Our Team
Our Team
Nigel Blackler - Lead Officer
I have been the Lead Officer for Peninsula Transport since its inception in 2019. Prior to that, I worked for Cornwall Council for more than 15 years, ultimately serving as the Head of Transportation, Waste and Environment. I was awarded an OBE in 2016, and in 2018 I was honoured for my outstanding contribution to local transport at the National Transport Awards.
My role focuses on leading and providing direction for Peninsula Transport, as well as collaborating with the leads of the other six STBs to present a unified voice and approach to transport infrastructure challenges.
Ewan Wilson - Technical Director
I joined Peninsula Transport as Technical Director in January 2024. Previously, I was Transport Policy Lead at Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council in Dorset where I worked since moving to Poole from Glasgow in 2017. I was also one of the Technical Leads at Western Gateway STB and was part of the programme team since 2020. Having worked in transport and sustainability in local authorities and regional transport partnerships since 2007, I’ve had a range of experiences from auditing newly installed bus shelters to producing active travel strategies. I graduated in Economics from University of Stirling and have an MSc in Economics from the University of Edinburgh.
My role is focussed on the technical work programme and I led on producing Peninsula Transport’s Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP) which sets out the key strategic projects that deliver the region’s strategy. I have led on a wide range of issues including freight, electric vehicle charging, as well as representing the STB on various national sub-groups and stakeholder groups on rail, strategic roads, decarbonisation, freight and EV.
Outside of work I enjoy adventures with my family, especially playing and watching many sports together with my two young, very energetic sons. I recently resigned from my duties as coach of my son’s Under 9s football team after four years, so now I like to relax through running, cycling, fishing, reading and I have been practising Aikido for nearly 20 years.
Hannah Shrimpton – Programme Director
I joined Peninsula Transport permanently in January 2024, having been seconded into the STB from WSP for 2 years previous to that. I have lived and worked in Devon since 2012 with a diverse experience of transport planning and policy across the southwest. Prior to that I was based in London working on a range of transport and development projects including Canary Wharf schemes, stadia developments and the London Olympics bid.
My role is to drive the work programme of the STB and ensure we are supporting and advocating for infrastructure investment across our region. I lead on a number of areas including Peninsula Rail Task Force, Rural Mobility, Public transport integration and stakeholder engagement.
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling as often as possible, running (sometimes), good food and being mum to two daughters.
Kim Hawes - Project Manager
I joined Peninsula Transport as a Project Manager in February 2024, bringing with me a background in public transport operations, transport planning and policy development from various roles at Somerset Council. I hold a degree in Geography and have a strong interest in how social systems shape and influence transport networks.
My current work programme covers a diverse range of projects, including electric vehicles, bus and integrated ticketing, coach, rail accessibility, evidence-base development and support across several other areas.
Outside of work, I can usually be found trying new activities such as kayaking and climbing or exploring the moors, woods and beaches of the South West.
Ross Pascoe, Project Manager
I joined Peninsula Transport as a Project Manager in September 2025, following 11 years as a Transport Planning Consultant with WSP. During that time, I worked on a wide range of projects for Local Authorities across the South West, focusing on the appraisal of transport schemes and the development of Major Scheme Business Cases for key infrastructure projects.
My interests in sustainability led me to specialise in transport decarbonisation, where I’ve taken the lead on developing Transport Decarbonisation Evidence Bases. This work has supported local authorities in setting and tackling ambitious Net Zero targets as part of their Local Transport Plans.
Outside of work, I’m a keen runner and spend much of my free time training along the coast paths near my home in Cornwall. When I’m not running locally, I’m often off in my campervan exploring more remote areas—usually running up a mountain somewhere.
Hattie James - Project Manager
I join the team having previously worked at Western Gateway STB, where I was involved in a range of regional transport projects, including rail, freight, electric vehicle initiatives, and rural mobility pilots.
Before that, I spent several years at a regional transport partnership in Scotland, gaining experience in transport planning and enjoying the opportunity to explore the Scottish Highlands and Islands. I’m looking forward to continuing my work on strategic transport projects across the South West, with a particular focus on rural mobility.
Lauren Hutton - Programme Support Officer
I joined Peninsula Transport in September 2025, bringing with me a solid background in Town Planning across the Southwest. In my role at Peninsula, I provide support across all work streams, helping to keep the organisation running smoothly and efficiently.
Prior to joining Peninsula, I worked in Development Management, where I gained hands-on experience in planning processes and housing developments. I hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Planning and a BSc in Environmental Management and Sustainability from Plymouth University.
Outside of work, I love exploring the beautiful Southwest with my husband and children (usually with a good café nearby).
Oscar Mansell, Placement Assistant
I joined Peninsula Transport in September 2025 as part of a placement year whilst studying geography at the University of Plymouth. My course began in 2023, and I have primarily been focused on transport and town planning. I hope to use the skills and experience gained from my time at Peninsula to develop a career in transport. Outside of work, I enjoy Jiu Jitsu, climbing, open water swimming and spending time with my friends.







