12 February 2007
City of London appoints new City Surveyor
The City of London Corporation has appointed Peter Bennett to
the role of City Surveyor. Peter will take up the new post in
January 2008 upon the retirement of Ted Hartill who has been in the
post since 1985.
The job of City Surveyor is an ancient and modern one. It dates
back to 1478 when Edward Stone was appointed Clerk of the City’s
Work, it wasn’t until 1891 that the position became known as City
Surveyor. It was a previous City Surveyor, Sir Horace Jones, who
designed and built Tower Bridge.
The modern role of City Surveyor is to manage and coordinate all
activity relating to commercial property and construction owned by
the City of London. The City Corporation has investment property
extending to 20% of the City and extensive areas of the West End
and mid town. The City Surveyor also has responsibility for the
City of London’s operational property such as The Guildhall and
Mansion House.
The role also involves managing the City Property Advisory Team
(CPAT) which aims to ensure that City businesses find and retain
premises in the Square Mile which best meet their needs.
Peter has been the Deputy City Surveyor since 1990. During this
time he has helped facilitate some notable business retentions for
the Square Mile including Merrill Lynch, Goldmans, AMN Amro, Aon
and Willis. He was also pivotal in helping unlock the Paternoster
development site and a number of schemes where Rights of Light are
an issue.
Peter has presented evidence to Parliament regarding tall
buildings and the impact of planning on the business world. His
main focus is on the long term development of the City business
cluster including infrastructure services.
Archie Galloway, Chairman of the City of London’s Property
Sub-Committee said:
"I have worked with Peter over many years and know he will bring to
the post substantial experience. He is quite rightly respected
within the industry."
Previously Peter worked in South Wales and the North of England.
He has a degree in geography from Cambridge University, is a
permanent member of the Bank of England’s Property Forum and has
been a Chartered Surveyor for over 30 years.
Peter said: "I am delighted to be taking up the City Surveyor
position. This is a demanding but very fulfilling role at a time
when the Square Mile is going through exciting changes."
Ends
For further information, photographs or interviews please call:
Fiona Milligan, Press Office, City of London Corporation. Direct
line: 020 7332 3451 Mobile: 07900 244 200 or
email.