THE chief executive of Warrington Borough Council says he is proud to have been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list.

Professor Steven Broomhead’s name was listed among others deserving of recognition for their contribution to society following the publication of the full honours list.

The award comes following his leadership and chairmanship of the National Libraries Taskforce, in which he helped to implement the Independent Library Report and reinvigorate the national public library service.

As chair of the taskforce since September 2018, he has provided valuable insight and guidance for creating sustainable library services across the country, ensuring that the sector has the insight, expertise and support it needs to develop.

Warrington Guardian:

Prof. Broomhead was previously chair of Warrington’s Libraries Working group, which formed to review the results of consultations over the borough’s provision.

The group implemented its plan for the future of Warrington’s libraries, which led to new investment and innovative approaches for the town’s library service.

On receiving the honour, Prof. Broomhead said: “It is an honour to be awarded an MBE, and I am proud to be recognised for my contributions to ensuring that our libraries continue to prosper.

“It is particularly fitting at the end of National Libraries Week that I receive this recognition.

“I was delighted to take up the role of chair on the National Libraries Taskforce in 2018 and have enjoyed sharing ideas and providing support to help promote the strong merits of public libraries and how they are valuable community assets that need to be cherished.

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“I have dedicated the majority of my professional career to education, community development and public service, so to be awarded an MBE for my work with the Libraries Taskforce – where these great professional passions have combined – is a very significant moment for me.”

From 2003 to 2011, Prof. Broomhead was chief executive of the North West Development Agency with a budget of £1 billion per year, and was responsible for the economic development and regeneration of the North West. Major projects included Media City UK, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Capital of Culture 2008 and the regeneration of Barrow in Furness.

He is also the non-executive vice chairman of Warrington Wolves, having been its chairman from 2009 to 2018, and is a trustee of the National Football Museum.