Council's plans to review road names in Penarth and Barry

In June, following the Black Lives Matter protests and the tearing down of the Edward Colston statue in Bristol, the Vale council signalled its intention for a review.

And now, following a cabinet meeting on Monday evening (November 2), a review has been agreed to take place, with a deadline for suggested commemorations set for January 31.

There were no objections to the proposals.

Among those to be reviewed could be Clive Place and Plassey Street in Penarth, which are both suggested to be linked to colonist Robert Clive.

In July 35 people staged a protest outside the Civic Offices in Barry, demanding the council rename Ffordd Penrhyn, which they say has connotations of slavery.

Cllr Liz Burnett and council leader Neil Moore

Following the meeting on Monday, leader Neil Moore said: “All town and community councils, as well as members of the public, will be able to make representations for names to be reviewed.

“The views of under represented groups, who may wish to make commemoration proposals, will also be sought and a panel established to review representations received.

“The panel will be made up of councillors, an officer from the council’s Strategic Leadership Group and external individuals appointed by the cabinet.

“The recommendations of the panel will then be reported to the cabinet for decision.

“We know that there are very many people who have made positive contributions to the lives of others at local, national and international levels.”

Councillor Liz Burnett, who seconded the proposals, said: “This is a hugely complex topic and is one that is right to address at this time.

“I’m grateful for the Black Lives Matter movement for being the catalyst to bring this onto the agenda.

“People in the Vale should feel they belong and are valued within their communities, and that means the environment in which they live should demonstrate they are part of that community.”

She also called for better celebration of culture and diversity, adding: “We can’t gather for remembrance this Sunday, but by turning our lights red we can demonstrate it’s in our minds. Sometimes we put the lights on for smaller things that might matter to fewer people – but they still matter. I’d like us to do more that across the Vale.”

She urged caution, however, to those carrying out the review.

“We have to think carefully and talk to people who know the history of the area. It can’t be knee jerk.”