The Connected Places Catapult has appointed urban expert Professor Greg Clark CBE as its new chair.

The author and adviser has had a varied career working with the OECD, World Bank, London Docklands Development Corporation and in the office of the Deputy Prime Minister. He has advised a large number of major cities about their strategic planning.

Prof Clark replaces Terry Hill who is stepping down. He’ll serve as Chair for an initial three years.

The Connected Places Catapult was formed by the merger of the Future Cities Catapult and the Transport Systems Catapult last year to grow UK businesses and accelerate smarter living and travelling in and between the places of tomorrow.

Commenting on joining the CPC at such an unusual time, Prof Clark said, “COVID-19 has been a tragedy for our society and a major shock for our economy, but it can also propel us forwards by encouraging the adoption of new modes and patterns of travel, as well as more efficient ways to use buildings and deliver urban services and public spaces”.