Community invited to name streets for new residential development

Residents in Lockleaze are being invited to vote for their favourite names for the eight new streets of a new housing development around Romney Avenue.

A shortlist of 12 names has been created, inspired by Bristol’s artistic heritage and famous figures ranging from actors to musicians and writers.

Among the names shortlisted are Clara Lane, inspired by Totterdown’s contralto singer, Dame Clara Butt, and More Street, a tribute to Bristol-born Hannah More who was well-known for her abolitionist writings and encouraged women to join the anti-slavery movement.

Locals have also shortlisted the name Langley Street in memory of Joy Langley, a well-loved resident within the Lockleaze community who died in 2018.

The opportunity is part of a plan by Bristol City Council to include locals in decisions related to One Lockleaze, the council’s latest housing development which includes the building of 268 new homes.

It will be the first development for Goram Homes, the council’s housing company, and built in collaboration with Vistry Partnerships, who aim to make 55 per cent of the housing affordable.

Ranging from apartments to family houses, Bristol City Council have pledged to build 147 new homes for both social rent and shared ownership.

In line with council’s aim to create a greener Bristol, all of the new homes are said to be connected to air source heat pumps to lower carbon emissions.

Cabinet member for housing, Tom Renhard, said: “It’s vital that local people can play an active role shaping their community, and now residents in Lockleaze can make their mark on this new neighbourhood by choosing the street names.

“Bristol has a hugely diverse and significant artistic heritage. Honouring the legacy of these artists and creative figures is another positive way to raise awareness of our city’s history and the people who’ve had an important impact on it.”

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Marc Thompson, managing director of Vistry Partnerships, added: “We’re providing a great mix of homes, including a significant number of affordable homes, a new community park and better infrastructure connections to the surrounding neighbourhoods.

“Now we want local residents to have a say in the names of the new streets, so they can be involved in shaping this new community.”

Residents can place their votes by picking up a ballot paper at one of the following locations: Hothfield Health Centre, The Hub, Crispy Cod Fish Bar, John James Court, Jhoots Pharmacy, Lockleaze Library and Habinteg.

Votes can be cast in person by returning ballot papers to The Hub on Gainsborough Square.

Voting opens on June 1 and closes on June 30, with the winning names to be confirmed in August 2022.

Main Image: Rebecca Noake

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