War heroes in line for Cannock Chase street names tribute
New streets created as part of housing developments in Cannock Chase will be named after war heroes and soldiers killed or injured in the line of duty, under plans unveiled today.
Noted veterans from the area, including Sapper Clive Smith, could be recognised under the proposal by the district council's leader George Adamson.
"I am asking our planners to put forward this new policy," he said.
Developers will be asked to adopt the policy as a condition of planning permission from Cannock Chase Council to build new housing.
Councillor Adamson said: "There are a number of armed forces personnel whose names we would like to use because of their bravery.
"We would speak to the families, and obviously see if they are happy for this to happen, and then have an opening ceremony too."
Councillor Adamson said Cannock war hero Sapper Clive Smith could be among those honoured. Sapper Smith, aged 27, from Hednesford, lost both of his legs after treading on an undetected explosive device in Afghanistan in 2010, and has since been at Hedley Court, a rehabilitation centre in Surrey, learning to use his prosthetic limbs and receiving intensive treatment.
"People like Sapper Smith have shown what bravery is all about," said Councillor Adamson.
Sapper Smith's father Steve Smith, also from Hednesford, said it would be a fitting tribute. "I am sure he would play it down if this was to happen but I would be so proud," he said.
Sheila Dunning, honorary poppy appeal organiser for the Cannock Royal British Legion, said: "I think it is a great idea, and we will have to look for some names that need to be used."
The move follows a similar scheme set up by Barking and Dagenham Council.
The London borough said it would be naming streets after war heroes, including Private Tony Rawson and Rifleman Martin Kinggett who were killed in Afghanistan.
