Tony Crook CBE

Tony Crook, CBE, FAcSS, FRTPI, FRSA, (1944-2024) was Emeritus Professor of Town & Regional Planning and the former Senior Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University during which time for nine years he was responsible for academic planning, HR and capital projects.

Over four decades he led a large research programme on the supply side of the private rented housing sector and the use of the planning obligations to secure affordable housing. His work had received research grants of over £3m and he had over 150 publications including books, research reports, journal articles and other output. His latest book, co-authored with Professor Peter Kemp, ‘Private Rented Housing: Comparative Perspectives’, was published in 2014.

Tony had a celebrated career, including being appointed CBE in the 2014 New Year's Honours List for services to housing and the governance of charities.

In 2001, Tony was elected a Fellow of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) in recognition of his distinguished contribution to planning research.

In 2004 he was elected as a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences in recognition of his standing as a social scientist and contribution to public policy. This was followed with a Distinguished Service Award in 2021 from RTPI.

His work on land value taxation over two decades, which involved regular research commissions from the government to analyse policy impact, has had a significant impact on public funding decisions.

Tony also leaves a lasting legacy having supported The Crook Public Service Fellowships to provide opportunities for future leaders in public and not-for-profit sectors.