David Hill has been appointed as the first chief executive of the proposed Greater Cambridge Development Corporation regeneration body.
Hill, who has extensive experience of central government, previously served as interim permanent secretary at DEFRA and director general with national responsibility for water policy. He has also served in local government as director of strategic commissioning and policy at Essex County Council. He will take up his new role in September 2026.
Subject to parliamentary process, the development corporation will coordinate strategic delivery across Greater Cambridge – from community facilities and utilities to housing. The statutory instruments establishing the development corporation have been laid before Parliament.
Matthew Pennycook, housing and planning minister, said: “I am delighted that David has agreed to become the first chief executive of the Greater Cambridge Development Corporation. Building on his strong track record in government, I know David will work closely with local partners to ensure the region is equipped with the powers and authority needed to deliver new housing, jobs and infrastructure at scale.”
Hill added: “I’m honoured and excited to be taking up this new role, and look forward to working with all our partners to deliver the jobs, infrastructure and homes needed to enable Cambridge to grow and to benefit local communities.”
Peter Freeman CBE, chair of the Cambridge Growth Company, said: “I am delighted that David will become chief executive of the Greater Cambridge Development Corporation in September. His experience will be invaluable in ensuring the development corporation is set up to succeed. Our overriding aim is to enable Greater Cambridge to deliver the economic growth the country needs by making it the most liveable city in Europe.”
