Network Rail has brought in Becky Lumlock to oversee one of the UK’s busiest routes from November.

Ms Lumlock, currently MD of major UK gas import terminal Dragon LNG, has been appointed route managing director for Sussex, a rail network which includes Waterloo - Britain’s busiest railway station - and the major commuter area to the south and west of London.

She replaces John Halsall, who will soon be heading up Network Rail’s south-east route, and much of her work will involve work closely with South West Trains, which operates the main rail franchise on the Wessex route.

After working in the energy industry for more than 20 years in four continents, leading major infrastructure projects, Ms Lumlock is well equipped for her new transport role, said Phil Hufton, managing director for Network Rail in England and Wales.

He commented: “[Becky] has worked in a wide variety of senior leadership roles and served as a board director on several joint venture companies, including in the Middle East and the Americas.

“Her strong commercial background and the transferable skills she brings from her experience in the energy industry will be invaluable on this busy route.”