Ebbsfleet Development Corporation is pleased to announce the appointment of Sara Waller as the new Chief Executive, effective 23rd March 2026. Sara brings extensive leadership experience in driving major urban development, housing and regeneration programmes, taking complex programmes from vision to delivery, with a real commitment to sustainable growth. Sara joins Ebbsfleet Development Corporation at a pivotal stage in the delivery of Ebbsfleet Garden City, a pioneering scheme to facilitate the regeneration of Ebbsfleet in North Kent and enabling delivery of up to 15,000 new homes on the Kent Thames riverside.
In her new role, she will lead the delivery of a new town centre for Ebbsfleet and the continued delivery of new housing – strengthening strategic partnerships across government, local authorities and the private sector. She will play a central role in advancing the Corporation’s ambition to create a world-class 21st-century Garden City.
A chartered surveyor, who began her career at Arup as a civil and structural engineer, Sara has more than two decades of experience across housing, local government, regeneration and the built environment. She joins the Corporation from her role as Strategic Director at the Sovereign Network Group (SNG). Previously, Sara was Co-Strategic Director for Sustainable Growth and Opportunity at the London Borough of Lambeth, following a long tenure leading major regeneration programmes as Head of Regeneration South at Southwark Council and time in the private sector.
Reflecting on her appointment, Sara said: “I am honoured to lead Ebbsfleet Development Corporation at such an exciting moment. I look forward to working with the team, the Board, partners, local stakeholders and residents to build on the progress to date and help realise the full potential of Ebbsfleet Garden City – with vibrant places, quality new homes and opportunities for residents and businesses.”
Matthew Pennycook, Minister of State for Housing and Planning, said: “I would like to thank Ian Piper for his years of service and his leadership in driving forward this vital regeneration project. I am delighted that Sara Waller will become the next Chief Executive of Ebbsfleet Development Corporation.
With a strong track record in housing and regeneration, I know Sara will play a pivotal role in ramping up the delivery of thousands more homes and unlocking the infrastructure needed for local people to thrive across Ebbsfleet – benefiting both new and existing communities.”
David Prout, Chair of Ebbsfleet Development Corporation added: “We are delighted to welcome Sara as Chief Executive Officer. Her experience and leadership will be invaluable as we enter the next chapter of growth for Ebbsfleet, accelerating delivery and unlocking development sites to drive forward much needed new homes and infrastructure for the area. We look forward to continuing to deliver at pace and getting started on a new town centre for Ebbsfleet.”
