It's all in the name

We’re responsible for naming and numbering new streets and buildings across the Wokingham Borough. Meet Viv Conlon, who’s been co-ordinating this for the past 18 years.

“If we need a name for a new street, there’s a list of rules we must stick to. For example, the first thing we do is look at the history of the site to see if there’s anything that could inspire new names. I work closely with Peter Must and his colleagues from the Wokingham Society who are able to research this - they are now looking at names for the new roads needed for Elms Field as part of our Wokingham Town Centre regeneration.”

Road names can also be used to honour local people. Former town centre manager and long-time charity stalwart John Bingham was recognised this way last July, with Bingham Way on the new Eldridge Park development. His widow Jane and family members joined us and other local dignitaries for the sign’s unveiling.

Streets cannot be named after a living person. “A developer once sent me a list of suggested names that sounded a bit odd,” said Viv. “When I asked what connection these had to the site, they said these were the names of all the people in their department. Nice try, but a no go!”

Street names must be easy to spell, pronounce, and can also refer to the natural or landscape features of that area. “Fawn Drive and Elk Path in Shinfield were named because deer used to be there, thanks to a suggestion from the parish council.

“When new homes were being built near the A329 London Road (Keephatch Beech) there was a lovely old oak tree in

the middle with a tree preservation order. So I suggested Oak Avenue and Acorn and Catkin House for the flats, which they now are.”

The Royal Mail always screens suggested names to make sure they aren’t similar to any others in their delivery area.

“We ran a public competition four years ago to rename Eustace Crescent on the Norreys Estate, but first ran the shortlisted entries past Royal Mail to make sure they approved. We couldn’t have our judges picking a winner (they chose Phoenix Avenue by the way) that couldn’t then be used.

“And yes, of course I’ve been sent hilarious and sometimes rude suggestions in the past. But I couldn’t possibly repeat them.”

More information: www.wokingham.gov.uk (search ‘street naming and numbering protocol’) Royal Mail: customer.service.team@royalmail.com or (0845) 604 5060 ext 1