We appreciated your editorial regarding the homes of writers published on August 18, as well as Richard Clemmow’s response on August 25, in which he represents the Blake Cottage Trust. However, we must contest Clemmow’s assertion that William Blake’s cottage in Felpham, Sussex, is the sole residence of his that could potentially be opened to the public. The other existing home where Blake resided, located at 17 South Molton Street in London, is not “disappearing behind new development,” but is currently undergoing a meticulous restoration process by its owner, the Grosvenor Estate. With adequate support, it could be transformed into a culturally significant museum through the acquisition of a leasehold.

The William Blake Fellowship has been engaged in discussions with the Grosvenor Group/Grosvenor Property UK regarding this initiative for several years. This endeavor has garnered backing from prominent figures and institutions, including Sadiq Khan, Tate Britain, the V&A, and English Heritage, along with thousands of admirers of Blake, including artists, poets, and musicians who have endorsed our petitions and communicated their support to the Duke of Westminster. The project is gaining traction and, with hope and strategic vision, we may be able to open this site to the public in time for the bicentennial of Blake’s passing on August 12 of next year.

Helen Elwes and Stephen Micalef
The William Blake Congregation

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