Last year, the Parish Council launched a public nominations scheme for the introduction of blue plaques to commemorate important people, buildings and events in the parish.
Since then, 5 blue plaques have been delivered as follows:
• The pioneering female photographer Daisy Edis – 142 Gilesgate
• The location of the former organ builders Harrison & Harrison – Harrison House
• The Market Hall – outside the Indoor Market Hall
• The three first female graduates of Durham University Mary Gibson, Dora Heslop and Winifred Hindmarch – St. Hild and St. Bede’s College
• The Railway Cottages – Railway Cottages
The Parish Council is also delighted to have recently agreed a further two plaques for the City – those for 20 Allergate in Durham City and Neville House.
This scheme is based loosely on the English Heritage scheme for blue plaques in London and has been delivered in other local areas outside London by various Parish and Town Councils. Launching such a scheme would be an encouragement for residents to celebrate their heritage and an opportunity to engender Civic Pride.
Chair of the Parish Council’s Environment Committee, Coun. Carole Lattin said: “We are absolutely delighted to be celebrating our rich heritage in this way. From celebrating the first female graduates of our world-renowned University to our historic Market Hall and more. I am thrilled that local residents have taken such an active role in nominating these historic places and people of significance. It really does highlight how lucky we are in Durham to have so much to celebrate.”
In launching the initial scheme, the Parish Council agreed the following criteria:
CRITERIA FOR GRANTING HERITAGE PLAQUES
1 In the case of a single person
1.1 If the person was eminent in his or her field and is listed in appropriate general national biographical sources for the period; for instance, the Dictionary/New Dictionary of National Biography, Who’s Who/Who Was Who, Men and Women of the Time, the Times Obituary, or recognised specialist biographical sources, and had a significant connection with one or more places in the City of Durham Parish area, such as a residence of five years, place of birth, place of business etc., OR
1.2 if the person made a definite contribution to the history of Durham City, does not appear in the relevant national sources but had a significant connection with one or more places in Durham City, such as a residence of five years, place of birth, place of business etc.
Please note: Proposals will not be considered for the commemoration of individuals unless more than 20 years has elapsed since their passing.
2 In the case of an event
If it was of considerable importance in the history or development of the City.
3 In the case of a building
If, unconnected with an important person, the building was significant in the history or development of Durham City, or is of great antiquity, or of particular architectural importance.