More than you might think. Place names are not just a convenient way to indicate a particular spot on the map, they can also tell a brief history, honour a notable person, provide cultural context, add personality to an area. With this in mind, City Of Sydney has prepared a draft guideline for the naming or re-naming of suburbs, roads, parks, open spaces, places and buildings that within its jurisdiction.
The proposal lists 16 principles to be considered when selecting a name. Some of those include:
Names must be meaningful, clear and concise, especially for buildings. Names for buildings should reflect their location and purpose.

Names must have local or cultural relevance, reflecting the heritage and history of local people, events, the community or landscape. Names should not refer to or reflect current commercial businesses in that location.

Long and clumsily constructed names and names composed of two or more words (for placenames) or more than three words (for roads) should be avoided except where culturally appropriate.

Where names have been changed or corrupted by long established local usage, it is not usually advisable to attempt to restore the original form; that spelling which is sanctioned by general usage should be adopted.

For a copy of the draft proposal and an opportunity to provided feedback go to: www.sydneyyoursay.com.au/naming-policy
Public input is encouraged and comments will be received up to 5pm Tuesday March 20.

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