David Hill was appointed last Friday as the first chief executive of the proposed Greater Cambridge Development Corporation – a new regeneration body being designed to drive infrastructure-first growth at scale and deliver thousands of new homes and jobs across the region.
David brings senior experience from central government, including 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 the role in September 2026.
Subject to parliamentary process, the Development Corporation will coordinate strategic delivery across Greater Cambridge, the region certainty and securing its status as an engine of national growth. The statutory instruments establishing the Development Corporation have been laid before Parliament.
This is another step in realising the government’s ambitions for Cambridge and the wider OxCam Growth Corridor, building on the announcements made by the Housing Minister and Chancellor last week.
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Matthew Pennycook MP, 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.”
David Hill, chief executive of the Greater Cambridge Development Corporation, said: “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.”
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