ROBERT Hough was today confirmed as the new chairman of the Northwest Regional Development Agency.

He will take over from Bryan Gray on August 17.

Mr Hough has been on the NWDA's board since December 2007 and is deputy chairman of Peel Holdings. He also holds a number of other roles, including non-executive directorships at Altrincham store refurbishment group Styles & Wood and Provident Financial.

Today he said: "Naturally, I am thrilled and hugely honoured. I have no doubt that there are challenges ahead but it is my personal commitment to make sure that the region is well-placed to face them robustly, build on our many strengths and emerge from this downturn in a strong position."

Mr Hough had been pitted head-to-head against Central Salford UDC chair Felicity Goodey after a third contender, Vanda Murray, decided not to run.

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