New roads in Balderstone named after former prime ministers

Councillor Richard Farnell with local historian Vernon Earnshaw

The new roads on the estate being built on the old Balderstone School site have all been named after former prime ministers.

The names were suggested by former local councillor and local historian Vernon Earnshaw who lives nearby.

He said: “We already have Gladstone Crescent in the area, so I thought as these new houses are being built off Queen Victoria Street it would be a nice idea to name them after prime ministers who served during Queen Victoria’s reign.”

The four streets on the new development are Beaconsfield Road, Palmerston Way, Rosebery Close and Salisbury Drive.

Mr Earnshaw added: “I did think of naming one after Disraeli, but thought people would struggle spelling that, so I opted for the title he took - Beaconsfield - when he was elevated to the House of Lords.

Local councillor Richard Farnell said: “Whenever I need to find out about the history of Balderstone or Kirkholt, or need to find names for new streets, I always ask Vernon. He is a mine of local history and knowledge.

“He came up with the names of painters for a new development off Hill Top Drive to complement other local streets on Kirkholt named after artists.

“It is important street names should have some connection with the local area and who better to ask but Vernon. He is a remarkable character."