A COMMEMORATIVE blue plaque scheme has been launched in Neath Port Talbot to celebrate notable people, places and events that have taken place across the county borough.
The decision was first approved by councillors at a cabinet meeting held on October 23, where members heard how the scheme was a key priority as part of the council’s Heritage Strategy that covers the period of 2024-2039.
It was launched in January of 2025, with a budget for two plaques each year being provided by the local authority as well as the option for local groups or individuals to fund a blue plaque for themselves.
The process can be done by submitting an online nomination to the Heritage NPT Team’s selection panel, with the with the panel’s recommendations then being reported to cabinet members before a final decision.
A council spokesperson said: “Blue plaques are a source of information, education and celebration, they will create opportunities for future activities such as blue plaque trails and QR code links to website stories of significant people, places and events in our shared history. They have the capacity to promote the heritage of each community with Neath Port Talbot.”
Once approved, specific plaques will be made by ceramicist Ned Heywood at his Chepstow studio, where he and his working partner Julia Land have become known for making the ceramic blue plaques for organisations like English Heritage, Historic England and more.
The submission window for the first council-funded applications will now be open from April 1 to September 30, 2025, while applications for self-funded plaques began on January 6.
You can find out more about the blue plaque scheme, as well as how to apply for a plaque at www.npt.gov.uk/business/regeneration/commemorative-blue-plaque-scheme/
