The City of London Corporation has appointed its current assistant director of design, Gwyn Richards, to take over as interim chief planning officer when Annie Hampson retires next month.

Richards has been involved in every major planning decision in the square mile for the past 10 years, and as part of his new role he will lead a team of 40 planning, design, conservation, transport and archaeology officers.

Commenting on his appointment, Richards said that he intends to facilitate planning policy that is “radical, forward-looking and proactive. …We all face challenging times and planning in the City needs to adapt to find radical solutions for the greater good. We have a strong and dynamic team who are up to the task.”

Meanwhile, chair of the planning and transportation committee, Alastair Moss, said: “Gwyn’s expertise will help us transition smoothly following Annie’s retirement next month. He will now lead a strong and experienced team that will help to shape the future of the Square Mile.”

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