Westminster’s Green Plaque Scheme, launched in 1991, is a vibrant tribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the city and the remarkable individuals who have shaped its history. This program honors buildings deeply connected to people of renown who have made lasting contributions to society.
The scheme is a celebration of Westminster’s heritage, highlighting the diverse array of individuals and events that have defined its character. It serves as a tangible reminder of the remarkable individuals who have lived, worked, and left their mark on this iconic city.
Criteria for Nomination
Nominations for new green plaques are meticulously reviewed by an independent advisory panel to ensure that each selection meets specific criteria. These criteria are designed to ensure that only the most deserving individuals and buildings are recognized.
To be considered, nominees must be:
- Eminent in their field, recognized by their peers for their achievements.
- Deserving recognition for their significant contributions to society, improving the lives of others.
- Reasonably well-known to the public.
- Their lasting contribution to society must be demonstrably clear, with sufficient time elapsed since their lifetime.
Furthermore, buildings of historical interest, those that form a significant part of the city’s heritage, are also eligible for recognition. However, there are specific requirements for these nominations:
- A historical or cultural event of exceptional significance must have occurred within the nominated building.
- Nominations based solely on anniversaries or brief visits by public figures will not be considered.
- For commercial establishments, such as shops, restaurants, and organizations, they must have existed for at least 100 years to be considered.
The Nomination Process
Before submitting your nomination, it’s crucial to secure sponsorship of £3,500 plus VAT. This contribution helps cover the administrative costs associated with the scheme. Once sponsorship is in place, you can submit your nomination using the provided form.
The nomination process involves several steps:
- Your nomination will be reviewed for completeness and clarity and any additional information will be requested.
- The advisory panel will assess your nomination against the criteria, ensuring it meets the scheme’s standards.
- Decisions on which nominations are taken forward are made during meetings held in July and January. Please keep these deadlines in mind when submitting your nomination.
- Permission to install the plaque will be sought from the building owner, and listed building consent will be obtained, if necessary. Securing building owner permission beforehand can expedite the process.
- The plaque wording will be carefully crafted, with a maximum word count of 25 words to ensure legibility. A consistent layout template is used for all plaques, maintaining a visually cohesive look across the city.
- Your nomination will be shared with ward councillors, and a comprehensive report will be prepared for formal approval by Cabinet Members.
- Following approval, the plaque will be manufactured and installed.
Ceremony and Unveiling
If you wish to organize an unveiling ceremony for your plaque, Westminster can provide an unveiling stand and curtain to enhance the occasion. However, you will be responsible for organizing and covering the cost of the ceremony and any associated reception.
Westminster Green Plaques: Celebrating Local History
The Green Plaque Scheme has played a pivotal role in preserving and showcasing the history of Westminster. It is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and the individuals who have shaped its identity. By recognizing these individuals and buildings, the Green Plaque Scheme ensures that Westminster’s fascinating past is acknowledged and celebrated for generations to come.
Recent Green Plaque Unveiling
Here are some recent additions to Westminster’s Green Plaque Scheme:
- SeeWoo Asian Supermarket (24 May 2024): A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the founder of the SeeWoo Asian supermarket, a pioneer in bringing Chinese ingredients to London’s restaurants and dinner tables.
- Sir Leslie Martin (1 September 2023): A plaque was unveiled in honor of the renowned architect, credited with bridging the gap in art and architecture between traditionalists and modernists.
- The Royal Dental Hospital (29 March 2023): A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the oldest dental school in the UK, which played a critical role in regulating and improving standards of dental care.
- Rev Dr John Clifford (11 September 2022): A plaque was unveiled in honor of the world-renowned social reformer and leader of the Baptist Church, who made significant contributions to education and social reform.
- Windrush Day (22 June 2021): A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the arrival of Caribbean Citizens into Westminster and beyond, who helped rebuild war-torn Britain.
- James F Tait, Sylvia A Simpson and Hilary M Grundy (20 October 2020): A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the discovery of the hormone Aldosterone.
- Westminster Hospital (10 February 2020): A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the first hospital in the world funded by charitable giving.
- Sir John Soane’s Museum (8 February 2020): A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the iconic architect and his museum.
- Carnaby Street (4 December 2019): A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the iconic Carnaby Street, a hub of fashion and counterculture in the 1960s.
- Watergate House (14 February 2019): A plaque was unveiled to commemorate the historic Watergate House, a building with a rich history dating back to the 17th century.
- Orchard Court (19 December 2017): A plaque was unveiled to commemorate Orchard Court, a building with a unique architectural history.
For a comprehensive list of all green plaques in Westminster, please visit [Link to website]. To learn more about blue plaques in London, please contact English Heritage. This is a separate scheme with different criteria.
For more information about the Green Plaque scheme in Westminster, please email [email protected].
