The Leader of Hounslow Council has paid tribute to his predecessor, Honorary Alderman Steve Curran MBE, who passed away yesterday, 18 March following a long fight with lung cancer.

Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, who took over as Leader from Mr Curran in 2022 praised his "outstanding leadership, dedication, integrity and compassion in service to the public".   

Curran was first elected to the council in 2010 as Labour councillor for Syon ward and served until his retirement in 2022 due to health reasons.

Cllr Rajawat, said: "The council deeply mourns the loss of Steve, whose visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to public service have profoundly impacted our community.

"Throughout his tenure, Steve was instrumental in implementing innovative policies and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Hounslow's residents.

"His leadership was marked by a profound commitment to social justice, community development, and public service.   

"Steve's legacy is evident in the significant improvements made in education, housing, and environmental sustainability under his guidance, reflecting his dedication to the council's mission and the well-being of its citizens.

"His inspiring leadership style and pragmatic governance approach promoted an environment of inclusivity, collaboration, and resilience.    

"His One Hounslow spirit, good humour and brilliant ability to unite our communities will be greatly missed by every one of us.

"I had personally worked with him and been part of his Cabinet for four years and it has been a tremendous privilege to work alongside him.     

"The council extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, including his son Samuel, friends, and colleagues.

"The Hounslow community will always remember and be thankful for his exemplary service and leadership."  

"He will be missed and I know his memory will continue to inspire future generations of leaders to pursue a path of dedication, integrity, and compassion in service to the public."    

Steve Curran served as leader of the council from 2014 to 2022 and lived in Brentford for 39 years (credit: Hounslow Council).

Remembered for his leadership of the Council from 2014 to 2022, Curran's political career was marked by his significant contributions to cabinet positions for 13 out of his 14 years in politics.

He served as Cabinet Member for Education and Housing (2011-12), Education, Housing and Human Resources (2012-13), and Planning, Regeneration and Housing (2013-14).

His roles also included Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (2010-11), along with leadership and participation in various committees such as the Sustainable Development Committee and the Health and Wellbeing Committee, among many others.

He represented the Council on several external bodies including Brentford Dock, The Town Twinning Association of Hounslow, and the London Councils Housing Forum.

Curran's leadership saw Hounslow receive the Council of the Year award from the Local Government Chronicle in 2021, and he was honoured with an MBE in the 2023 New Year's Honours for his service to local government and the Hounslow community. 

He recently had the title of honorary alderman conferred, recognising his eminent services to the Council and the community. 

Having lived in Brentford for nearly 30 years, Curran retired from a 39-year career with the NHS, his final role being Head of Facilities at Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital. 

To mark Curran's passing, a black ribbon will be placed on the council flag at the Council offices at Hounslow House until 27 March.  

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