Sydney Opera House boss to run South Bank

The South Bank Centre has appointed the head of the Sydney Opera House as its new chief executive.

Michael Lynch, the third South Bank chief in as many years, will be taking on a redevelopment plan that has stalled for almost 15 years in tussles with the Government and the Arts Council. He comes from a similar development project in Sydney.

The dilapidated South Bank complex is in need of new investment, with the most urgent project being the revamping of the Royal Festival Hall, which was given planning permission in March.

Mr Lynch's appointment is the first move of latest chairman, Lord Hollick, who was given a three month deadline to come up with a plan of action.