Decision details

Councillor Roberts proposed and Councillor Sarris seconded the following motion: 

The council notes:

·       The passing of world-leading scientist and author Professor Stephen Hawking, who died aged 76 at his Cambridge home on 14 March 2018.

·       That, as an academic, Hawking made an outstanding contribution to theoretical physics and theoretical cosmology, leading to widespread recognition, including being made a Fellow of the Royal Society, receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and becoming the Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge.

·       That, beyond academia, Hawking promoted scientific discovery and complex ideas to millions through his best-selling book 'A Brief History of Time' and a wide range of other popular books, documentaries, films and children's literature.

·       That, politically, Hawking was a staunch defender of universal and well-funded healthcare, nuclear disarmament and efforts to prevent climate change.

·       That, through a public poll in the UK in 2002, Hawking was ranked 25th in a list of the 100 Greatest Britons, with many voters citing his ability to inspire others, break down barriers and encourage free thinking.

·       That Hawking lived and worked in Cambridge for nearly all his adult life, helping both intentionally and coincidentally to promote the University of Cambridge and our city.

·       That there is a small statue of Hawking by the late artist Ian Walters at the Centre for Theoretical Cosmology, which was unveiled in 2007, and that Trinity Hall named a conference/seminar room after Professor Hawking in 2015 – neither of which is a publicly accessible tribute to his work and life.

The council believes:

·       That Professor Stephen Hawking was a proud resident of Cambridge.

·       That Cambridge gained from our city's association with Professor Stephen Hawking.

·       That – judging by the messages from the public, people-lined streets and media reaction following his death – the University of Cambridge, the scientific community and our city have lost a much-loved and respected ambassador.

·       That for someone who did so much to promote science among the public, challenge stereotypes and inspire others, it would be remiss not to have a public and lasting tribute to Professor Hawking.

The council resolves:

·       To work to put in place a lasting public tribute to Professor Stephen Hawking, taking into account the wishes of the Hawking family, Gonville and Caius College, his department and the University of Cambridge

·       To engage with Cambridge residents through the local media and other outlets, to ensure that the eventual project carries with it the widest possible support

·       To ask the Executive Councillor for Streets and Open Spaces to lead on the project, alongside the appropriate council committees

Resolved (unanimously) to support the motion.