Directorate Change

ASHTEAD GROUP PLC

DIRECTORATE CHANGE

Ashtead Group plc ("Ashtead") today announces the appointment of Brendan Horgan
as Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") of its US subsidiary, Sunbelt Rentals Inc
("Sunbelt") replacing Joe Phelan who formally ceased being CEO of Sunbelt and a
Director of Ashtead as of close of business on 25 January 2011. Mr Horgan also
joins the Board of Ashtead as an Executive Director immediately.

Brendan Horgan is a US citizen based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Brendan
joined Sunbelt in 1996 and in recent years has held a number of senior
management positions including as Chief Sales Officer and Chief Operating
Officer.

Geoff Drabble, Chief Executive of Ashtead commented;

"We are delighted to announce Brendan's appointment as CEO of Sunbelt. Brendan
has a wealth of experience of the US plant hire industry in general and of the
Sunbelt operation in particular. He has been instrumental in developing the
Sunbelt business over a number of years and in his new role I am confident that
he will help us take further advantage of the opportunities which exist at this
exciting time for the rental industry in North America

We would also like to thank Joe Phelan for his efforts over the past couple of
years and wish him every success in the future."

In accordance with paragraph 9.6.13 (1) - (6) of the Listing Rules, Brendan
Horgan has advised that he has no details to disclose.

Geoff Drabble Chief executive ) [phone]

Ian Robson Finance director )

Brian Hudspith Maitland [phone]