New director appointed at Wealden District Council

A new director of Planning, Policy and Environmental Services has been appointed at Wealden District Council.

Chris Bending took over the role this month from former director Isabel Garden, who has retired after almost 20 years with the local authority.

Mr Bending, born and bred in Sussex, began his career at Wealden as a trainee back in 2006 and since then has risen to Head of Service – first for Planning and Environmental Services and more recently leading the Policy & Economic Development Service.

Married with two young children, Mr Bending, 37, lives in Sussex and in his spare time enjoys spending time with his family on outdoor activities. He is also a school governor.

Wealden District Council leader Ann Newton said, “I would like to congratulate Chis on his well-deserved appointment as corporate leader. He joined us as a trainee and it is testament to his hard work and dedication here at Wealden that has seen him rise up through the organisation.”

Councillor Newton also paid tribute to Mrs Garden, who retired and has now moved to Scotland.

She said, “I would also like to thank Isabel for her commitment to the council. She inspired her colleagues to become sound professionals and was a very well respected leader. I wish her well in her retirement and all best wishes for her future endeavours.”