Do you know someone who has made a lasting impact on Westminster or the world? Perhaps a local hero, a groundbreaking scientist, or a pivotal figure in the city’s development? If so, you might consider nominating them for a Westminster Green Plaque. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals and historical events that have shaped the vibrant cultural landscape of Westminster.
It’s an exciting way to honor the remarkable people and places that have made this city so unique!
Who Can Be Nominated?
The Westminster Green Plaque scheme, launched in 1991, is dedicated to celebrating the rich tapestry of Westminster’s history. We seek to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s cultural heritage.
- Nominations are open to individuals who are widely recognized in their field, have made a positive impact on society, and whose legacy continues to inspire.
- The scheme also acknowledges buildings that have witnessed significant historical events, contributing to the city’s unique identity.
Eligibility Criteria and Nomination Process
There are specific criteria that must be met for an individual or building to be considered for a green plaque. To make the nomination process as smooth as possible, we’ve compiled a list of key points to keep in mind:
Nominations for Individuals:
- Eminence: The nominee must be recognized as a leader in their field.
- Impact: Their work should demonstrate a genuine contribution to society, improving lives or fostering positive change.
- Recognition: The nominee should be relatively well-known and their impact should be evident.
- Time: There should be sufficient time elapsed since their life to demonstrate the lasting impact of their contribution.
Nominations for Buildings:
- Significance: The nominated building must have witnessed a historical or cultural event of great importance.
- Focus: Nominations based solely on anniversaries or short stays from public figures will not be considered.
- Duration: Shops, restaurants, and organizations must have operated for at least 100 years to be eligible for a green plaque.
Submitting Your Nomination:
- Sponsorship: Please secure sponsorship of £3,500 plus VAT before submitting your nomination. This fee helps cover the administrative costs of the scheme.
- Nomination Form: Submit your nomination using the provided form.
- Clarification: We will contact you to clarify any necessary information.
- Advisory Panel: Your nomination will be reviewed by an independent advisory panel based on the established criteria.
- Decision Meetings: The advisory panel will meet in July and January to decide which nominations will be moved forward. Please factor these timings into your application.
- Building Owner Permission: We will contact the building owner to obtain permission for the green plaque installation and to apply for listed building consent, if necessary. It’s helpful to secure building owner permission beforehand if you have a specific timeframe in mind. Please note that green plaques cannot be installed on buildings owned by Grosvenor.
Creating the Plaque and Unveiling Ceremony
The green plaque process aims to be as inclusive and transparent as possible:
- Plaque Wording: The wording of the plaque will be agreed upon, with a maximum word count of 25 words for legibility, or less if the plaque is installed at a higher elevation. A standardized layout template ensures consistency and readability across all plaques.
- Logos: While logos are typically not included to preserve legibility, space is available for the sponsor’s name at the bottom of the plaque.
- Ward Councillors and Cabinet Approval: Your nomination will be shared with ward councillors and a full report will be prepared for formal approval by Cabinet Members.
- Plaque Creation and Installation: Once approved, your plaque will be manufactured and installed.
- Unveiling Ceremony: If you wish to organize an unveiling ceremony, we can provide an unveiling stand and curtain and assist with logistical arrangements. Please note that you are responsible for organizing and covering the cost of the ceremony and reception, including any necessary microphones and speakers.
Examples of Westminster Green Plaques
The Westminster Green Plaque scheme has already honored a range of remarkable individuals and events, contributing to a rich tapestry of local history. Here are a few examples:
- SeeWoo Asian Supermarket: A plaque was unveiled in May 2024 commemorating the founder of the SeeWoo Asian supermarket, a pioneer in bringing Chinese ingredients to London’s restaurants and dinner tables. His dedication to bringing Chinese culture to Westminster has played a significant role in shaping the area into the vibrant cultural hub it is today.
- Sir Basil Spence: In September 2023, a plaque was installed to honor Sir Basil Spence, a renowned architect with deep ties to Westminster. His legacy lies in bridging the gap between traditional and modern architecture, particularly as Director of Architecture for the Festival of Britain in 1951.
- Royal Dental Hospital: A plaque was unveiled in March 2023 to celebrate the oldest dental school in the UK, founded in 1858. This plaque commemorates the significant impact the institution has had on the field of dentistry and the standards of dental care.
- Rev Dr John Clifford: In September 2022, a plaque was erected to commemorate Rev Dr John Clifford, a renowned social reformer and leader of the Baptist Church. His work as a minister, a political figure, and a champion of adult education has left a lasting impact on Westminster and beyond.
- Windrush Day Plaque: Unveiled in June 2021, this plaque marks the arrival of Caribbean citizens who came to Britain after World War II to help rebuild the nation. It serves as a powerful reminder of their contributions to the city’s social fabric and multicultural diversity.
Learn More and Get Involved
The Westminster Green Plaque scheme is a powerful way to celebrate and preserve the city’s rich history. If you have a nomination in mind, we encourage you to learn more and get involved!
- To view all the green plaques in Westminster, visit [link to the website].
- For more information about the scheme, please contact [email protected].
Remember, every story matters. Help us tell the stories of Westminster’s remarkable people and places through the Westminster Green Plaque scheme!
