The head of Transport for London (TfL) will leave his job next year to lead the restoration of the Houses of Parliament.

Mike Brown, who has been London Transport Commissioner since 2015, will stay in post until the end of the current Mayoral term.

Mr Brown joined TfL in 1989, and was later managing director of Heathrow Airport, before returning to the transport network in 2010.

The Commissioner said he was looking forward to a new challenge, put paid tribute to the “thousands of unsung women and men” who work for TfL.

He said: “I am inspired by them and I will miss them, but it’s the right time for me to move on to a new challenge after more than 30 years in the transport industry and what will have been nearly five years as Commissioner.

“I’m proud of what has been achieved at TfL and I’m proud of having served and delivered for the Mayor.

“In spite of the challenges that London has experienced at times over the years, TfL is an organisation full of the energy, ability and passion to make this an even better city for all.”

Celebrating his legacy, the Sadiq Khan said the Commissioner deserved “huge thanks” for his “exceptional service” to the capital.

He said: “The recent transformation of the London’s public transport network into one of the very best in the world is testament to Mike’s expertise.

“Much of the exciting investment we’re continuing to see in transport across the capital is a result of Mike’s leadership and vision.

“I wish him the best of luck for everything in the future.”