Glenn will succeed John Hudson OBE DL, who has admirably led the volunteer board for six years, significantly contributing to the region's waterways and communities.
Helping guide our work
The West Midlands Regional Advisory Board plays an important role in helping to guide our work to keep the region’s historic navigable canals open and alive to benefit local people and wildlife. It works with us to help guide decisions and strategies to keep canals alive and champions the vital role that waterways play in the region.
Henriette Breukelaar, our regional director, comments: “I am delighted to welcome Glenn to our charity and would like to thank John for the amazing help and guidance he has provide these last six years.
“Glenn’s vision aligns with the Canal & River Trust’s mission to enhance the region’s waterways and strengthen their role in the community. His focus on cultural and social impact, alongside his deep understanding of urban development and regeneration, and his passion for the West Midlands, will be invaluable as he leads our Regional Advisory Board into its next chapter.”
More about Glenn
Glenn Howells brings a wealth of experience in architecture and urban design to the role. Since establishing his canal-side architecture practice in 1990 at the Custard Factory in Digbeth, Birmingham, Glenn has been at the forefront of some of the UK’s most complex and ambitious regeneration projects. He has been particularly influential in shaping cities, including Birmingham.
In addition to being a renowned architect, Glenn is an advocate for culture and has spent time on several boards for creative and educational organisations and advised government bodies and local authorities. These include University of Warwick, Birmingham City University, Design: Midlands, Ikon Gallery and Birmingham Hippodrome.
An exciting time for the region
Glenn expressed his enthusiasm for the new voluntary role, saying: “I am honoured to take on this responsibility at such an exciting time for the region. Our canals and rivers are not just part of our heritage; they are living, breathing spaces that connect our communities and inspire creativity. I look forward to working closely with the board and local stakeholders to unlock the full potential of these waterways, making them places where people can come together, enjoy nature, and celebrate the unique character of the West Midlands.”
