The new chairman of the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust (JQDT) says collaboration and communication are two key objectives.

Stella Layton, who is chief executive and Assay Master at the Birmingham Assay Office, succeeds David Mahony, managing director of PCPT Architects.

Mr Mahony was instrumental in establishing the JQDT and the Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District (JQ BID) and will continue to be involved in the development of the historic area of Birmingham.

The development trust, formed almost four years ago, is a community interest company which operates for the benefit of the communities in the Jewellery Quarter.

It also oversees the JQ BID, which carries out a range of activities for the benefit of all who live, work, learn, invest in and visit the area.

A budget announcement from Birmingham City Council in  April may withdraw some financial support for the city's BIDs.

Ms Layton said: "If financial support is withdrawn by the council, the BIDs will need to work even harder to ensure they deliver their objectives for levy payers within the budget.

"This is why it's so important that the Jewellery Quarter is involved with any decisions that affect the city centre and the BIDs communicate and support each other.

"I also want to develop collaborative working between businesses and organisations within the Jewellery Quarter, particularly through training and apprenticeship opportunities.

"I'm looking forward to working alongside the trust's board of directors to continue to improve the area to attract new businesses, visitors and residents alike."