Renfrew street honouring Prince Andrew could be renamed after public consultation

Renfrewshire councillors will be asked to back a call for a consultation on the possibility of renaming Andrew Avenue in Renfrew at a summit next week.

It follows the removal of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s titles amid growing scrutiny over his links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The former prince, 65, has always denied any wrongdoing, but the situation has led to a motion being submitted to next Thursday’s full council meeting.

Councillor John Shaw, an SNP representative for Renfrew North and Braehead, will raise the issue with the support of Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, his party and ward colleague.

The text, which will need a majority to pass, states: “Council notes the recent stripping of titles from Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor by The Crown and the ongoing national concern regarding his behaviour and character.

“Council further notes that Mr Mountbatten-Windsor, as former Prince, has the honour of having Andrew Avenue in Renfrew named for him.

“Council confirms its position that persons having a street named after them are being given a great honour and that those persons should therefore be honourable and worthy of the recognition.

“Given the change in Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s status, council directs officers to initiate a consultation with the street’s residents on the possibility of renaming Andrew Avenue.”

The street is located in a residential part of Renfrew – not far from addresses such as Charles Avenue, Anne Avenue and Edward Avenue.

In a personal statement in October, the then Prince Andrew said he would no longer use the title or honours conferred upon him.

Later that month, Buckingham Palace confirmed he had been stripped of his prince title. He is now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

It added at the time: “His lease on Royal Lodge has, to date, provided him with legal protection to continue in residence. Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease, and he will move to alternative private accommodation.

“These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him.

“Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.”