New Oswestry road to be named after teacher Mary Hignett
A new road in Oswestry will be named after a teacher, writer and naturalist who was born in the town.
The road has been created off Swan Lane following the demolition of flats to make room for 19 new houses.
At last night's Oswestry Town Council meeting, councillors were asked to vote on a name for the road, and decided that it should be named after Mary Hignett.
Mrs Hignett was a local writer who penned books on her childhood in Oswestry and about some of the walks in the surrounding countryside.
She was also a respected teacher, and on her death left half her substantial estate to the Rotary Club of Oswestry, which now administers a trust fund in her name.
A list of names had been suggested by town residents and four had been shortlisted for the council to choose from - Hignett Place, Clifford Place, Pullman Court or Place and Merritt Court or Place.
Councillor Shirley Best said: "I would suggest Mary Hignett Place.
We've got very few places in this town that recognise the women who have contributed to Oswestry's education and standing.
"Just saying Hignett Place doesn't do her justice, so I would ask for Mary Hignett Place."
Councillor Bill Benyon agreed with the proposal.
He said: "I believe she was a teacher at Welshpool High School when I was a member of the PTA there, so I have much support for that suggestion."
The name will be submitted to Shropshire Council to be formalised this week.
