A Tribute to Joe Holyoak

It was with deepest sadness that the Trustees of Chamberlain Highbury Trust received the news of the death of Joe Holyoak.

As an architect, urban designer, conservationist, teacher, writer and campaigner, Joe contributed so much good to Birmingham and indeed the wider world. He had an assured feel for the built and natural environments that shape our lives and never lost his enthusiasm for serving people faithfully and sustainably.

Others appreciated and enjoyed – as we did – Joe’s knowledge, humour and humanity.

Joe’s direct association with Highbury spanned decades and we Trustees have always appreciated his gentle prompting and advice as we have sought to ingrain sustainability in everything we do.

When we were preparing our application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for a delivery grant towards a full restoration of Highbury’s gardens and mansion, Joe generously gave of his time to serve on our advisory groups and attend consultative meetings with our neighbours and local communities.

We will all, staff members and volunteers alike, miss Joe and he will live on in the contributions he made at Highbury and in our memory.