Carrickfergus Council Renames Street After Prince Andrew Amid Public Outcry

Post by : Raina Nasser

In a significant move, the Northern Irish town of Carrickfergus has elected to strike the name of Prince Andrew from one of its prominent streets, driven by increasing public unease regarding his connections to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This decision aligns closely with recent actions taken by King Charles III, who rescinded royal titles and public duties from his brother.

The Mid and East Antrim council, which oversees Carrickfergus—situated approximately 16 kilometers northeast of Belfast—made the decision following a unanimous vote on Monday. The thoroughfare known as Prince Andrew Way will be renamed.

Local council member Aaron Skinner, who advocated for the proposal, emphasized that the change embodies the community's values. He noted that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, as the former prince is formally designated, “no longer mirrors what Carrickfergus stands for.” With the Royal Family taking decisive action on this matter, the town felt compelled to follow suit.

Many locals have expressed support for this decision, questioning why it wasn't enacted sooner, particularly following the publication of Virginia Giuffre's book that reignited public debate about Andrew's controversial past. A resident working as a care provider described the book as “damning,” asserting that the street name should have been changed long ago. Another veteran local added that maintaining the name tarnished the town's reputation.

Recent months had seen an uptick in frustration, with one of the street signs featuring Andrew’s name vandalized with black paint.

The council is currently considering potential new names for the road, including options honoring Princess Catherine or the late Queen Elizabeth II. A public consultation will be scheduled in the coming months to finalize the decision.

While other councils across England have mulled similar renaming actions, Carrickfergus stands out as the first UK town to officially rename a street associated with the former prince.