One of the ‘most respected' professionals in local government has been recruited by the CLG to spearhead local government regeneration. Irene Lucas, chief executive at South Tyneside MBC and a founder member of the Academy for Sustainable Communities, has been made director of local government and regeneration at the department. The new post is described by CLG's permanent secretary, Peter Housden, as ‘crucial' and will involve supporting councils in improving the ‘quality and delivery' of public services and promoting the ‘continued regeneration and improved economic performance' of communities. Ms Lucas has been at South Tyneside since 2002, and served for three years at the Academy for Sustainable Communities. She said: ‘It is with mixed feelings that I resign from South Tyneside to take up this national position. ‘In seven years with South Tyneside, I have had some wonderful opportunities and worked with some exceptional people.' She added: ‘The challenges facing the entire public sector create a great opportunity for partnership and innovation, while keeping an eye on outcomes for communities.' Ms Lucas was at the helm when the council won the ‘best achieving council' in The MJ awards last year.