Plymouth Sutton MP Linda Gilroy and Devonport Councillor Nicky Wildy have weighed in with their support for a campaign to save Devonport’s Fore Street.

Redevelopers want to rename the historic street ‘Argyle Avenue’. However, the decision has angered many local residents.

Devonport Councillor Nicky Wildy said “The obvious solution is to rename them Fore Street East and Fore Street West. In the interests of protecting and preserving Devonport's history we must do this”

“The problem stems from the fact that the redevelopment divides the original street into two separate parts. The name Fore Street is already in existence (namely the area covered by Welcome Hall, Chico's Garage and the Bingo Hall) and this makes it difficult to introduce another Fore Street in the adjacent area”.

Cllr Wildy has today written to Barry Foster, Plymouth City Council’s Property Records Controller, urging him to consider the alternative.

She added “I will fight to have the name Fore Street in former Stores Enclave new development”

Linda Gilroy, who is approaching the developer Redrow, said “Whilst the redevelopment of the area is very welcome, if it is to be truly successful then it must respect both Devonport’s unique identity and the strong local community. I see this campaign as vital to the concept of restoring the heart of Devonport”.

“Fore Street is connected with historic figures like Nelson, Cook and Darwin. But equally important are the associations the name has with the many ordinary Plymothians who endured the horrors of the Blitz but then went on to rebuild their lives - and our City”.

She added “It is important that we never forget their bravery and fortitude”.

21 April 2008