On 7 August 2017, NewRiver REIT plc announced David Lockhart's decision to take a leave of absence due to ill health. During this period David's health has continued to improve but he has also considered his future involvement in the business. Following consultation with the Board of NewRiver, David has made the decision to step down as Chief Executive Officer but maintain continued involvement at NewRiver as Executive Deputy Chairman.

This change is effective from 1 May 2018. In David's absence the executive responsibilities of the company have been shared between Allan Lockhart and Mark Davies. Following an executive assessment process undertaken by external consultants, the Board of NewRiver has appointed Allan Lockhart as Chief Executive Officer, effective from 1 May 2018.

As Executive Deputy Chairman, David's role will include supporting Allan and Mark as they drive NewRiver forward, advising on strategy, business development, investor relations and talent mentoring. Allan has over 25 years' experience in the UK retail real estate market, co-founded NewRiver with David in 2009 and as Property Director has been responsible for the company's acquisition and active asset management activity. More recently he has also overseen the company's risk-controlled development portfolio, and played an active role in NewRiver's investor relations programme.