Walkley has been at the helm since March 2017 and led a major overhaul of the organisation as it pushes to increase housing supply and change the housing market.

Walkley said: “I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved and I’d like to thank my colleagues and our many industry partners for their dedication and support.

“My successor will find an organisation brimming with talent, purpose and heart. Homes England is well-positioned to support the country’s economic recovery and I wish my colleagues the very best.”

Peter Freeman, Chair of the Homes England Board, added: “On behalf of the Board and colleagues, I would like to thank Nick for his outstanding leadership in building a dynamic, commercial delivery agency.

“The country faces some crucial choices about how we emerge from the pandemic and Homes England stands ready to support the Government in stimulating economic recovery and increasing housing supply.”

Walkley will step down on 28 February. Gordon More, the agency’s Chief Investment Officer, will act as Interim CEO, supported by Lynda McMullan, Chief Financial Officer, and an executive team drawn from the public and private sectors.