Regeneration chief appointed for three councils

Three councils in north Worcestershire have appointed a head for their shared economic development service.

Dean Piper joins as the new head of economic development and regeneration from East Staffordshire Borough Council where he was enterprise and partnerships manager for nearly nine years.

His new role as head of economic development and regeneration will cover Redditch, Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest district councils.

Piper said: “The economic situation is improving but there is still a challenging financial climate, so we want to make sure the area is as
dynamic and attractive as possible for potential investors and our existing businesses.”

He said that the new role would involve working on key developments including a new hotel, conference centre and leisure facilities at Midlands Safari park, the development of the Hoo Brook link road near Kidderminster, and the redevelopment of Kidderminster and Bromsgrove town centres.

Piper will focus on attracting inward investment to the area, as well as promoting a work experience initiative to give students professional skills.

John Campion, leader of Wyre Forest District Council, said: “Economic development and regeneration is a key priority for the area and we have selected Dean for his experience and commitment in this sector.”