Women in Bus and Coach (WiBC) has unveiled a commemorative blue plaque in honour of its founder and transport industry leader Louise Cheeseman OBE (pictured, second right) 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.
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 Women in Bus and Coach, 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 hometown 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.”
Nicola Buckley, People Director at TransPennine Express added:
“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 Women in Bus and Coach 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 Women in Bus and Coach’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.
(Picture: Left to Right – 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 GroupWomen In Bus & Coach)
