Liverpool strengthens ties with Knowsley

Liverpool City Council has appointed John McHale, formerly chief executive of Knowsley Housing Trust, as interim director of housing and neighbourhoods.

McHale is also chairman of South Liverpool Housing and provides consultancy services to housing associations across the country.

He will replace Cath Green, who leaves soon to become chief executive of First Choice Homes in Oldham, the arm's length management organisation set up by a local authority.

Cllr Joe Anderson, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: "As we restructure the council, I am determined that we do not lose momentum, and John's breadth of knowledge and understanding will be invaluable until we make a permanent appointment."

McHale will start work on Wednesday 8 September. His appointment follows the news that Knowsley Council and Liverpool City Council have entered a unique arrangement to share Knowsley's executive director of regeneration, Nick Kavanagh, in a temporary move for six months.