Patsy Healey Obituary

Patsy Healey was professor emeritus in the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape at Newcastle University. She joined the University in 1988 as the third Chair of Town Planning, having previously held posts at Oxford Brook University. She led the then Department of Town Planning through a transformative period, and significantly enhanced its international reputation. As a founding member and former president of the Association of European Schools of Planning, Patsy went onto become a leading figure in the world of planning education and research. Her work and innovative ideas helped influence policy and planning practices, and demonstrated her commitment and dedication to shaping cities and building communities. This is aptly illustrated in her final book “Caring for Place – Community Development in Rural England” (2023).  

Patsy’s contributions to planning theory, education and practice are internationally recognised as reflected in her various accolades. She was a fellow of University College London and Honorary Fellow of the Association of European Schools of Planning, and held an Honorary Degree from Chalmers University in Gothenburg, Sweden. In 1999 she was awarded an OBE for Services to Planning, and in 2006 the highly prestigious Royal Town Planning Institute Gold Medal. In 2009, she was made a Fellow of the British Academy. In addition to her academic achievements, Patsy has made major contributions to her local community in her capacity as Chair of the Glendale Community Trust in Northumberland, always championing the ethos of the collective and the power of local civil society initiatives.

A truly remarkable academic, Patsy is held in great affection by her colleagues, former students and peers. Her generosity, kindness and care for others were second to none. Patsy has inspired a community of planners in the UK, and beyond, and she will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of planners through the legacy of intellectual contributions that she leaves behind. She will be greatly missed.

An online Book of Remembrance is available for anyone who wishes to leave a message.