AN EXPERIENCED council officer has left Brighton and Hove City Council for a neighbouring authority.

Martin Randall has left his post as head of planning in the city to take up a new role as head of place and investment at Adur and Worthing councils.

Mr Randall had worked in the city for 23 years, starting as a senior planner and disabled access officer for Hove Borough Council.

His arrival at Adur and Worthing was welcomed by the councils’ director for the economy Scott Marshall, who said it was “an extremely exciting time” for the authorities with major regeneration projects at Teville Gate, Union Place and the Adur Civic Centre getting underway.

Mr Marshall, who is leaving the authority in July to set-up his own consultancy, said: “I’m certain that Martin’s 29 years of experience in planning and major project delivery will make a substantial impression on businesses throughout the region, as well as investors and developers around the country and, of course, our local communities.

“His role will be instrumental in the economic growth and development of our communities. “As the lead contact for the business community, I expect that Martin will drive forward our inward investment and skills growth agendas, as well as secure future funding for key infrastructure and regeneration projects throughout the area.”