Chloe McCulloch

The first quarter of Regen Connect has tracked billions in funding, major project approvals and a fundamental shift in how regeneration is being delivered across the UK.

Applications have closed for the government’s first chief construction and scientific adviser, but can anyone realistically fulfil the job spec, wonders Chloë McCulloch On Monday night the deadline passed to apply for what may be the most demanding job in the built environment: the first ever chief construction and scientific adviser.

“I’m an open book, so ask away.” Thouria Istephan, interim construction adviser, is smiling and looking relaxed as we talk in a small, anonymous meeting room, deep in the MHCLG building in Westminster. As a recording device is set up on the desk in front of her, she jokes that any transcription software might struggle with her Huddersfield accent.