Sir Simon Milton

Simon was known to all in Westminster as one of the most successful leaders the City has seen and was deeply respected for his fair and professional approach in steering the City Council into an exemplar of local government in the UK. Apart from regenerating the centre of London, he was almost singly responsible for a social revolution in Westminster through his One City vision which encompassed the many and diverse communities in his authority. This was exemplified in his approach to the poorer areas in the City where he spent more time in disdavantaged neighbourhoods talking face-to-face with residents and community organisations, than any previous Leader of the Council. He led on an educational regeneration in deprived areas of North Westminster creating and laying the foundations for three new comprehensive Academies. He was one of the first to see the value and common sense in tackling social and economic problems ‘on the doorstep’ rather than from a desk in City Hall, and was instrumental in developing a new way of neighbourhood working. In this he supported and encouraged community involvement and social enterprise as well as providing clear and

concise leadership to real partnership between Council and community.

As deputy Mayor of London he provided stability and support through his quiet inspiration and vision. He will be missed by all.