Cooksey named WPA chairman

Westminster Property Association has appointed James Cooksey, director of central London at the Crown Estate, as its new chairman with immediate effect. He replaces Neil Thompson, who stepped down from the WPA board following his departure from GPE. Craig McWilliam, chief executive of Grosvenor Britain & Ireland, has been appointed WPA vice chairman. Cooksey said: “I am honoured to take on this important role, which has come at a critical time for central London’s property sector as we grapple with a multitude of issues. I look forward to working on behalf of all our members in driving forward positive change in these challenging times. “I would also like to pay tribute to Neil, who has done a sterling job over the past year as chairman. He has left the organisation stronger than ever, with a programme of research and events which I am confident will ensure the WPA continues to make its voice heard at local, London and national level.” • To send feedback, e-mail shekha.vyas@estatesgazette.com or tweet @ShekhaV or @estatesgazette