Urban development big hitter appointed to growth area

The West Northamptonshire Urban Development Corporation has appointed a big hitter as its chief executive as it seeks to deliver the government’s housing plans.

WNDC has appointed Michael Hayes, past president of the Royal Town Planning Institute, to run the UDC, which lies within the Milton Keynes growth area.

Acting chief executive Roger Mendonca has been appointed to the position of deputy chief executive and director of strategy.

Hayes, currently a corporate director of Watford council, said he was delighted to have been offered the position.

He said: “I am looking forward to working with the communities of Northampton, Towcester and Daventry and board members to take advantage of the many opportunities that are available at this critical time.”

UDC chairman Keith Barwell said: “Michael brings with him considerable specialist knowledge in planning, regeneration and development at regional, city and local levels. Roger of course has been involved in setting up the WNDC and has made rapid progress in a relatively short period of time.”