Farewell to David List: Tamar Crossings General Manager Retires After 27 Years

A Career Shaped by Landmark Projects

David List, the long-serving General Manager of Tamar Crossings, has retired after 27 years of service. From overseeing the strengthening and widening scheme on the Tamar Bridge to managing the multi-million-pound Torpoint Ferry replacement programme, David has played a pivotal role in the organisation’s growth and success. His tenure saw up to 18 million vehicles crossing the River Tamar annually, supported by a safe and efficient service.

David also spearheaded the creation of the Visitor and Learning Centre and established a reputation within the national and international bridge community. For eight years, he was an integral member of the UK Bridge Owners Forum and served as one of two European representatives on the Board of the International Cable Supported Bridge Operators Association.

A Heartfelt Farewell

On 12th December, a special farewell event was held at the Tamar Bridge to honour David’s contributions. Attendees included staff from Tamar Crossings, members of the Joint Committee, and representatives from Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Council, as well as organisations and companies David has collaborated with over nearly three decades.

Joint Committee Chair Martin Worth paid tribute to David, thanking him for his “wonderful years of service”. As a token of appreciation, David was gifted a coat rack made from a bolt from the Tamar Bridge and a link from a ferry chain.

A Life in Engineering

David’s journey began with a first-class honours degree in civil engineering from Nottingham University. Early in his career, he worked with Redditch Development Corporation before moving to Hong Kong to contribute to major infrastructure projects, including land reclamation and bridge construction.

In 1997, David joined Tamar Crossings as Bridge and Ferry Manager, where he became integral to two key projects: the Tamar Bridge strengthening and widening scheme and the replacement of ageing ferries from the 1960s. The strengthening project was a global first, completed while maintaining live traffic, with only a 2% loss in traffic volume.

Building a Legacy

Reflecting on his career, David highlighted the satisfaction of building a strong, positive organisational culture and team. “Tamar Crossings has been a huge part of my life,” he shared. “The Ferries are unique and the biggest chain ferries in the world. This is the longest I have worked for one employer, and I have got very attached to the team and the amazing structure and vessels I have been in charge of for the past 27 years.”

Looking Ahead

Although David says he will miss the people he worked with, he is looking forward to retirement. His plans include continuing his hobbies of squash, running, cycling, orienteering, ornithology, and Latin dancing, as well as spending time with his children in the Cayman Islands.

“Tamar Crossings is in my blood now, and I will always look back with fondness and pride on what we have achieved,” he said.

David’s departure marks the end of an era for Tamar Crossings, leaving a legacy of excellence that will be remembered for years to come.