Warm welcome for ‘Mr Manchester’

OLDHAM Council’s two main political parties have welcomed news that Sir Howard Bernstein is set to work with the authority until it appoints a new chief executive.

Sir Howard, dubbed “Mr Manchester”, chief executive at Manchester City Council, is widely credited with the city’s regeneration in recent years following the devastation of the 1996 IRA bomb.

Sir Howard will work alongside Oldham’s interim chief executive, Carolyn Wilkins, the current deputy, until a replacement chief executive is found for Charlie Parker, who is moving to a top role at Westminster Council.

Labour councillor David Hibbert said: “It is extremely good news for Oldham’s regeneration and shows the high respect people had for the work Charlie Parker did.

“That Sir Howard Bernstein is prepared to come here and continue this work on an interim basis is excellent for the borough’s reputation and the creation of a new Oldham. It’s very welcome news. A lot of good work is being done here.”

Lib-Dem group leader, Councillor Howard Sykes, said: “Sir Howard Bernstein has a proven track record. He is giving us strategic advice ensuring that some key projects get signed-off and delivered, such as the redevelopment of Mumps, the old town hall and the wider town centre.”