Death Announced of Former Hounslow Council Leader
Steve Curran MBE had stood down in 2022 after cancer diagnosis
Steve Curran on Brentford Bridge which he helped get restored
March 19, 2024
Tributes have been paid to Steve Curran following the announcement of his death this week.
The former Leader of Hounslow Council had not sought re-election in 2022 after he had been diagnosed with cancer.
Having previously worked for the NHS, he had become a councillor for Syon Ward in 2010 becoming Leader just four years later. In the interim 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.
During his term he helped guide the borough through the pandemic which he said afterwards was his proudest achievement though he was willing to share credit with councillors from all parties for the effort.
The council he led was rated the best in the country at the Local Government Chronicle awards in 2021 and in the 2023 New Year’s Honours list he was made an MBE for services to Local Government and to the community in Hounslow.
Earlier this month he was made an Honorary Alderman of the Borough of Hounslow although he was too unwell to attend the ceremony.
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.
Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, who took over as Leader from Mr Curran praised his “outstanding leadership, dedication, integrity and compassion in service to the public”.
Beyond his professional achievements, Mr Curran was deeply involved with local rugby clubs and organisations, and was a regular attendee of matches, especially at Twickenham Stadium.
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.”
Peter Thompson said on behalf of the Conservative Group on Hounslow Council, “All of us who knew him will be saddened by the news of Steve’s death after his long illness. Though we were on opposing sides in the Council Chamber I always found him to be a man of principle who was committed to making our Borough a better place.
“He led the borough through the pandemic and leaves behind a legacy of improvements that will stand the test of time. He worked tirelessly to regenerate parts of Hounslow, especially Brentford, and to bring investment into the borough.
“Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Ruth Cadbury, MP for Brentford and Isleworth said, “I will miss Steve, not only as a friend, but as such an effective leader of Hounslow Council. His legacy on our area includes the transformation of Brentford and Hounslow High Streets, the construction of over 1000 new Council homes, and the bringing together of Council and voluntary services through the innovatory Community Hubs. My sincere condolences to his son Samuel and all his family “
Ruth Cadbury MP with her friend Steve Curran MBE
To mark Mr Curran’s passing, a black ribbon will be placed on the Council flag at the Council offices at Hounslow House until 27 March.
Mr Curran was an avid supporter of Hounslow Community Foodbox and his family have asked if donations can be sent to this charity in lieu of flowers.
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