The Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee met on Monday 8 December 2025, approving proposals for new blue plaques and a significant change to the delivery model for the Sculpture in the City programme. The committee also received an update on the financial outturn forecast for the current year.

City Arts Initiative - Blue Plaques Approved

The committee approved the installation of two new blue plaques, commemorating Francis Barber and George Sandeman & Co. A proposal for a blue plaque to honour John Amos Comenius was rejected due to insufficient evidence of his presence in the City of London.

The blue plaque for Francis Barber will be installed at 17 Gough Square, EC4A 3DE, marking the residence of Dr. Samuel Johnson's former servant. Barber's life story is significant as one of the earliest documented examples of a formerly enslaved Black man achieving independence and literacy in 18th-century Britain. The application was made by Dr Johnson's House, and the plaque will be placed alongside the existing one for Dr. Johnson.

The second approved plaque will be located at 20 St Swithin's Lane, EC4N 8AD, to commemorate the opening of George Sandeman & Co.'s first London office in 1790. This firm was a pioneer in professionalising the wine import trade in Britain.

The application for John Amos Comenius was rejected because the London Archives could not verify a specific City of London address for his stay in 1640-41, nor the duration of his visit.

The committee also noted the importance of diversifying the range of blue plaques in the Square Mile to highlight broader stories, including those of women, BAME individuals, and the LGBTQ+ community, and agreed this would be a priority for the future blue plaque programme.

Sculpture in the City - Proposed Transfer to a Community Interest Company

A significant decision was made regarding the future of the Sculpture in the City (SITC) programme. The committee agreed in principle to transfer the ownership, management, and operational delivery of SITC to an external entity, likely a Community Interest Company (CIC). This move is intended to ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme, which is currently facing financial challenges under the City Corporation's existing model.

The report highlighted that keeping SITC in-house is financially unrealistic and risks partner withdrawal. Terminating the programme would result in the loss of a major cultural asset. Transferring SITC to a CIC or similar structure is seen as the best option to enable greater fundraising, operational flexibility, and continued oversight from the City Corporation.

Members expressed a desire for more detailed information on the mechanics of a CIC, its governance, and financial implications before a final decision is made. The committee emphasised the importance of ensuring appropriate governance and oversight for any new CIC, and requested further information on how the City Corporation could retain a degree of control over the quality of the artworks. The decision was deferred to allow for further clarity on these points.

Revenue Outturn Forecast as at Quarter 2 2025/26

The committee received an update on the projected financial outturn for the Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee as at Quarter 2 of the 2025/26 financial year. The report indicated a projected overspend of £143,000 on the local risk budget and £110,000 on the central risk budget.

The overspend on the local risk budget is attributed to unidentified savings and lower-than-targeted income, particularly concerning The Monument. The central risk budget overspend is primarily due to increased rents and rates at The London Archives. The committee noted the report and agreed to the projected outturn.

City Arts Initiative - Barbican Sculpture Court Installation

The committee considered a proposal for a temporary art installation at the Barbican Sculpture Court by Colombian artist Delcy Morelos. The artwork, made from soil and clay, is planned to be in situ from April to July 2026. Visitors will be invited to circulate within the ovular structure.

The proposal is funded in part by the Barbican Art Gallery's annual budget and private donations. It will undergo review by City of London Planning, Corporate Health and Safety, and the District Surveyor. The Barbican Centre will be responsible for the maintenance of the sculpture. The City Arts Initiative (CAI) panel recommended approval of the project, subject to planning permission and the incorporation of recommendations regarding community engagement, wayfinding, and accessibility. The decision was to be made via delegated authority between the Town Clerk and the Chairs of the relevant committees.