, First Rail Open Access, said “Louise was instrumental in leading Hull Trains up to and throughout Covid pandemic. She oversaw the introduction of our modern Paragon fleet of trains, as well as leading initiatives encouraging more women to consider the rail industry as a career.
“We’re delighted that she is being recognised with this plaque, another great accolade noting her recent OBE award.” Councillor Mark Ieronimo, Hull City Council cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure, said: “On behalf of the council and the city, we’d like to congratulate Louise on being recognised for the incredible work she has done, and continues to do, in shaping public transport, both locally and nationally, and for championing the work of women in this vitally important sector.”
Nicola Buckley, people director at TransPennine Express, said: “We are proud to host this blue plaque at Paragon Station in recognition of Louise Cheeseman’s outstanding contribution to the bus and coach sector. Her dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact on the industry, and it is fitting that her achievements are celebrated here.
“We are delighted to support this tribute and to welcome colleagues and partners for the unveiling.” Speaking at the unveiling, Louise thanked WiBC for the recognition and reflected on her journey from Hull to some of the most senior leadership positions in UK transport.
The plaque forms part of WiBC’s blue plaque programme, which celebrates women who have made an exceptional contribution to the bus, coach and wider transport sectors while helping to inspire future generations of transport professionals.
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