COUNCILLORS backed plans to explore renaming an 'offensive street' in Dursley. 

Stroud District Councillors voted to back the suggestions from the review during a full council meeting last night.

The recommendations could start a process leading to the renaming of 'Blackboys' street in Dursley. 

This comes as SDC led a review of street or building names and monuments after residents raised concerns in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020.

The review panel considered that, regardless of the origins, the street name of Blackboys in Dursley causes offence.

Other reviews have taken place for similar names across the country which have resulted in name changes.

There are eight properties on this street with a ‘Blackboys’ address and the review panel recommended that the council consults with the residents of Blackboys to consider renaming the street.

25 councillors voted for the recommendations, while 12 abstained and a couple voted against

Councillor Natalie Bennett, (L, Nailsworth) chaired the Review Panel and proposed the council should take on the recommendations.

She said: “The worldwide Black Lives Matter protests in June 2020 rightly highlighted the ongoing injustice and discrimination experienced by people across the world.

“One important issue that arose was the appropriateness of commemoration of people and events from history and their relevance today.

"This council committed to consult with our communities and undertake a review of any street and building name, statues and architectural features in the district which may be considered offensive.”.

Council leader Doina Cornell (L, Dursley), who seconded the motion, said the council should be commended for such a respectful debate.

She echoed the thanks for the panel and the cross-party commitment to tackle these issues. She said: “What I really value in this is that it was prompted by the community.

"This is very much our place to take this forward."