Green Plaques

 
 

Green Plaques Scheme

Westminster is rich in its heritage of buildings and the people who have lived and worked here. The Westminster Green Plaques Scheme celebrates the remarkable endeavours of some of its former residents.

Launched in 1991 the plaques draw attention to particular buildings in Westminster associated with people of renown who have made lasting contributions to society.

Who qualifies for a plaque?

The Green Plaques Scheme commemorates people who:

  • Are regarded as eminent by most members of their profession or calling;
  • Have genuinely contributed to human welfare or happiness and deserve recognition for it;
  • Are reasonably well known;
  • Sufficient time has elapsed since their life to show their lasting contribution to society.

Sometimes the building itself may be commemorated for its own significance. Plaques may occasionally be placed on “the site of” a building which no longer exists, if the owner agrees and if there is a suitable position on the building for the plaque to be displayed.

How do I propose someone for a plaque?

Contact Gillian Dawson, Manager of the Green Plaques Scheme with your suggestion.

tel : 0207 6412457
online : The Green Plaques Team
fax : 0207-6413050

Start by supplying us with some historical information which shows the importance of the person you wish to nominate, and how they were associated with Westminster. Discuss the wording you have in mind for the plaque with Gillian, who will arrange for a design to be prepared and costed. She will seek the approval of the building owners/occupiers and will require a written offer of sponsorship for the plaque and a reception after an unveiling ceremony. When all consents and sponsorship are in place, she will write a report to Committee recommending approval for the plaque. This may take a few weeks. Once approval is given by Committee, the plaque can be ordered and plans can begin for an unveiling ceremony.

Would you like to sponsor a commemorative green plaque?

Contact Gillian Dawson for information.

Are you interested in sponsorship opportunities in Westminster?

Write to Policy and Communications, Chief Executive's Dept, 18th Floor City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, LONDON SW1E 6QP

The first 43 plaques have been made by the Royal Label Factory. New plaques will be made by Leander Architectural Ltd, Fletcher Foundry, Hallstead Close, Dove Holes, BUXTON, Derbyshire SK17 8BP. Tel 01298 814941. Fax 01298 814970. Email sales@leanderarch.demon.co.uk  web site www.leanderarch.demon.co.uk

The Green Plaques Scheme is managed by Westminster City Council and is exclusively for commemorating people and buildings in Westminster.

If you want to learn more about the Blue Plaques in London, you need to contact English Heritage, because this is a separate scheme with different criteria.