The latest Maritime & Transport South Action Group (MTAG) meeting, chaired by Fran Collins, provided key updates on several regional initiatives. Attendees reviewed progress on ongoing projects including the upcoming Maritime & Transport Careers Day (20th November), the ‘Proud to be a Member’ campaign, and work experience and outreach activities that continue to seek member support.
A central theme of the meeting was regional devolution. Fran Collins led a discussion on the implications of the proposed Mayoral Combined County Authorities (MCCA) for maritime governance, particularly the current absence of maritime connectivity in the devolution documents. MTAG is preparing a formal response to help shape future policy and encourage investment in skills and infrastructure. Gavin Hall also provided an update on the collaborative “Vision Document” being developed by the Regenerate South Action Group, aimed at aligning regional priorities across transport, housing, skills, and energy for the incoming mayor.
Katie Bruce and Nicola Denbigh delivered an encouraging MTCP update, sharing that over 17,000 people have already been engaged through 50+ events this year. With resources like career cards distributed to 200+ schools and a major Careers Day planned for November, the programme continues to grow. Members were also invited to support or sponsor future events, including the Railway 200 Exhibition (December 2025) and British Science Festival (September 2026). The next MTAG meeting will be an in-person lunch on 20th August 2025 from 12:00–2:00 PM, venue to be confirmed.
