Croydon have recruited the man at the helm of Hackney’s Olympic legacy scheme.

Stephen McDonald is the council’s new executive director for planning and environment.

Mr McDonald had worked for the past two years as director of regeneration in Hackney, and, for the two years prior to that, as the strategic director of major projects in Southwark.

Upon his appointment he said: “I’m aware of the fantastic work that’s been done by the team to get the town to this point, and am confident that I can lead the next stage and help guide the successful implementation of the plans that will revitalise the borough. In the light of last week’s events, this has never been more important.”

Croydon Council leader Mike Fisher added: “We’re very pleased that Stephen has decided to join our management team. With his extensive knowledge of major capital regeneration, he’s exactly the right man to take Croydon forward at this exciting time.

He is expected to take up his new role in Croydon in late September.