The UDC is a new body set up in December 2004, to drive the growth and regeneration of Northampton, Daventry and Towcester.
Mr Barwell is passionate about the area, in which he has lived and worked for most of his life, building up several highly successful businesses in the process. He has proved himself as a dynamic business leader and champion of Northampton's rich sporting and cultural heritage. He is currently the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Northampton Rugby Club, the Saints. He has been closely involved with the restoration of one of Northampton's most interesting 20 th century buildings, 78 Derngate, formerly the home of the Bassett Lowke family, the interior of which was designed and furnished by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Jeff Rooker, Minister for Regional Development and Regeneration said:
"The UDC provides the opportunity to ensure that Northampton, Daventry and Towcester are enhanced through sustainable, high quality development, and that the history and character of the area is protected. I am confident that Keith is the person to drive forward that process as chair of the UDC."
Keith Barwell said:
"I am delighted to be appointed as Chairman of the West Northamptonshire UDC. In my role as Chair-Designate, I have enjoyed working with a range of local stakeholders and I now look forward to building this partnership across the public, private and voluntary sectors to regenerate this flagship region and deliver a more sustainable future for the communities of Towcester, Daventry and Northampton."
Keith Barwell was appointed Chair-Designate in September last year; he has worked closely with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister during the House of Lords Select Committee on the Order to establish the UDC and in selecting the Deputy Chair and other Board Members. The UDC will be fully operational early in 2005 following the appointment of the remaining Board members, including six to be appointed following nominations from the four local authorities.
