List of Gateshead blue plaques

A long-running blue plaque scheme is in operation in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear.

[6] An individual will only be considered for commemoration by Gateshead blue plaque if they meet the suggested criteria laid out in the 2004 'report to cabinet'.

These are that the individual has sufficient local standing, is regarded as an eminent member of their profession, calling or field or has made some important contribution to "human welfare or happiness".

[7] Some of those commemorated through the scheme include Geordie Ridley, author of the Blaydon Races,[8] William Wailes, a noted 19th century proponent of stained glass who lived in a "fairytale mansion" at Saltwell Park,[9][10] the industrialist and co-founder of Clarke Chapman, William Clarke[11] and Sir Joseph Swan, the inventor of the incandescent light bulb whose house in Low Fell was the first in the world to be illuminated by electric light.

[11][12] An historical event will be considered suitable for a Gateshead blue plaque so long as it was not a usual occurrence, had a significant impact on local or national history and can be readily associated with a building or structure to which the corresponding plaque can be appended.