British Waterways (BW) has appointed Steve Dunlop as its new regeneration director, following Mark Bensted's decision to step down from the role.

Dunlop will oversee canal-led regeneration projects across the UK, with 200 miles of new or restored waterways unveiled over the past 10 years. Formerly director of regeneration at Newcastle City Council, the 48-year-old will also continue in his role as Scotland director at BW - a role Dunlop has held since December 2006.

Dunlop said: "Regeneration is at the heart of British Waterways' ethos as we move to establish a 'national trust' for the waterways where communities have a greater say in how they use and get the maximum benefit from their local waterway." BW chief executive Robin Evans added: "His background as Scotland director, overseeing major projects and working with a wide range of partners, makes him the natural choice for the position."