July 2025 Newsletter
Centre of Excellence 2025/26 Work Plan approved by Partnership Board
The Centre of Excellence Work Plan for 2025/26 has been given the green light by the TfSE Partnership Board on 21 July. We’re thrilled to have formal approval and remain committed to co-designing the support with you, making sure what we deliver is genuinely helpful, timely, and relevant.
Coming up first in our Work Plan for this year:
Bus support: In September, we will share the results of a study that looked at Devolution and Bus Governance with the TfSE Regional Bus Forum. It covers franchising, enhanced partnerships, cross boundary infrastructure, and cross subsidy models – with a particular focus on how these align with Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation. Webinars will follow to dive deeper into the findings.
AI in transport planning: We’re commissioning expert-led virtual training sessions to help demystify AI in transport planning. You will hear real world examples of how it’s being used, what techniques are involved, and why it matters for local transport planning.
Modelling and forecasting: A team of experts will walk you through the latest tools and approaches to modelling, with an eye on business case development and improving analytical efficiency – especially relevant for authorities moving towards Mayoral Combined Authority status.
TfSE will also explore how we can provide hands on support to help you make the most of these tools, as well as the upcoming clinic where we will be showcasing best practice in our region.
EV Charging Webinars
We’re launching a series of webinars on EV charging, kicking off in September. This will be a rolling series, and we want your input to shape future sessions.
Pipeline Prioritisation and Financial Planning
A huge thank you to everyone who took part in our Pipeline Prioritisation and Financial Planning workshop on 9 July. It was great to hear how different authorities are tackling this challenge, and to surface areas where shared learning could improve efficiencies.
Barrier removal for non-highway schemes was highlighted as particularly tricky when it comes to political support and public engagement.
If you have any suggestions or feedback we would like to hear from you. Email us at coe@transportforthesoutheast.org.uk
Carbon assessment playbook workshops
We have now hosted two in our series of Carbon Assessment Playbook workshops, helping you understand the tool and apply it with confidence. The sessions are available to watch back here.
Beyond the Plan
While the Work Plan has been agreed, we know new challenges can emerge unexpectedly, and the Centre of Excellence has kept some budget unallocated so that we can support you. If there’s something outside of the agreed programme you need help with, please get in touch via coe@transportforthesoutheast.org.uk and the Chat Forum.