Over 400 transport professionals gathered in Glasgow on Thursday 19th June for the 22nd annual Scottish Transport Awards, a night dedicated to recognising the achievements, innovation and dedication driving Scotland's transport sector forward.
Hosted at the Glasgow Marriott Hotel and organised by Transport Times, the event showcased outstanding contributions across the industry — from pioneering public transport operators and local authorities to infrastructure specialists and frontline workers making a daily difference.
Delivering the keynote address was Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop MSP, who also presented the Transport Team / Partnership of the Year award. She praised the hard work and progress being made across Scotland's transport landscape and noted the important role collaboration plays in delivering positive change.
"It was an honour to speak at the Scottish Transport Awards tonight and to meet so many of the sector's major players and unsung heroes," she said. "This was my third Scottish Transport Awards, and I was able to reflect on the progress being made across the nation on so many impressive projects and initiatives."
"However, there is still so much to do. I want us to build on that momentum to deliver lasting change by working together on our key ambitions and priorities. Well done everyone on such a fitting occasion to celebrate your success."
A Night of Recognition
One of the evening's big winners was First Bus, which took home Public Transport Operator of the Year in recognition of its significant investment in digital innovation, fleet upgrades and customer engagement. The operator also won Excellence in Technology and Innovation for its AI-driven timetabling system, which has improved punctuality and network efficiency across Glasgow.
Network Rail claimed the coveted Transport Team / Partnership of the Year award for its role in the Levenmouth Rail Link Project — a transformative development reconnecting communities in Fife with Scotland's rail network after more than 50 years of disconnection.
Local authorities were also among those recognised for their vital contributions. City of Edinburgh Council won Excellence in Transport Design for the Roseburn to Union Canal Active Travel Route, a major investment in walking and cycling infrastructure. This long-anticipated corridor is reshaping urban connectivity, enhancing public spaces, and improving access to nature.
Angus Council impressed judges with its NCN1 Carnoustie Phase 2 project, winning Excellence in Walking, Public Realm & Cycling for its work improving safety and accessibility along a previously challenging route.
Meanwhile, Orkney Islands Council was named Transport Local Authority of the Year for the first time, recognised for its outstanding delivery of ferry, bus and air services, along with innovative infrastructure investment despite the complexities of a remote island setting.
Embracing Innovation and Inclusion
Technology and accessibility took centre stage, with Sustrans winning Excellence in Transport Accessibility for its work on the National Cycle Network Accessibility Programme. By removing hundreds of physical barriers, the initiative has significantly improved walking and wheeling access across Scotland.
A focus on community impact was evident in the recognition of Lothian Buses and Police Scotland, who won Excellence in Social and Community Value for Operation Crackle, a collaborative effort to reduce antisocial behaviour and create safer public transport environments.
In the realm of sustainability and innovation, Zenobē's ScotZEB 2 consortium was named Most Innovative Transport Project of the Year for its large-scale rollout of electric buses and charging infrastructure in partnership with multiple operators — a major milestone on the road to net zero.
Aberdeen International Airport was also a winner, reclaiming Airport of the Year thanks to its focus on sustainability, community engagement and improving customer experience.
Honouring Frontline and Lifetime Contributions
The awards also recognised individual excellence, with Lorna Hunter of ScotRail Trains Ltd being honoured as Frontline Employee of the Year. Her professionalism and calm response during a late-night incident demonstrated the compassion and dedication seen across Scotland's transport workforce.
Two individuals received top honours for their exceptional impact over time to Scotland's transport industry. Roy Brannen CBE was celebrated for his Outstanding Contribution to Transport, while Gillian Murray received the Lifetime Contribution to Transport award, reflecting decades of service and leadership in the industry.
Other winners included:
- Best Bus Service: Lothian Buses – Lothian Country Service 43
- Rail Supplier of the Year: Story Scotland
- Excellence in Travel Information and Marketing: Caledonian MacBrayne – Every Journey Starts a Story
- Contribution to Sustainable Transport: Royal Highland Show Traffic Management Working Group
- Best Practice in Transport Planning: The Edinburgh & South East Scotland City Region Deal – Workforce Mobility Project
A Night to Inspire the Future
The 2025 Scottish Transport Awards demonstrated the strength, creativity and community spirit running through Scotland's transport sector. From large-scale infrastructure projects to frontline staff going above and beyond, this year's winners reflect a shared commitment to building a greener, fairer, and more connected country.
As the industry looks to the future, events like these provide more than just a celebration — they offer a chance to learn from each other, inspire new partnerships, and continue the vital work of moving Scotland forward.
A full list of winners and photos from the night can be found at https://www.sta.events/shortlist and https://www.sta.events/gallery
