Few of us can say that we have made a difference or made the world a better place, but we can say that of our friend and colleague Jo Patton.
Jo was an inspiration to all who knew or worked with her – a woman of good judgement, a genuine role model, a joyful spirit and a friend to many.
Even as an undergraduate at Edinburgh College of Art Jo knew her own mind and behind her relaxed easy nature there was a steely determination and a strong work ethic. Traits that would serve her well.
In a career that involved working in the US and across the UK, Jo demonstrated an extraordinary mastery of our profession from strategic thinking, professional judgement in assessment through to sensitive design and delivery – she was an unusually gifted professional who could turn her hand to anything.
Jo worked on many noteworthy projects. At LDA Design she was part of the Olympic delivery team and the public inquiry team for Center Parcs, as well as masterplanning for Sizewell C and the New Museums site at Cambridge University. She also contributed to the UK’s early drive into renewable energy. At WSP Jo continued to focus on energy and renewables, involved in both on and offshore windfarms and transmission networks across the UK, as well as new hydrogen networks and carbon capture, amongst other things. A final high point, of which she was deservedly proud, was co-authoring the Third Edition of the indispensable Landscape Architect’s Pocket Book.
As if this was not enough, Jo was also a committed leader for WSP’s Scottish team, growing and nurturing a close-knit team in Scotland. She had an astonishing capacity for work but never faltered in her commitment to her team.
Jo brought her personal qualities to every area of her professional life and will be greatly missed.
Our thoughts are with Jo’s husband, her two children and her family.
(Joanna Patton (Nee Ratcliffe) born 14th January 1981, died 07th September 2023)
Jo’s wish was for donations to be made to the Beatson Cancer Charity and with the support of her family a memorial grove is being planted in her memory through Trees for Life, a charity working to rewild the Scottish Highlands, befitting of her love of nature.
Donations can be made at:
www.treesforlife.org.uk/groves/467943/ / www.beatsoncancercharity.org/donate/
