Mayor shakes up board of Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation

The mayor of London has appointed five new members to the board of the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC).

The organisation is responsible for developing a huge swathe of brownfield land in west London.

Out of more than 200 people applied for the board applicants, Sadiq Khan picked Shahi Islam, director of affordable housing at Homes England, and Alexander Jan, chief economic adviser, London Property Alliance.

Also included were Alison Dowsett, former managing director at Berkeley Group, Eleanor Young, director of Blackstock Partnership, and Sarah McCready, director of social infrastructure and communications at Barking Riverside Limited.

Changes have also been made to OPDC’s planning committee, with Hannah David, director of planning futures and a former local authority planning committee chair, brought in.

William Hill, who is departing as a board member, will remain on the planning committee in his current role as chair.

Karen Buck, chair of OPDC, said: “I am delighted to welcome six such talented and knowledgeable individuals to bring their considerable expertise to our Board and Planning Committee. 

“OPDC’s vision for Old Oak will create a revitalised and inclusive urban district in the heart of West London and they join the organisation at an exciting time with plans progressing at pace. 

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“I also wish to express my gratitude to the Board Members who are stepping down from their roles following completion of their terms for the excellent service they have provided in navigating us to this important juncture.”

Procurement is set to launch later this year for a private sector partner to join with OPDC to deliver its £10bn Old Oak scheme. 

Following approval from the Mayor, on 12 September, OPDC made a compulsory purchase order to secure the remaining land required for the comprehensive regeneration of Old Oak. 

OPDC is also preparing to review its local plan, which covers the 655ha Old Oak and Park Royal opportunity area.

Engagement begins early next year and consultation is set to launch in autumn 2026.