John Hansen (1918-2009)

The Society was saddened to learn of the death of John Hansen, one of our founder members. Although always sympathetic to the aims and work of the Society, his active participation would have been difficult in his profession because he was Chief Planning Officer for East Suffolk. Clifford Smith, former Chief Executive of the County and a friend for over fifty years, paid tribute to John's integrity, flair and knowledge. He estimated that John had overseen 30,000 planning applications in his career, including the responsibilities involved in the huge implications of Sizewell power station, Felixstowe Dock expansion and BT at Martlesham, as well as helping to preserve the heritage of Wood bridge and Framlingham. John was a dedicated sailor but he loved living in Ipswich, being amongst people in the town.