The City of London Corporation has today confirmed the appointment of Gwyn Richards as its Planning and Development Director.

Gwyn has been working in the position in an interim basis over the last year. He has over 25 years of experience in central London authorities, and has been involved in every tower and major development scheme in the Square Mile over the past ten years. His time at the City Corporation has given him specialist knowledge of the City’s unique built environment. Prior to this he worked in the planning departments of Westminster City Council and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

Going forward Gwyn will continue lead the Development Management team of 40 - including planning, design, conservation, archaeology and transport officers. The team is responsible for managing and promoting development while also safeguarding the historic environment.

Three tall buildings have already been approved this year by the City Corporation’s Planning and Transportation Committee, and recent statistics show that the City Corporation has so far in 2021 given planning consent for the equivalent of almost 80% of the total office floorspace that was approved during the whole of last year.

Chair of the Planning and Transportation Committee Alastair Moss said:

“I am delighted that Gwyn has been appointed as Planning and Development Director on a permanent basis.

“Over the last year he has done a fantastic job in leading the team during an immensely difficult time for the City.

“As we emerge from lockdown and drive the City’s recovery forward, I look forward to continuing to work with him to ensure the Square Mile offers a world-class environment for workers, visitors and residents.”

Gwyn Richards said:

“The last year has been hugely challenging for all of us, but recent planning applications show that investors and developers remain confident in the future of the City.

“I have long been committed in ensuring that planning in the City is radical, forward-looking and proactive. We want to make sure that the Square Mile is a successful, inclusive place for all.

“I will continue to lead my team to deliver a sustainable, cleaner and greener City that meets the needs of all our diverse communities.”

Head of the Establishment Committee Edward Lord OBE said:

“I would like to congratulate Gwyn on being appointed permanently as Planning and Development Director.

“This is an exciting and pivotal moment for the City Corporation, as we work to deliver transformational change to the world’s oldest municipal democracy.

“Planning is central to our vision of creating a vibrant and thriving City. Gwyn’s wealth of experience, knowledge and ambition will be invaluable in the months and years ahead.”

The appointment follows the introduction of a new operating model for the City of London Corporation, with eight new senior officers confirmed, including the first woman as Chamberlain, the City Corporation’s Chief Financial Officer, since the post was created in 1237.

ENDS

Notes to editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk