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SENIOR TEAM COMPLETE AS WALSALL REGENERATION COMPANY APPOINTS PROGRAMME DIRECTOR - 28 July '05
The senior team that will lead the renaissance of Walsall over the next ten to 15 years has been completed.
Akshay Parikh, an influential figure in regeneration in the town over the past decade, has been appointed Programme Director for Walsall Regeneration Company (WRC).
Akshay has joined WRC from regeneration zone Future Foundations, where he was programme manager. Before that he was senior urban regeneration manager for Walsall Council.
WRC Chief Executive Peter Cromar said he was delighted with the appointment.
“Akshay has an in-depth understanding of the challenges facing Walsall, which will prove extremely valuable as we bring forward the strategic framework that will transform the town and its economy,” he said.
“He also has an enviable track record in building the partnerships that can make a real difference to people’s lives by delivering substantial, inspirational physical regeneration projects.”
The appointment completes the WRC senior executive. Alongside Peter and Akshay is Development Director Will Evans, who joined in March.
Akshay said: “The renaissance of Walsall is a major challenge but there are huge opportunities such as the proposed development around Waterfront and at Darlaston.
“One of Walsall’s major advantages is its location, within the Black Country and the Birmingham city region, with the M6 linking the two.”
Akshay has played an important role in a number of high profile initiatives.
He co-ordinated the team that won funding for the nationally acclaimed New Art Gallery, led Walsall’s element in the bid for the formation of Future Foundations and was instrumental in the early drive to secure an urban regeneration company for Walsall.
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Notes to Editors
Walsall Regeneration Company WRC’s strategy is focused on attracting £600 million of public and private sector investment over the next ten to 15 years, remediating 120 hectares of derelict industrial land and creating 15,000 jobs.
It brings together public and private sector agencies, taking a lead role in co-ordinating and enabling major regeneration projects within its 780 hectare area of operation.
Prime areas of focus include Walsall town centre, Waterfront and Darlaston, a strategic development opportunity for business next to the M6.
Future Foundations Future Foundations is the regeneration zone for Walsall, Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire, one of six such zones established by regional development agency Advantage West Midlands.- ENDS -
For further information contact:
Nigel Pipkin
Seal Communications
Tel: 0121 200 0780
Fax: 0121 200 0781
Email: nigelpipkin@sealcommunications.co.uk