Paul Morrison, Chief Executive at the Planning Inspectorate, is
moving to a new role within the Civil Service from January 2026.
Through his 3-year tenure, Paul has led the Inspectorate through
a period of change – introducing a new structure to embed a
service culture, growing the organisation to meet the demands of
the planning system and accelerating performance to decide
planning appeals faster whilst maintaining quality.
To continue this progress, Graham Stallwood has been appointed as
Interim Chief Executive ahead of open recruitment in 2026. Graham
has been the Chief Operating Officer at the Inspectorate since
2019 and brings a wealth of experience to the role.
Leading the Planning Inspectorate has been a great privilege.
During my time here, I'm proud that we've significantly reduced
appeal waiting times, modernised digital services and maintained
high quality decision-making. None of this would have been
possible without the commitment and skill of outstanding
colleagues.
I'm confident that the organisation is in excellent hands with
Graham Stallwood as Interim CEO. His experience and vision will
serve the Planning Inspectorate exceptionally well. After 3 years
in this role, now feels like the right moment for a new challenge
and I'm excited to return to the Home Office as Director General
for Visas, Passports, Citizenship and Resettlement Services.
Paul Morrison
I'm excited to step into this role at the Planning Inspectorate.
As a Chartered Planner by profession and having been part of this
organisation for 6 years, I know how vital our work is to shaping
communities and supporting national priorities including housing
delivery and infrastructure development.
I've worked alongside our excellent Inspectorate team and seen
their commitment first-hand. I'm determined to ensure we maintain
the high standards and certainty that the planning system depends
on during this transition.
Graham Stallwood
New Chief Planning Inspector
In the New Year, the Planning Inspectorate will also appoint a
new Chief Planning Inspector as Richard Schofield has decided to
step back from his role to continue his focus on opportunities
beyond PINS, including the extension of his secondment to the
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Rebecca
Phillips will continue as Interim Chief Planning Inspector during
the recruitment process.
Paul Morrison said:
Rich has been a huge asset to the Inspectorate as Chief Planning
Inspector. His deep knowledge, passion, and openness in the role
have helped to inspire colleagues throughout the system. I am
grateful to know he will continue to champion the Inspectorate in
government and externally.
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