Tributes have been paid following the death of Councillor Stuart Parker MBE, a long-serving local representative whose legacy includes bringing Storyhouse to life.

Councillor Parker passed away on Sunday 5 April 2026, with leaders and colleagues across Cheshire paying tribute his nearly two decades of public service.

Having served on Cheshire West and Chester Council since its inception in 2008, the Conservative councillor initially represented the Gowy ward until 2011.

He went on to represent Chester Villages until 2019, before being re-elected to Christleton and Huntington in 2019 and 2023 following boundary changes.

During his time on the council, he served on the executive from 2009 to 2015 and was awarded an MBE as part of the Queen's Jubilee Honours in 2022, recognising his long-standing impact on local politics and his role in bringing Storyhouse to life - one of his proudest legacies.

Having served proudly alongside his wife, Councillor Margaret Parker, Cllr Stuart Parker will be remembered for his legacy of hard work.

Describing him as "one of a kind", Conservative group leader, Cllr Adrian Waddelove, said: "Stuart was a deeply valued member of our team and has served our area proudly for decades, something which was clearly reflected as he received an MBE from the late Queen for his role in making Storyhouse what it is today. 

"Our deepest condolences and thoughts go to Cllr Margaret Parker, their family and friend. He was always incredibly gentle and welcoming. Even as his health declined which meant he had to step back a little, I used to enjoy our regular catch-ups.

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"He will be a huge loss to our community in Cheshire and whomever fills his seat, will have very big boots to fill. May he rest in peace." 

Cllr Simon Eardley, CWAC Conservative deputy leader and current Sheriff of the City of Chester, also paid tribute to Cllr Parker, describing him as a "dedicated and honourable public servant".

He added: "For many years, he served rural communities in Chester and Cheshire with distinction and quiet determination to achieve the best possible outcomes for them at all times.

"His legacy for Chester will be permanently felt with the significant and transformative project for which he will long be associated, that of Storyhouse.

"His sense of public service was exemplified when he was appointed to be the 1365th Sheriff of the City of Chester; an office he was proud to hold, and which allowed him the opportunity to serve a wider community in the oldest civic role that Chester retains.

"I will remember him with the greatest affection as a thoughtful colleague and a loyal friend. May he rest in peace."

As a mark of respect, Cheshire West and Chester Council's house flag will be lowered on council buildings, a candle lit at Chester Town Hall and a condolence book is being arranged for residents to pay tribute. 

Further details of arrangements for a funeral, tributes and a condolence book will be provided in due course.

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