Tribute to Malcolm Tait, 1972 - 2026

When I was 15 I decided I wanted to leave London, move to Sheffield, and study planning - to make a difference for places and communities. I was nervous, naive, young and in a new city where I knew no one. I had no idea what to expect. My first ever interview was with Malcolm. He instantly put me at ease and made me feel like I was on the right track. He asked me why I was interested in the planning course at the University of Sheffield and he listened to what I had to say. He offered me a place on the course, and later put me forward for a bursary so I could continue my studies and gain my Masters. Throughout my studies Malcolm lifted my confidence and gently challenged me to reflect on my ideas and approach. When I graduated he supported my career choices and kept in touch, checking in and always curious. I was so pleased to catch up with Malcolm just a few weeks ago at an RTPI partnership meeting, 25 years after the start of my studies. It was wonderful to see him championing his students and colleagues, and speaking with passion about their work and achievements. Malcolm was always interested and interesting, supportive, kind and inspirational. He shaped the lives and careers of so many people, mine included. He will be deeply missed.

It was a privilege to work with Malcolm, whose support, knowledge and human insight was hugely valued when we collaborated on the DWELL research project.

With love and sympathy

Thank you, Malcom. your work was inspiring.

Malcolm was a wonderful colleague - kind, calm and incredibly supportive. My thoughts and best wishes go to his friends and family.

With love

As friends of the family, we’ve known Malcolm since he was a baby. We’ve kept in touch with him over the years and were shocked and saddened by his unexpected passing away. We’re pleased to donate to Butterfly Conservation in remembrance of him.

Thank you for everything, Malcolm x

A wonderful tribute for a much loved man, who clearly touched many lives and achieved such a lot in his lifetime. Lots of love to Kiera and all the family. x

Malcolm - mentor, advocate and all round decent bloke.

A joy to collaborate with and share a love of research and butterflies 🦋🦋

A constant and a guide for me and so many. Very much missed.

Malcolm was not only an academic mentor on my PhD journey but also an invaluable source of support during my early time studying abroad. Throughout my doctoral studies, he offered me understanding, patient guidance, and generous help. I will always feel deeply grateful and honoured to have been his student. His teaching, kindness, and warmth will always remain with me. May he rest in peace.

Malcolm, may you live on always in the butterflies you so loved. I will now always think of you when I see them.

Thank you Malcolm for being such a knowledgeable and compassionate teacher for me and all the other planning students at Sheffield.

I can’t be more grateful to have had Malcolm as my supervisor. You are always my role model as a genuinely kind and inspiring human being. Thank you for your support throughout. You’ll be deeply missed. Your spirit lives on.

In memory of Malcolm, so kind and supportive as a mentor to students and planning colleagues in academia and in practice.

Malcolm was such an inspiring and caring supervisor for me. His thoughtful approach to care places, nature and people advocates for the goodness of life. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In memory of a sweet, lovely man.

Remembering Malcolm as a kind, thoughtful, insightful and brilliant person who will be much missed.

To Malcolm, our paths crossed briefly but you made a positive and lasting impression. An inspiration to keep working for better things.