Councillors on both sides of the political spectrum have paid tribute to their colleague Chris Bond, who died last week.

Cllr Bond, who represented Southbury ward for Labour, passed away on Friday (July 17).

He was a councillor in Enfield for more than 34 years, and his roles on the council included cabinet member for environment and chairman of the licensing committee.

Council leader Cllr Nesil Caliskan said: “We are extremely sad to hear of the death of Cllr Chris Bond.

“Chris was a committed and passionate councillor who represented the residents of Enfield for over 30 years with the utmost dedication.

“In his capacity as cabinet member for environment, he was a passionate advocate of our wonderful parks and open spaces and helped to deliver some major transformational projects. He was committed to climate action and creating a more sustainable Enfield, with many of his sustainability projects gaining national recognition.

“Chris was Labour through and through and a proud trade unionist. He will be much missed by his fellow councillors, council staff and residents. We send our deepest condolences to all those who loved him.”

Cllr Bond lived in the borough for most of his life, first in Edmonton and later in the Enfield town area. He attended St Edmund’s School in Bounces Road before going to St Ignatius’ College at Stamford Hill and then at Turkey Street.

He joined the Post Office in 1968 before its telecommunications arm became British Telecom, where he continued working until 2000. He joined the Communication Workers Union in 1968, the Labour Party in 1974 and the Co-operative Party in 1979.

During his time on the council, he represented Enfield lock, Ponders End and Southbury Ward. In his role as cabinet member for environment, he was instrumental in the early stages of the Cycle Enfield scheme and a promotor of sustainability and active travel in Enfield.

Cllr Bond had a broad range of interests and worked closely on community safety and with the police, and on youth and the arts. Outside of his work on the council, he enjoyed cricket, rugby, travelling and music.

Politicians paid tribute to Cllr Bond on Twitter. Deputy leader Cllr Ian Barnes said: “Cllr Chris Bond was huge figure in Enfield. As the leader says, he was passionate about supporting all residents of our borough.

“His vast experience and sense of humour will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”

MP for Enfield Southgate Bambos Charalambous said: “Very sad to hear of the death of Cllr Chris Bond. He was a friend and colleague for over 20 years. His 34 years of public service for Enfield Council was immense. His sound judgment and advice were invaluable. His friendship and kindness will always be remembered. RIP Chris.”

Conservative leader Cllr Joanne Laban said: “I was so sorry to hear of the death of Cllr Chris Bond. He did not share my politics, but I liked and respected him immensely. Chris was someone anyone could get on with. He certainly made me laugh, and at Enfield Council you certainly need to laugh at times. My condolences to his family.”

Cllr Mike Rye OBE, Conservative councillor for Town ward, added: “Very sorry to learn of the death of Cllr Chris Bond, a great servant of Enfield he will be much missed, may he RIP.”