Plymouth street names to honour city’s fallen heroes

Bereaved service families and communities in Plymouth are being offered the opportunity to name city streets after their lost loved ones.

Plymouth City Council has adjusted its street naming policy so that local residents can propose local servicemen and women to be commemorated in this way.

Street names are most commonly suggested by developers when new roads are built, however they often ask for help from the Council’s street naming and numbering team, who keep a database of appropriate names.

Members of the community are now being invited to propose local fallen heroes to be included.

Nominees must have a ‘demonstrable personal connection with Plymouth’ and ‘have lost their lives in service of their nation since 1914’. Proposals should only be suggested with the agreement of the deceased person’s family and must meet the criteria outlined in the street naming policy (available online).

Plymouth’s Armed Forces Community Covenant Steering Group will work with the Council to review those nominated and ensure that the process is handled sensitively. Servicemen and women who have attained a Distinguished Service Award or demonstrated notable service will be commemorated initially, though all nominations will be considered.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Co-operatives and Community Development, said: “When naming new streets we try to reflect the local history or commemorate key people who have had a special link with that area. There can be no men or women more deserving of this honour than those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. This is a poignant and long-lasting way for communities to remember their fallen heroes and pay tribute to their bravery.”

For full details on how to propose a name for consideration see the street naming policy on the Council’s website at www.plymouth.gov.uk/streetnaming. Alternatively, call 01752 304588 or email corporateproperty@plymouth.gov.uk.