Lord Peter Hendy, Minister of State for Rail, gave a rare video address to Velociti Solutions’ user group event, ConnectTransport 2025, opening the day’s discussions on the future of UK buses and rail.
He highlighted government investments, including over £1 billion in bus services, the £3 fare cap, and plans for a unified, passenger-focused rail system under Great British Railways.
Calling our user group event “vital” for uniting the people who keep the transport system moving and shaping its future, Lord Hendy highlighted the role of technology and integration. We’re proud to deliver the software and connected systems making that possible.
More than 100 transport industry leaders from across the bus and rail sectors attended ConnectTransport 2025 for a day of knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Discussions throughout the day reinforced the importance of collaboration, data-driven solutions and innovative thinking in building smarter, more efficient transport networks.
Other speakers also contributed valuable insights throughout the day. Passenger transport expert Chris Cheek drew on more than 50 years in bus and rail to unpack the biggest challenges and opportunities shaping passenger transport. He shared real-world insights from advising governments, leading major franchise bids and writing extensively on the future of mobility.
From Transport for Wales, Teleri James Evans, Customer Information Strategy Manager, and Nick Watts, Control Centre Manager, explained how they are driving a customer-first revolution in passenger experience, leading rail projects that boost reliability, accessibility and real-time information.
In another session, Ed Cameron, Director at Whippet, delivered an inspiring presentation on how the company has transformed operational performance and efficiency using our Depot Allocation solution, streamlined duty allocation and enhanced driver management.
Additionally, Jack Wood, Operational Capability Delivery Manager at Network Rail, highlighted how RailSmart data insights are being used to drive improvements in rail safety and competence. Meanwhile, Greater Anglia’s Neil Atkin, Customer Experience Director, and Evie Zelinger, Customer Experience Business Partner, shared their journey transforming passenger communications through DRM, taking attendees from their starting point to future plans.
