The selection of new street names is a matter which requires careful consideration to ensure that they are suitable for the area and will not conflict with or duplicate any existing names within the same locality.

For new developments usually the developer will suggest names, and the Council, will then consult the local Post Office, the emergency services and Town or Parish Council.

Following this, a view will be taken on the proposed name. Once agreed, each property will be given a number and official address, which will include the post code obtained from Royal Mail.

Building Control will then notify the statutory bodies and service providers such as the Police, Ambulance, Royal Mail etc.

Addresses for new individual properties

Where a new house is erected on an in-fill site between existing properties, the new dwelling will be given a number which follows on from the existing properties. In many cases this will have to be a suffix of the adjoining number, ie 16a, 17b.

If the existing properties do not have numbers, choosen names may be proposed.  The name will then be checked to ensure it does not conflict with any others within the local vicinity and then the statutory bodies will be notified as before.

Change of an Existing Address

If you move house/business and decide that you want to give the property a name, or you wish to change the existing name, you must consult with the Council. The necessary checks can then be carried out before agreement to the change.

It is very important that this procedure is followed; otherwise the statutory bodies and emergency services will not be aware of the change and if you then need to call out the Police, Ambulance Service, Fire Service or Doctor, their arrival could be substantially delayed.

Remember the accuracy of addresses is very important for a variety of reasons, including personal on-line transactions.

If your house has a number allocated to it, you must legally keep this as part of your address but you may add a house name to it as well.

Please note where a property does not have a postal number any change of house name must also be notified directly to Land Registry (PG002 - Keeping your address for service up to date).