Sarah Richards, formerly the strategic director regeneration, housing and resources and Slough Borough Council, has joined the Planning Inspectorate as chief executive.
Richards joined Slough Borough Council in 2013, having previously held senior roles in Essex Council Council and Test Valley Borough Council, where she set up and lead a Planning Advisory Service. She has also worked as managing partner for Zurich Municipal Management Services, part of Zurich Insurance.
The Planning Inspectorate is a DCLG agency, responsible for national infrastructure planning, handling planning and enforcement appeals, and examining and monitoring councils’ local plans.
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Richards said: “I’m very excited about taking up the role as chief executive today and taking the reins of this well respected organisation. Across the wide range of its casework, the Planning Inspectorate is integral to ensuring a swift planning system is in place for all, from individual citizens through to major developers and corporations.”
Sara Weller, chair of the Planning Inspectorate’s Board, added: “I want to thank Steve Quartermain who has been acting chief executive at the Inspectorate since last October. He has done an excellent job in maintaining momentum and taking the organisation forward.”