Staines residents to be consulted over 'Staines-on-Thames' name change
Staines residents to be consulted over 'Staines-on-Thames' name change, The question of whether Staines should change its name to overcome perceived negativity generated by years of association with characters such as Ali G will go out to public consultation, it was agreed.
Residents will be given the chance to have their say on whether the historic riverside town stays as it is or becomes Staines-Upon-Thames after Spelthorne Borough Council's cabinet voted for the matter at a meeting on Tuesday September 20.
Speaking for the proposals was Councillor Colin Davis, cabinet member for economic development.
He said: "As we know the business community have been asking us for some time to address the reputational difficulties of Staines.
"If people don't venture outside the area people won't be aware of the reputation because Staines is a delightful place to live.
"We have listened to the business community and those who operate businesses on the river."
The plans were supported by Cllr Robert Watts who said the consultation was a very good thing.
Included in the proposals will be a frequently asked questions list to address any issues people may have on the prospective change, such as cost and how it would affect them.
The month-long consultation exercise into changing the town's name will now begin on Saturday October 1. Should the plans continue, the formal launch of the new name is scheduled for May 20 2012.
Cllr Davis added: "The river is the spine of the borough. The problem was Ali G put Staines on the map but they just don't know where it is.
"Hampton Court is in one direction, Windsor Castle at the other. It's one of those proposals that has no losers. If it doesn't work people will call it plain old Staines but if it works it will be the beginning of a transformation."
Are you proud to live or work in Staines or do you think the town needs to change its name? Contact the newsroom on 01932 561111 with your views. Staines residents to be consulted over 'Staines-on-Thames' name change, Staines residents to be consulted over 'Staines-on-Thames' name change,
Source: stainesnews
