Apply for street name or number

What is street naming and numbering and why is it important?

Street naming and numbering ensures every property has a unique, unambiguous address. This helps emergency services, Royal Mail, utility companies, and the Council deliver services efficiently. Without an official address, it can be difficult to register for services, open a bank account, or receive deliveries.

Who is responsible for naming streets and numbering properties in Swindon?

We manage this process under the Town Improvement Clauses Act 1847 and the Public Health Act 1925.

What laws govern street naming and numbering?

The process is governed by Sections 64 and 65 of the Town Improvement Clauses Act 1847 and Sections 17 to 19 of the Public Health Act 1925.

How do I apply for a new street name or property number?

Applications can be made online via the street naming and numbering webpage. You’ll need to provide a site plan and details of the development.

Can I choose the name for my new street or property?

Yes, developers and owners can suggest names, but they must comply with the Council’s policy. The final decision rests with the Council after consultation with Parish and Ward Councillors.

What criteria does the Council use when approving street names?

Names must not duplicate existing ones, be offensive, difficult to pronounce, or include marketing titles. Names of living individuals or fictional characters are not allowed. Names of deceased individuals require a 20-year gap and historical connection to the area.

Why can’t street names be duplicated or sound similar to existing names?

Duplicate or similar names can cause confusion for emergency services and deliveries, which may lead to delays in critical situations.

Can I name a street after a person?

Only deceased individuals who have been passed for at least 20 years and have a historical connection to the area may be considered. Written consent from their estate is required.

Are there restrictions on using names of living individuals or fictional characters?

Yes. Living individuals and fictional characters are not permitted due to privacy, copyright, and intellectual property concerns.

What happens if I want to change the name of my property?

You must apply online, provide proof of ownership, and ensure the new name does not duplicate others in the area. The existing house number must remain and cannot be replaced by a name.

Can a house number be replaced with a name?

No. If a property has a number, it must always be used in the official address.

How are property numbers assigned on new streets?

Numbers are allocated in a logical sequence: odd numbers on the left, even on the right from the main access road. Cul-de-sacs are numbered clockwise. The number 13 is not omitted.

Why is the number 13 not excluded from numbering?

Superstition or personal preference does not influence numbering decisions.

What should I do if my property is converted into flats or an HMO?

Notify the Street Naming and Numbering team before occupation so the property can be correctly recorded in official systems.

Who provides postcodes for new addresses?

Royal Mail is responsible for postcode allocation and maintenance.

How long does it take to get an official address approved?

Timescales vary depending on the complexity of the application and consultation requirements. Contact the Address Management team for guidance.

What happens if a street nameplate is erected without Council approval?

It is unlawful and may result in a fine under the Criminal Justice Act 1982.

Who maintains street name signs?

The Highways Department maintains signs for adopted streets. Private streets are the responsibility of residents.

Does the Council name public footpaths?

No. Footpaths are recorded for mapping and maintenance but are not part of the official street naming and numbering process.

Are there charges for street naming and numbering services?

Yes. Fees are listed on the main street naming and numbering webpage.

Who is notified when an address is created or changed?

Internal departments, for example, Planning, Council Tax, and external bodies, for example, Royal Mail, Emergency Services, Land Registry, are informed.

Where can I find the list of approved street name suffixes?

See the Street Naming and Numbering Appendix C.

What should I do if I have a complaint about street naming or numbering?

Appeals can be made to the:

Local Government Ombudsman
21 Queen Anne’s Gate 
London
SW1

Can developers use marketing names for new streets?

No. Marketing names are not adopted as official street names.

How do I contact the Street Naming and Numbering team?

You can email: gazetteers@swindon.gov.uk or alternatively, contact us via the following address:

Street Management team
Swindon Borough Council
Wat Tyler House
Swindon
SN1 2JH

What should I do if my property is converted into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO)?

If a property is converted from a single dwelling into an HMO, the owner, developer, agent, or landlord must notify the Street Naming and Numbering (SNN) department before the property is occupied. This ensures the building is correctly recorded in the Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG) and Royal Mail Postcode Address File (PAF), so emergency, postal, and delivery services can locate it accurately.

Differences between an official address and a postal address

The Council is responsible for issuing the official address, which usually takes the format in line with our policy and the BS7666 standards for creating addresses.

• Building number
• Street name
• Town

We notify Royal Mail of the official address from which they create the postal address, which is for their own use for the efficient delivery of mail. They will add the appropriate postal town and postcode and may change or remove post town or locality. In some cases they could also remove street names. We have no control over Royal Mail’s database.