Westminster Council director of planning and city development, Gordon Chard, has announced his retirement.
Chard has worked at Westminster for nearly 19 years.
The council will begin the recruitment process to find a replacement later this month.
His replacement will lead the planning department through a string of major projects including the regeneration of Oxford Street and significant developments at Victoria and Chelsea Barracks.
Chard was assistant planning officer at Brent Council before joining Westminster, where he became head of planning services in early 2004.
Peter Rogers, chief executive, said: “Gordon’s achievements have done a great deal to improve the reputation of the city council.
“He is an exceptional individual who, in my view, has made our planning department the best in the country and it has been a pleasure to work with him.”
Chard added: “It has been a privilege to work with so many talented people. I leave behind an excellent department and some truly great friends.”
References: EGi News 12/01/07
