James Scott is appointed managing director of Maple Grove Developments

James Scott has been appointed as managing director of Maple Grove Developments taking over the role from Karen Hirst after she stepped down from the position at the end of October.

James, joined the group as a director of the Maple Grove business in 2021 and has been involved in bringing forward a number of high-profile schemes.  

The property development division of Eric Wright Group has delivered a wide range of town centre regeneration schemes and commercial developments across the North West region over many years building an ever-stronger reputation within the industry. 

The company is delivering a number of live projects including Lancashire Central, a 1.7m sq ft commercial development at Bamber Bridge near Preston, Penrith 41, a 19-acre industrial and logistics site in Penrith and Amounderness House, a 20,000 sq ft serviced office, which is pre-let and is being delivered for Preston City Council.

In 2025 the team also completed the £45m Animate leisure scheme for Preston City Council and started on site with its Hattersley Trade Park project in Tameside, which will complete next summer.

Jeremy Hartley, chief executive of the Eric Wright Group, said: “We are very pleased to see James take on the role of managing director and look forward to working with him in this next chapter for Maple Grove.

"James brings significant experience and knowledge to the role and, with the support of both the wider Eric Wright Group, and his experienced team, he will no doubt ensure the business continues to deliver its existing projects whilst continuing to identify new development opportunities.” 

He added: “I’d also like to express my personal gratitude to Karen Hirst for playing such a pivotal role in shaping the business to date and wish her every success in the next chapter of her career.”

James Scott said: “I’m immensely proud to be taking on the role of managing director and would like to thank Jeremy and the board for this incredible opportunity and to Karen for her commitment and leadership over the last nine years.

"I’m looking forward to continuing to work with my colleagues, clients and delivery partners to bring forward the exciting projects we have in place and to further growing the Maple Grove business.”