Three women have been commemorated through the naming of streets in an affordable housing development in Blackbird Leys, Oxford.
Barbara Gatehouse Way, Val Smith Drive and Aurora James Walk are now part of The Aviary on Knights Road, which has been delivered by Peabody in partnership with Oxford City Council.
The names were formally dedicated at a ceremony on Thursday, October 22, attended by relatives, councillors and local residents.
Each of the three women was recognised for her exceptional contribution to Blackbird Leys.
Val Smith served as a councillor for 27 years and also held the position of Lord Mayor.
Barbara Gatehouse was an active political campaigner and served as Lord Mayor of Oxford.
Aurora James spent 55 years living in Blackbird Leys and raised thousands of pounds for charitable causes.
Relatives shared their recollections of the women during the dedication.
The Aviary contains 84 homes and provides shared ownership options.
It is one element of a broader regeneration programme set to provide 294 affordable homes around Knights Road and the District Centre.
That programme comprises 174 properties available at social rent and 120 offered through shared ownership.
It also incorporates a community centre, additional and upgraded shops, landscaped green areas, children’s play facilities and enhanced routes for pedestrians and cyclists.
Linda Smith, cabinet member for housing and communities, said the street dedications would keep the three women’s contributions visible within the community.
She noted that all had given extensively to Blackbird Leys and its residents, adding that their names would become enduring reminders of those who had helped shape the area.