Thomas Simpson plaque appeal

Thomas Simpson was a remarkable local architect whose work helped to transform education in Brighton & Hove in the 19th century and much of which continues to usefully adorn the City to this day. One outstanding example is the Connaught School in Hove which, as a result of a Brighton Society campaign culminating in 2009. was the last of the Simpson schools to be listed by English Heritage 

Some of Simpson's other buildings which may still be seen around the City are:- Belgrave Street Congregational Chapel and School 1862; Preston road Board Schools 1880; Finsbury Road Board Schools 1881; York Place Higher Grade Schools 1884; Central National Infants' School , Upper Gardner Street, 1887;

Ditchling Road Board Schools 1890; Elm Grove Board Schools 1890;

Stanford Road Board Schools1894; School for Afflicted Children and Cookery School,  now part of City College; St.Luke's Board Schools 1903.

On account of his outstanding portfolio of work the Brighton Society have long considered that Simpson deserves permanent recognition in the City, and have proposed to the City's Commemorative Plaque Panel that a commemorative plaque be sited on the western façade of the Connaught School.

The plaque as illustrated will be executed in high endurance glazed ceramic as approved by English Heritage and the cost will be about £1000, including installation.

Donations towards the cost are invited and will be warmly welcomed. They should be made payable to 'The Brighton Society' and sent to the Society's Treasurer: Lyn Lynch-White, 4 The Barn, Church Hill, Brighton, BN1 8YE.