The new unitary authority for Northumberland has appointed its executive directors, including a 'director for place'.

Richard Robson, whose background is in economic development, regeneration and property, will run the place directorate, charged with ensuring that Northumberland neighbourhoods are safe, green and clean. The directorate will oversee highways, waste disposal and collection, street cleaning, housing and libraries.

Robson, who has been chief executive of Tynedale Council since 2002, is a member of the Institution of Economic Development and the Royal Town Planning Institute.

He is one of four new executive directors for the council, selected by a cross-party panel of councillors, and due to take up their positions on 1 April. Jill Dixon, current acting chief executive of the county council, will be director of performance, responsible for securing value-for-money, while raising the standard of services.