As Paul Morrison, current chief executive of the Planning Inspectorate, prepares to move to a new role in the Civil Service, the interim CE has been announced
Graham Stallwood has been appointed as the interim Planning Inspectorate chief executive, before open recruitment opens in 2026.
Stallwood acted as the COO of the inspectorate since 2019, meaning he is experienced with the Inspectorate’s work.
A new chief inspector is also coming
In 2026, the Planning Inspectorate will also appoint a new chief planning inspector, with the current Richard Schofield having decided to step down from his role and focus on other work.
Rebecca Phillips will continue to act as the interim chief inspector until then.
Paul Morrison said: “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.
“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.”
Graham Stallwood said: “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.”
The Planning Inspectorate is working to boost efficiency
In September, The Planning Inspectorate introduced a new checklist for local plan examinations, which came into effect in October.
The checklist is intended to give inspectors an easier method to check legal compliance, plan content, and absorbing the available evidence.
It also ensures that all necessary practical arrangements are in place and that essential evidence and documents are ready to be submitted.
Once the checklist has been completed, the Inspectorate will then aim to respond within 10 working days.
More information on the checklist can be found in the Procedure Guide and related documents.
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