Lord Bob Kerslake, chair of the Stockport Mayoral Developent Corporation (MDC) has died aged 68, after a short illness. 

As MDC chair, Lord Kerslake presided over millions of pounds of development in Stockport - most recently, the 'digitally-enabled', 'walkable', eight-acre neighbourhood Stockport 8.

Lord Kerslake also served as former head of the Civil Service, chief executive of Homes England, permanent secretary of the Department for Communities & Local Government, and a number of other public service roles. 

Labour leader Keir Starmer was among those who paid tribute to Lord Kerslake, saying: "Bob was a talented public servant, utmost professional, and a good man."

The MDC board also commemorated Lord Kerslake in a statement: "It is with deepest sadness the MDC Board has learnt of the passing of its Chair, Lord Bob Kerslake, after a short illness. Our thoughts are with his family at this extremely difficult time.

"As part of a life dedicated to public service, Bob led the MDC Board since January 2020 and was the driving force behind its success. 

"His experience, direction, insight and compassion shaped the way in which the MDC has worked and he will be hugely missed by the Board, wider team and anyone who came into contact with him. 

"Building consensus and cross-party working, which have been key to the MDC success, will be part of Bob's many lasting legacies.

Cllr Mark Hunter, leader of Stockport Council, said: "Bob Kerslake has made an immense contribution to public life in both central and local government over many years. His vision, energy, and commitment were legendary. He was kind, astute and always measured and thoughtful in his approach.

"Here in Stockport, his chairing of our Mayoral Development Corporation was exemplary. With a contacts book second to none, Bob was a high profile and powerful ambassador for the transformation of our town centre and our ambitious regeneration programme. 

"Scrupulously fair, objective and always far-sighted, he made a massive difference and leaves a lasting legacy for us all. We will miss him terribly."

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