LEADING UK planning and development consultancy Lichfields has appointed Jonathan Wallace as its new Chair, taking over the reins from Justin Gartland.

Having completed 10 years as Chair, Gartland will continue in his fee-earning role in the Leeds office, having presided over significant expansion of the company, including opening four new offices, during his tenure.

Jonathan Wallace, a Senior Director and board member, has previously led the company’s Newcastle office and brings 30 years of planning experience into the role.

Wallace is one of the UK’s leading town centre and retail experts working for major clients such as M&S, McDonalds, and BP.

He will combine his fee-earning role with chairing the board and contributing to defining the strategic direction of the company.

Commenting on Wallace’s appointment, Chief Executive, James Fennell, said: “Jonathan’s experience and proven leadership credentials make him a great fit for this role. He will be central to the delivery of our exciting business strategy and making the most of the many opportunities that we have identified for the future.”

Wallace added: “It is an honour to succeed Justin Gartland and carry forward his great work, at the heart of which has always been looking after our clients and staff very well. As we are an employee-owned business, I am most looking forward to working with all our people to enhance Lichfields’ position at the forefront of the planning and development industry.”

Founded in 1962, Lichfields offers a broad range of planning and development consultancy services including development management, consultation, economics, EIA, heritage, and urban design.

Clients include developers, landowners and operators in the housing, retail, leisure, commercial, waste and recycling and infrastructure sectors, as well as local authorities and government bodies.