Former deputy mayor joins Willmott Dixon resi arm

London’s former deputy mayor for housing Richard Blakeway has joined Willmott Residential.

Blakeway (pictured) has been appointed as a strategic advisor to support the firm’s plans to expand its private sale and build-to-rent portfolio.

He was deputy mayor for housing under then mayor Boris Johnson between 2008 to 2016, before spending several months as an advisor to Cameron at No 10 Downing Street on housing policy.

In his new role, Blakeway will provide strategic advice to support Willmott Residential’s push to increase development volume across London in partnership with local authorities and other land owners, especially in growing its build for rent business Be:here.

Nic Simpkin, chief executive at Willmott Residential, said: “Ric brings a tremendous breadth of knowledge of housing with a proven track-record for unlocking opportunities to deliver significant numbers of homes while at the GLA.

“He will help strengthen relationships with key partners and we’ll benefit from his insight in planning and policy across the country.

“This advice will support our goal to regenerate more estates and turn brownfield sites into thriving new communities. Ric will also be supporting our efforts to develop in partnership with local authorities and housing associations on a more national basis.”