New website
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Sarah Ashurst
Head of planning and regulatory services
Overview
Provides strategic leadership for city growth, public health, and regulatory enforcement through planning policy, development management, and sustainable transport initiatives. Oversees heritage and landscape conservation, environmental health, licensing, housing regulation, safety compliance, and emergency planning to ensure high-quality development, community well-being, and long-term resilience.
Key responsibilities
- Planning Policy, Development Management and Enforcement – setting the framework for sustainable growth and ensuring planning decisions are robust and enforceable.
- Building Control – maintaining construction standards and public safety.
- Sustainable Transport – advancing initiatives that support low-carbon, accessible travel.
- Conservation, Design and Landscape – preserving heritage assets and enhancing the quality of place.
- Environmental Health and Public Protection – safeguarding community wellbeing through proactive regulation.
- Licensing – managing commercial activity in public spaces to balance vibrancy and control.
- Private Sector Housing Regulation and Enforcement – improving housing conditions and tenant safety.
- Health and Safety – ensuring safe environments across workplaces and public settings.
- Emergency Planning – leading preparedness and response to civil emergencies.
