Swindon Borough Council has launched a call for parish councils, community organisations and heritage groups to submit ideas, giving them a direct role in shaping neighbourhoods that are yet to be built.
With major housing schemes continuing across the borough, the authority says it wants new roads and public spaces to reflect local history and character, rather than defaulting to generic titles.
There are already more than 3,000 streets in Swindon. Many reference the town’s railway heritage, well-known engineers, Swindon Town footballers and historic landmarks which no longer exist.
In more recent developments, naming themes have been used to link communities with their surroundings.
At Wichelstowe, roads in Middle Wichel are inspired by the canal being constructed as part of the scheme. In nearby West Wichel, streets are named after orchard varieties, including apples native to Wiltshire, with saplings planted across the area.
The council is particularly keen to receive suggestions recognising notable local figures, historic events and landmarks. It also welcomes ideas that celebrate geographical features, historic field names and Swindon’s industrial, agricultural and cultural heritage.
Groups putting forward proposals are asked to include a short explanation outlining the historical or community significance behind each suggested name.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Planning, said street names become part of everyday life for generations.
“My favourite street name is actually a nickname, Vic Hill, which people use for Victoria Road. It’s both a great abbreviation and a case of typically English irreverence,” she said.
“But the name tells a story too. Queen Victoria was on the throne when Old Town and New Town became a single Borough of Swindon, and she gave her name to the main road connecting the two.
“We want new developments in Swindon to feel rooted in the character and history of our communities and places. Local people, parish councils and heritage groups hold a huge wealth of knowledge about the stories and identities that make each part of Swindon unique.
“By working together, we can ensure that future neighbourhoods celebrate that richness and honour it for years to come.”
The council says involving local organisations at an earlier stage will help ensure new developments strengthen the town’s identity as it continues to grow.
Suggested names must be submitted by 31 May. Proposals should be emailed to [email protected]
