The man who reinvented Manchester Sir Howard Bernstein has died aged 71

Sir Howard Bernstein, the former chief executive of Manchester City Council, has died aged 71.

Sir Howard along with former Council leader Sir Richard Leese led the development of the city and the successful bid for the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

Born in Cheetham Hill in 1953, Sir Howard rose from town hall clerk in 1971 to chief executive, a role he held from 1998 to 2017.

Throughout his career he has led a number of regeneration-based activities – including the rebuilding of the City Center following the 1996 terrorist bomb, developments associated with the hosting of the 2002 Commonwealth Games, including what is now the Etihad Campus, a range of events major. commercial, transport and cultural developments including Spinningfields, the emergence and then expansion of Metrolink, Bridgewater Hall, Home, Manchester Conference Centre, City Art Gallery and now the Factory which is part of the St John’s development.

He also led the negotiations for the historic Devolution deal between Greater Manchester and the government, which included health and social care.

He was knighted for services to Manchester in 2003.

He was married to Lady Vanessa Bernstein,brother to Russell, a loving father to Jonathan and Natalie and a devoted stepfather to Danielle, Francesca and Dominique.

Sir Howard was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren.

A lifelong supporter of Manchester City FC, Sir Howard was its honorary chairman. He was also Chairman of Lancashire Cricket for a decade, and after retiring from public life became Honorary Professor of Politics at the University of Manchester.

The tributes have already begun

“Sad day for Mr. Howard was a great public servant, he had the vision and ability to bring different stakeholders together to deliver for Manchester. It was a privilege to work with him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.” former Manchester Council deputy leader Lufthar Rahman said

Oldham Council leader Arooj Shah described him as someone who truly transformed the town into the powerhouse it is today and someone who personified public service.

Manchester City said in a statement

“Sir Howard’s contribution and dedication to the development and regeneration of Manchester was outstanding and his passion for our football club was clear to all.”

Manchester night king Sasha Lord said

“Without a doubt in my mind, the most important figure to lead Manchesters revival. A true Manchester legend.”

More to come……