The future of Prince Andrew Drive in Windsor hangs in the balance as local residents deliver a decisive verdict on whether the controversial royal's name should remain on their street signs.
In an exclusive Sky News poll conducted along the Berkshire road, an overwhelming majority of homeowners expressed their desire for change, with many citing the Duke of York's association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and the subsequent civil sexual assault case.
'It's Time for a Change': Residents Voice Their Concerns
One long-term resident, who has lived on the street for over two decades, didn't mince words: "I think it's time for a change. He's brought shame on the country and the royal family." This sentiment echoes throughout the community, where royal connections once brought pride but now generate discomfort.
Another homeowner questioned the appropriateness of maintaining the name, stating, "Why would you want a road named after him now?" The depth of feeling suggests the scandal has fundamentally altered how residents view their address's royal association.
A Royal Dilemma in Windsor's Streets
The controversy places Windsor—home to Windsor Castle and deeply intertwined with royal heritage—in a particularly sensitive position. While the town celebrates its royal connections, Prince Andrew Drive represents a complication in that narrative.
Local authorities now face the challenging decision of balancing historical naming conventions with contemporary public opinion and ethical considerations. The debate touches on broader questions about how communities should handle names and memorials connected to controversial figures.
Overwhelming Public Sentiment
The Sky News investigation revealed near-unanimous support for renaming among those willing to speak publicly. The strength of feeling suggests the issue extends beyond mere political correctness to genuine community discomfort with the current naming.
As one resident succinctly put it, the current situation "doesn't feel right anymore"—a sentiment that appears to capture the mood of the entire street as Windsor confronts this royal naming controversy head-on.
