Anglia has appointed experienced development specialist Debi Sherman as the company’s new head of planning.

Norwich-based Debi joins the regional team at its Broadland Business Park headquarters after more than 20 years’ experience in local authorities and private planning consultancy.

Managing director Michelle Baker said: “Securing an ongoing pipeline of development sites is crucial to the continuous success of our business, so attracting someone with Debi’s background and proven track record gives a real boost to our land and planning team.

“We are thrilled bring in someone with Debi’s outstanding professional reputation and integrity, and we look forward to seeing how she helps us to meet our challenging business targets this year and into the future.”

Debi, who holds a degree in urban planning and management and a master’s in environmental planning, joins Persimmon with significant experience of working within local authorities and private practice, giving her a wide understanding of town planning issues.

She said: “Our ultimate priority is to create places where people want – and are proud – to live. This role allows me to help deliver quality developments in the county where I live and also to play a fuller part in the housebuilding process, from land purchase right through to handing over the keys to a new home.

“Throughout my career I have worked hard to establish and nurture relationships with stakeholders. I understand the delicate balance between local authorities’ requirements to deliver their local plans and meeting the needs of the communities we all serve.

“I relish the opportunity to liaise with all interested parties to secure land and progress sites through the planning process to deliver new communities that local people will enjoy living in.”

Debi added: “We have the benefit of an excellent collaborative team at Persimmon Anglia. The land, planning and technical teams are very knowledgeable, and Persimmon is a very supportive employer, offering lots of ongoing training and development.

“I would love to see more young people recognising the great careers that are available in town planning. There is a real skills shortage in the sector, and we need to attract quality people to this profession.

“Here at Anglia, we are growing the land and planning team and looking to recruit at all levels, from trainees to senior and experienced practitioners.”