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Former Riverside chair dies

The former chair of national housing association Riverside has died at the age of 85.

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Deborah Shackleton with Professor John Tarn
Deborah Shackleton with Professor John Tarn
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The former chair of national housing association Riverside Professor John Tarn has died at the age of 85 #UKhousing

Professor John Tarn, who was on the association’s board for nearly two decades, passed away after a long-term illness, the association said.

After a distinguished career as professor of architecture at the University of Liverpool, and later pro-vice chancellor, he joined the board of Merseyside Improved Houses in 1992.

The association then became Riverside, with Professor Tarn becoming chair of Riverside Housing Association in 1998 and then chair of Riverside Group after it adopted a group structure in 2001.


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His time at Riverside saw a major expansion of the association. It branched out from its origins as a North West landlord to one with homes across England and even in Scotland.

It also diversified its services, developing a major care and support business while generating commercial income through a housebuilding subsidiary and joint ventures.

Paying tribute, Carol Matthews, group chief executive of Riverside, said: “John steered Riverside through an era of profound change while ensuring that the group never surrendered its principles. He continued to focus on the people and communities which need affordable housing, high-quality services and additional support to enable them to prosper. All these things are ingrained in our DNA.”

Former chief executive Deborah Shackleton said: “It is with great sadness that I learned of the death of my colleague, friend and mentor. John and I worked together during a time of rapid change and growth at Riverside. He was an extremely supportive chair, who had a sharp strategic mind and a gentle manner.

“He offered enthusiasm for new ideas, tempered by appropriate challenge. He encouraged debate amongst board members and was instrumental in fostering a culture of team spirit between executives and non-executive directors.

“He represented Riverside on the national stage, always in demand for his wise and considered views.”

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