John Dales has been appointed Chair of Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking.

Mr Dales brings 40 years’ experience as a transport planner, traffic engineer and urban designer working to enable people to travel more sustainably. From 2011 – 2018, John was a trustee of Living Streets and has remained a strong supporter and advocate for the charity since.

He will take up the role from current Chair, Dame Jane Roberts, when her term ends on 31 March 2026.

John Dales, Chair-Elect, Living Streets said:

“As someone whose working life is committed to making it easier for people to walk and wheel more, the mission of Living Streets has always been close to my heart. I am hugely excited at now having the privilege
of leading the charity as it continues to undertake and expand its vital work.”

Dame Jane Roberts has steered the charity through significant periods of adversity, including the UK lockdowns and changes to funding. Since becoming Chair in December 2018, she has overseen several campaign successes, including a pavement parking ban introduced in Scotland, 20mph rolled out as the default speed limit for residential areas in Wales, and most recently, the first road safety strategy from UK
Government in ten years.

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.”

(Picture: Living Streets)