Blue plaque unveiled to celebrate Chelmsford architect

A blue plaque in honour of prolific Essex architect Charles Pertwee (1833-1905), has been unveiled at the Cemetery Lodge on Writtle Road by the Mayor of Chelmsford, Jude Deakin.

Charles Pertwee (born 1833), a local architect, was responsible for the design of Cemetery Lodge and the laying out of the cemetery, built between 1885-1886. In addition to this, he also designed many well-known buildings within the city, including several on New London Road; the Essex and Chelmsford Infirmary, Oaklands House, The White House and numbers 180-188, the Co-Operative building on Wells Street and part of the former National School on Moulsham Street. He was also well known for his non-conformist chapels across Essex, including Christ Church; Stock, and more.

In 1865, Charles became the surveyor to the Local Board of Health, and remained there until 1890.

Charles died in 1905 and is buried in the Non-Conformist Cemetery on New London Road.

Councillor Jude Deakin, the Mayor of Chelmsford said, "Charles Pertwee was an influential Chelmsford figure, for his work with the Local Health Board and for the many fine buildings he designed around Essex. It is therefore befitting that he is honoured with this blue plaque."

For more information on blue plaques and how you can nominate one, please visit Blue plaques and public art - Chelmsford City Council