Street names with historic links to the slave trade

Some roads in Merton have been named after individuals who have a historic link with the slave trade, either through their own actions or their families. This is the case with street names associated with the Burghley, Drax and Marryat families.

We are not proposing to change the names of any roads. For privately owned roads, we can only suggest actions that those residents may wish to take.

However, it is important to acknowledge this history and the impact these individuals’ actions have had, and continue to have, on our society. We would like to consult with residents of those roads, along with other interested individuals or groups, as to what would be the best way of marking this link.