Chief Executive of Network Rail, Sir Andrew Haines, has said that he is going to retire in October 2025.

Since his appointment in August 2018, Andrew Haines has lead Network Rail through the COVID-19 Pandemic, ensuring the railway continued to run for key workers and critical goods.

Speaking on behalf of the Board, Network Rail’s Acting Chair Mike Putnam said: “Andrew has been an exceptional leader for Network Rail at a critical time in the history of Britain’s railways. He has secured reforms that will lead to a more reliable railway, while maintaining a continual focus on safety and performance.

“His vision, leadership and ambition for an integrated, simpler railway that will deliver a significantly better experience for passengers has been at the heart of the creation of Great British Railways.

“I’d like to thank Andrew for his unwavering dedication and leadership of Network Rail over the last seven years.”

Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, said: “I’d like to thank Andrew for the commitment and leadership he’s shown over the past seven years. He provided stability during the most challenging of periods and ensured the railway kept running throughout the pandemic and through national industrial action.

“His vision and support has been vital as we establish Great British Railways – one of this government’s biggest reforms. His work has been a key part of our efforts to deliver a simpler, more efficient railway, with passengers at its heart.”

Sir Andrew Haines commented: “It has been a privilege to lead Network Rail through a time of such change and transformation for Britain’s railways, and I am proud of the progress that we have made on performance, safety, reliability and customer service.

“After seven years as Chief Executive, as Great British Railways starts to progress through legislation and into implementation, I have decided it is the right time for me to retire.

“I am a passionate supporter of the principles behind Great British Railways and the once-in-a-generation opportunity it presents to create an integrated railway that delivers a better service and experience for passengers, stakeholders and colleagues. It has been a privilege to lead this transformational journey to date.”