Agenda item

Chris Bonner

The Committee heard a verbal update on the City’s blue plaques, that included the following information:

-        The blue plaque scheme has been under-resourced during the last decade;

-        A backlog of plaques is being cleared, with about five remaining to be handled;

-        The scheme is to be rebooted around a nominations process that is inclusive and transparent;

-        Recruitment is under way for a Head of Heritage Estate; and

-        The rebooted scheme is expected to be launched during 2026, ideally in time for the February 2026 Committee event.

A Member commented that the scheme appeared to be reactive and that the City does not appear to propose names. The meeting heard that a rebooted scheme is likely to be more proactive.

A Member asked for more information on anticipated fees, and what financial help might be available. The meeting heard that a plaque costs £1500 to make (installation costs vary) and that the plans include a facility for the City to fund one plaque per year.

A Member asked when the backlog of five plaques would be cleared. The meeting heard that each application takes 3-5 months to process given the requirements to liaise with developers, manufacturers and other stakeholders and that the process is expected to accelerate with the appointment of the Head of Heritage Estate.