New phase for PRoM - regen expert takes over as chairman

With the completion of the Maidenhead master plan - set for public inquiry in March - the Partnership for the Rejuvenation of Maidenhead (PRoM) plans to switch focus and one of its key tasks will be promoting and marketing the town to potential developers.

This second phase of PRoM's work means that the group will have a new independent chairman - Graeme Tulley (second left), a nationally-recognised expert in urban development and regeneration. Graeme, who is head of development and regeneration at property and planning consultants GLHearn, has volunteered to take over the role previously held by Bob Dulson (third left). Mr Dulson remains in the group as vice-chairman. Also pictured are Cllr David Burbage (left), leader of the Royal Borough and PRoM member, and Cllr Simon Werner, leader of the opposition and PRoM member.

Having steered the development of the area action plan over the past three years, PRoM agreed that its work should change direction to concentrate on taking regeneration forward through delivery of the plan, principally helping to market Maidenhead's development opportunities and attracting the interest of suitable investors.

Bob Dulson explained: "As we move towards the delivery phase of the plan, we felt it would be sensible and advantageous to re-shape PRoM to introduce a new set of skills and expertise suited to the task. Graeme taking over a chairman is very good news for Maidenhead. He is one of the most respected practitioners in his field.

"I'm delighted that he has agreed to come on board, reflecting the new emphasis. His knowledge and expertise are unparalleled and should ensure that we get the best possible results for Maidenhead."

Mr Tulley, who chaired his first meeting of PRoM on Tuesday 18 January, has 30 years experience in planning, development and regeneration of town centres and is one of the UK's leading advisors to both the private and public sectors.

He said: "I was delighted to be asked to chair PRoM as it enters the all-important delivery phase. Following on from Bob Dulson will be a tall order as his championship of all things Maidenhead has been exemplary. However, I am thrilled that Bob is remaining as vice chairman with all his expertise and energy and that PRoM is now firmly focused on helping deliver high quality schemes and community benefits."

The membership of PRoM has also changed to reflect its change in direction, with new members drawn from business, planning and architectural backgrounds.

The group retains its cross party support from the Royal Borough with the membership of Cllr David Burbage (Conservative), council leader and chairman of Maidenhead Town Partnership, and Cllr Simon Werner, leader of the Liberal Democrat Opposition.

Email PRoM at prom@rbwm.gov.uk

Notes:
The public inquiry into the Maidenhead Area Action Plan is scheduled to start on Monday 28 March 2011 in the Town Hall.

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