The chief executive of the independent watchdog Transport Focus Anthony Smith is leaving after 25 years.

Transport Focus was created by the 1947 Transport Act, when it was known as the Central Transport Consultative Committee. At privatisation it became the Rail Users’ Consultative Committee, and then Passenger Focus in 2006.  Its responsibilities were widened in 2014 to cover road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, and it then gained its current title. It had also begun to represent bus and tram passengers outside London in 2008.

Anthony Smith has seen the last quarter century of these developments. He said: ‘This has been a very personal decision but it is time the organisation had some fresh leadership. I’m proud to have been part of the evolution and development of Transport Focus, working with the fantastic team here to make sure transport users’ voice is kept at the heart of decision-making.’

Transport Focus chair Nigel Stevens added: ‘Anthony has dedicated almost 25 years to representing transport users. Transport Focus has become a trusted voice on their behalf, advocating in their interest and holding transport operators to account. The Board and colleagues are grateful for the commitment, leadership and passion Anthony has provided through a period of great change. He will leave Transport Focus in a strong position to face the challenges ahead.’