Richard Hicks has been confirmed as Medway Council's new Director of Regeneration, Community and Culture.

Mr Hicks was previously the Deputy Director beneath Robin Cooper, who left in June after ten years in the role to head up the new Ebbsfleet Garden City Urban Development Corporation.

Since then he has been acting in the role of director and will now take up the position on a permanent basis.

The position previously commanded a salary of £154,299, second only to chief executive Neil Davies’ £183,816, but the new role was advertised as "£103,340 to £125,051 plus special allowance of £7,575."

Born and bred in Medway, Mr Hicks will now take the reins on some of the council's most important regeneration schemes - including Rochester Riverside, Chatham Waterfront and Temple Waterfront – providing new homes, schools, leisure facilities, shops and restaurants, and space for new businesses.

It’s all part of Medway’s 20-year regeneration programme set to make the area an even more desirable place to live, work, learn and visit.

Richard said: "I am really enjoying the opportunity to lead this exciting directorate with such an excellent team, and I look forward to progressing the ambitious plans for regenerating Medway, as well as managing the vital day to day services our residents rely on.

"I think it is fair to say we are entering an exciting and defining period in Medway. The council has a long-standing commitment to the area’s regeneration and we have made great progress so far, building on the potential we have with fast train connections to the capital and the continent, and our outstanding university offer.

"I believe Medway's story of growth and development will put it firmly on the map."

Richard continues to oversee Medway council's cultural projects, including the many council-run festivals attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year, as well as the rich heritage of offer in the form of Rochester and Upnor Castles.

Leader of Medway Council Cllr Alan Jarrett said: "I am pleased to welcome Richard into his new role and look forward to working with him as we move Medway’s exciting plans forward over the coming years."