Authority’s senior boss leading the charge quits post
THE man charged with leading the city council’s programme to deliver the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham has quit his post to spend more time with his children.
Neil Carney, Birmingham City Council’s programme director for Birmingham 2022, has announced he is leaving the organisation to return to Ireland.
He is the most senior officer dedicated to the city council’s role in delivering the Commonwealth Games.
Under his leadership, the authority secured planning permission for the Commonwealth Games Village on the old Birmingham City University campus in Perry Barr.
Work to demolish Alexander Stadium
has also begun, with a planning application submitted for the council-led £72 million revamp of the venue in order for it to become the home of the athletics and opening and closing ceremonies.
During his tenure, Mr Carney also worked closely with the other partner organisations to ensure the council’s work, most notably on capital projects, has been integrated with the activities of others.
He said: “I was honoured to take on the role of programme director and it has been an absolute pleasure to work with dedicated and passionate colleagues during my time at the city council.
“However, my children are still based in Ireland and it has become increasingly difficult to balance work and time with my children.
“I thought it would be possible but unfortunately that is not the case.
“The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games will be a fantastic celebration of everything that is good about the city and I will definitely be watching from afar as the planning phases turns into delivery and the magnificent legacy the games will bring for Birmingham.”
The search for his replacement is now under way.
Clive Heaphy, acting chief executive of Birmingham City Council, added: “I am sorry to see Neil go. He brought a wealth of experience from previous sporting events and was a calm and reassuring influence at all times.
“His contribution to laying the foundations for a great Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games cannot be underestimated.
“I wish him and his children well in their future endeavours as he still has much to offer in the sport and events world.”