A motion calling for residents to be formally consulted on whether Andrew Avenue should be renamed will go before Renfrewshire Council on Thursday.

The proposal, submitted jointly by Councillor John Shaw and seconded by Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, follows recent action by The Crown to strip Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor of his remaining titles, alongside continued national concern over his conduct.

The motion states that having a street named after an individual is “a great honour” and should reflect a person’s character and standing. It notes that Andrew Avenue in Renfrew was named after the former Prince, and that circumstances surrounding his public status have since changed.

Councillor Shaw said he has been contacted by some residents in recent weeks who have asked whether a change of name is possible, adding that similar consultations have taken place elsewhere. He stressed that no decision should be made without first seeking the views of the people who live on the street.

He said: “In light of the recent actions taken by the King regarding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, it’s only right that the people who actually live on Andrew Avenue have the first and final say.

“If the motion is agreed, Council officers will begin engagement with residents to gather their views. Their voices should lead this discussion, and we’re committed to ensuring exactly that.”

The full motion being submitted to the next meeting of Full Council reads:

“Renfrewshire Council notes the recent stripping of titles from Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor by The Crown, and the ongoing national concern regarding his behaviour and character.

“Renfrewshire Council notes that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, as former Prince, has the honour of having Andrew Avenue in Renfrew named for him.

“Renfrewshire Council confirms its position that persons having a street named after them are being given a great honour, and that those persons should therefore be honourable and worthy of the recognition.

“In light of the recent change to Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s position, Council instructs the relevant officers to undergo consultation with residents on a potential change of name for Andrew Avenue.”

Photo Credit: Titanic Belfast / Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic

By Ricky Kelly

Main writer for Renfrewshire News

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