A new Blue Heritage plaque has been installed in Wilmslow to commemorate pioneering mathematician and code breaker Alan Turing, who lived in the town from 1950 until his death in 1954.
Wilmslow Town Council has funded and installed the plaque at Sparrow Park, Bank Square, recognising Alan Turing’s contribution to Britain’s wartime code-breaking efforts, contribution to modern computing and his enduring legacy.
Turing was one of the most influential British scientists and mathematicians of the 20th century. He is widely regarded as one of the founders of modern computing and a pioneer of artificial intelligence.
During the Second World War, Turing played a leading role in breaking German military codes, including Enigma, at Bletchley Park. His work made a significant contribution to the Allied war effort.
In 1952, Turing was arrested at Wilmslow Police Station, then located on Green Lane, near Bank Square, and prosecuted for homosexual offences. He died in 1954.
In 2009, the UK Government issued an official apology for the treatment of Alan Turing. In 2013, he was granted a posthumous royal pardon by Queen Elizabeth II.
The plaque recognises ‘Turing’s Law’, which provided posthumous pardons for people similarly convicted under historical laws.
Wilmslow Town Mayor, Councillor Sally Harrison, said, “Alan Turing was a brilliant visionary who played a pivotal role in world history and whose work continues to influence our daily lives. Wilmslow Town Council is honoured to celebrate him as a former Wilmslow resident through this permanent addition to our town centre.
“The plaque acknowledges the unjust treatment Turing endured, while also recognising the significance of Turing’s Law and its role in addressing the legacy of outdated laws.
“Thank you to Councillor Jon Kelly for proposing the idea and for driving it forward.”
The life and legacy of Alan Turing are explored in greater detail on a special Wilmslow heritage board outside Wilmslow Library.
