The historic London residence of poet and artist William Blake is undergoing restoration and could potentially open to the public, according to advocates involved in the project. The property at 17 South Molton Street, where Blake once lived, is currently owned by the Grosvenor Estate and is being restored with a view toward creating a museum dedicated to the cultural significance of Blake’s life and work.

Contrary to claims that the London house is under threat from redevelopment, representatives of the William Blake Fellowship, an organization championing the project, assert that the building is not disappearing but is being preserved. The fellowship has been in negotiations with the Grosvenor Group and Grosvenor Property UK for several years to secure a leasehold on the property, enabling public access and cultural programming.

Supporters of the initiative include prominent figures and institutions such as Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London; Tate Britain; the Victoria and Albert Museum; and English Heritage. In addition, thousands of individuals—ranging from Blake enthusiasts to artists, poets, and musicians—have expressed their backing through petitions and open letters addressed to the Duke of Westminster, head of the Grosvenor Estate.

The effort aims to coincide with the bicentenary of Blake’s death, which falls on August 12 next year, potentially marking a significant cultural milestone with the opening of the museum. While previously the focus on Blake’s residences has centered on his cottage in Felpham, Sussex, advocates stress that the London address offers an equally valuable site for appreciation and study of Blake’s legacy.

The William Blake Fellowship describes the project as gaining momentum, noting that with sufficient support and vision, 17 South Molton Street could become a vital public resource, preserving an important link to one of Britain’s most influential literary and artistic figures.