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London Assembly Member, Marina Ahmad AM, has motion agreed to save William Blake’s house for the Nation.

Saving William Blake's London house for the nation moved closer to a reality on 13/02/2025 when the London Assembly passed a motion to refer the project to the Duke of Westminster's Grosvenor Group Board, the Secretary of State for Heritage, and the Minister for Culture and Tourism. 

Labour Assembly Member, Marina Ahmad AM, said:

“Preserving our heritage is vital to our cultural identity, well-being, and economic growth. William Blake - renowned poet, artist, and visionary -lived and created some of his most influential works at 17 South Molton Street. Yet, this historic home is at risk of being lost.

We have a unique opportunity to transform Blake’s last remaining London residence into a world-class cultural and educational hub, honouring his legacy while boosting the local economy.

The homes of Mozart, Rembrandt, and Burns are thriving visitor attractions - let’s do the same with William Blake’s house. I am pleased that the motion has been agreed for the Mayor to meet with the William Blake Fellowship, engage with the Grosvenor Group, and rally key stakeholders to support this vision. Together we can secure Blake’s legacy for generations to come.”

The William Blake Fellowship is leading an international campaign to prevent 17 South Molton Street from being redeveloped into a luxury apartment by the Duke of Westminster's Grosvenor Group. 

Catherine Kelly Chair of the William Blake Fellowship said:

"William Blake and his wife Catherine lived at South Molton Street for 17 years at the height of his creative powers. It was here they produced his most iconic illustrated manuscripts now in 56 galleries and private collections around the world including Tate Britain, Victoria and Albert Museum and the US Library of Congress. The works produced there include ‘Jerusalem’ now regarded as Britain's unofficial national anthem."

The goal for the Visitor Centre is to be ready by 2027, marking the double anniversary of Blake's birth in 1757 and his death in 1827.

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Rachel Blake MP for London and Westminster cities:

The words and work of William Blake, and his wife Catherine, are an important part of the fabric of British cultural life. Blake’s words have been used to represent the Spirit of Britain on many occasions, not least as part of the opening ceremony for the London 2012 Olympic Games.  Jerusalem is sung in churches and stadiums across the country. His creative work  inspires other writers, composers and musicians.

So it is right that there should be a lasting monument to his legacy, a dedicated place for people to go and learn about the Blake’s and their work,  where they lived for 17years,  at South Molton Street.

Dan Cruickshank – British art historian and BBC television presenter, with a special interest in the history of architecture. 

William Blake was, among many things, a great Londoner - wise, compassionate and inspired in his observations about the city in which he was born, lived most of his life, and where he died. To open to the pubic one of the London homes in which he lived, to recreate it and present it as known by Blake and his wife Catherine, would not only help bring to life the work of one of the nation’s greatest visionary artists – but also offer a compelling portrait of 18th and early 19th century London.  The realization of such a project would be a cultural acquisition for the capital of international significance. 

Justine Simons - Deputy Mayor for London for Culture & the Creative Industries: 

“It is historic characters like William Blake who set us apart from other global cities and 

throughout England. These sites include properties of undoubted international significance, 

drive our tourism.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to preserve an asset at 17 South Molton Street where Blake once resided. Creating an international centre here will stand alongside other museums that celebrate the life and work of preeminent individuals like Handel House and Charles Dickens House. I would like to express my support for this endeavour and encourage all stakeholders to work together to fully explore its potential.”

Lord Vaizey of Didcot

“Recognition of William Blake and the unique value and vision this genius continues to bring to this nation and the world is long overdue. Therefore, I fully support your endeavours that this house should now become a cultural visitor centre for all to access and benefit from, now and in the future. 

As a former Arts and Cultural, and Heritage Minster I see this house is a hidden gem, a real treasure with immense value not only in raising the human condition but in contributing to our economy, our education, our health and wellbeing, our pride in our heritage and national identity.

There was no one like William Blake before or since. There is no centre dedicated to him anywhere in the world. His story is not being told. Now is the time…”

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Catherine Kelly - William Blake Fellowship

williamblakefellowship@mail.com

Maisie Post - Communications Officer, London Assembly Group

Not for publication:

Maisie.Post@london.gov.uk

LINKS:

WEBSITE

William Blake Fellowship

www.williamblakefellowship.com

FOLLOW US ON:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/williamblakefellowship/   

Facebook @blakefellowship

Instagram: @blakefellowship

Twitter: @blakefellowship

SUPPORT US:

House of William Blake:

https://www.williamblakefellowship.com/house-of-william-blake

Donate to WBF: https://www.williamblakefellowship.com/contact

SUPPORTERS INCLUDE:   City of Westminster, NWEC, English Heritage, Tate Britain, British Library, V&A, Museum of the Home, UNESCO, BMW Royal College of Music, UCL School of Architecture (UCL).  

PHOTOS:   Blake and his works:

https://www.blakearchive.org