If you’ve ever wandered the streets of London, you may have noticed that each street has a unique name. But have you ever wondered how these streets got their names? In this article, we’ll dive into the history and process behind naming London’s streets.
History of Street Naming in London
The practice of naming streets in London dates back to the Roman era, when they first laid out the city’s road network. The Romans named their roads after the destinations they led to, such as Watling Street which led to Canterbury.
After the Romans left, street names became less standardized and more localized. Many streets were named after prominent landowners or local landmarks. For example, Cheapside was named after the Old English word “chepe,” meaning market, because it was once a bustling marketplace.
The Role of Local Government
Today, street names in London are determined by local government authorities such as borough councils. When a new street is created or an existing one is renamed, the council is responsible for choosing a suitable name.
Criteria for Naming Streets
Councils typically follow certain criteria when naming streets. These include:
- Avoiding duplication: Streets with similar-sounding or spelled names are avoided to prevent confusion.
- Reflecting local culture: Many councils aim to choose names that reflect the history and culture of their area.
- Honoring notable people: Some streets are named after notable individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
- Geographical features: Some streets are named after geographical features such as rivers or hills.
The Process of Naming Streets
When a new development is planned that requires new street names, developers will often submit suggestions to the council. The council will then review these suggestions and choose appropriate names based on the criteria listed above.
If an existing street needs to be renamed, the council will usually consult with local residents and businesses to gather suggestions. The final decision is made by the council after considering all of the suggestions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, street naming in London has a long and storied history that continues to this day. While some street names reflect the city’s Roman past, others honor notable individuals or reflect local culture. The process of naming streets is now overseen by local government authorities who follow certain criteria when choosing new names.