Top culture official steps down

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Liverpool Culture Company's chief executive is stepping down from his job - just a month into celebrations for the European Capital of Culture year.

Jason Harborow told the council his position had become untenable after of remarks by top councillors about the Mathew Street Festival fiasco.

It is thought Mr Harborow is now in line for a £230,000 payout.

Liverpool City Council said he would be remembered for his enthusiasm and ability to engage top level support.

A leaked email last year revealed that council leader Warren Bradley demanded the suspension of Mr Harborow until the conclusion of an independent inquiry into cancellation of the Mathew Street festival.

The outdoor stages at the international music event were cancelled just weeks before due to health and safety concerns.

An independent inquiry later blamed poor communications for the cancellation and found two other top officials were to blame.

2008 will be the beginning of the future for Liverpool - I am grateful that I was able to play a role in that Jason Harborow

Mr Harborow later took sick leave for about three months.

But despite the previous bad feeling he said he felt his job was done.

"I have fulfilled my pledge to the people of Liverpool. My job is done, and it is time now for a new challenge.

"It has been a tremendous challenge but we are there - 2008 will be the beginning of the future for Liverpool. I am grateful that I was able to play a role in that."

Colin Hilton, Chief Executive of Liverpool City Council, said: "Jason has made a huge contribution to the city over the last four years in leading the team that has developed such a strong programme for 2008.

"He brought flair and a commercial edge to our work and will always be remembered for his enthusiasm and ability to engage the support of the most top level people across sport, government, the arts and other institutions."

Chris Donaldson has been working as the interim chief executive over the past few months to cover a period of sick leave taken by Mr Harborow.

A recommendation will be put to the council's appointment panel tomorrow to ensure Mr Donaldson can continue in the job.