PRESS RELEASE

Transport Action Network (TAN) is delighted to announce the appointment of Abby Coften as Chief Executive following the founder of TAN, Chris Todd’s retirement from his Director role after seven years.

Abby, an experienced Chief Executive, has over 10 years in strategic leadership roles in the not-for-profit sector including for environmental, health and education charities. Abby began her new role on 29th June.

Abby most recently led Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) Hertfordshire, as Chief Executive. Her extensive senior experience of national campaigning, MP engagement and her expertise in communications ideally equip her to take on the leadership of TAN at such a pivotal moment.

She has been at the forefront of challenging the Government on inappropriate planning applications on green spaces, particularly Green Belt. Her petition calling on the Government to review the definition of grey belt in the National Planning Policy Framework started as a local campaign that quickly attracted over 45,000 national signatures. Her work with the London Green Belt Council and their recent joint report to national media highlighted the devastating impact of the government’s introduction of grey belt and received considerable national attention.

Abby also led on a number of environmental initiatives to enhance our green spaces including working with Butterfly Conservation to plant over 2,500 meters of hedgerows to offset carbon and provide new wildlife corridors in Hertfordshire, particularly for endangered species.

Abby is a Trustee of Heads up Kids, a children’s mental health charity and CPRE Hertfordshire. A nature enthusiast and keen walker, Abby advocates for sustainable transport and enjoys supporting local communities in campaigning against damaging road schemes that impact our green spaces.

ENDS