The chief executive of Historic England has been confirmed as a member of the Chatham Historic Dockyard board of trustees.

Duncan Wilson OBE has held several senior positions managing heritage assets across the country.

He said: “The Historic Dockyard Chatham is a fascinating place. I’ve always been interested in the challenge of charting a future for our past and like Chatham, Somerset House and Greenwich are key parts of our national naval history which were opened up for the public to enjoy. I greatly admire the way the team at Chatham has also tackled this challenge.

“I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and passion to this special place as it builds on its great achievements.”

Mr Wilson, who was awarded an OBE for his services to heritage in 2007, will take up the post when the board meets on February 27.

Historic England is the national the body which promotes and protects the nation's heritage.

Sir Trevor Soar, chairman of the Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, said: “Duncan has an extraordinary track record in leading significant heritage projects and an overt passion for protecting England’s heritage.

"He will bring a tremendous wealth of experience to the role. His appointment comes at an exciting time as we are on the cusp of launching our new Corporate Plan, detailing the aspirations for the trust for the next five years."

Mr Wilson replaces Laura Nesfield, a property expert who helped oversee the trust's property portfolio and managed major projects.

The 80-acre dockyard site comprises 115 houses, 110 businesses and groups and welcomes 190,000 every year, supports 500 jobs and contributes some £29m to the Medway economy.

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