Bob Towner, ex-housing director for York, dies at 81. Remembered for housing reforms and tenant empowerment.
After serving as a councillor, Bob transitioned to private housing and moved to York in 1985. He became City of York Council’s director of housing. His wife, Fiona Samuel, noted that he implemented rapid changes, using skills gained from the private sector.
Fiona, who was a housing warden at the time, said one of Bob’s early achievements was the Peasholme Centre. This was the first homeless service specifically for women. Fiona and Bob later married in Pocklington and lived in Middlethorpe Drivebefore moving to Acomb. Bob had two sons, Chris and Ian, with his first wife, Lesley Francis.
Fiona emphasized how much Bob adored his kids and always made time for them. He earned praise for redevelopment projects in York, including City Mills, Honeysuckle House, and Bell Farm.
Fiona explained that Bob introduced a “tenants’ choice” system where tenants scheduled their own appointments. The council no longer simply showed up unannounced. Bob believed that people should have a say because it was their home, even if the council owned it.
He also introduced the tenants’ charter, setting minimum standards for the council to adhere to. Fiona mentioned that other councils later adopted these ideas. Sir Hugh Bayley, MP, a close acquaintance of Bob, said Bob improved housing for families.
Bayley added that with Bob’s system, tenants chose their home updates and selected builders from a local list. This improved tenant satisfaction, leading other councils to adopt the practice. Despite budget limitations, Bob focused on building new homes, especially housing for older people. Bayley considers Bob an important reformer.
Ian Floyd, from York Council, expressed his appreciation for Bob’s service. He stated that Bob’s ideas continue to shape their current practices, and added that Bob will be missed.
Fiona shared that Bob lived life to the fullest and disliked those who claimed they couldn’t take action, saying it was a challenge to keep up with his energy.
He retired in 2000 but remained active, serving on several boards, including the Primary Care Trust and York Hospital. He also chaired the York Older People’s Assembly, and worked with York Housing Association.
Fiona concluded that Bob firmly believed everyone deserved choice. His motto was “action affords the right to criticize,” emphasizing his dislike for complaining without taking action. Bob was a staunch believer in taking initiative.