A small cul-de-sac in Oak Bay, British Columbia, has become the center of an unexpected debate because of its name. Prince Andrew Place, located off King George Terrace in a neighborhood known for ocean views and royal-themed street names, went mostly unnoticed for years. Now, that quiet anonymity is giving way to renewed scrutiny as residents question whether the name still belongs.
Oak Bay street shouldn’t be named after Ex-Prince Andrew anymore, locals demand
For many locals, the street never stood out. Some residents say they have passed by it regularly without giving the name a second thought. Others admit they only noticed it when the topic surfaced publicly. It’s a short road with just a handful of homes, the kind of place that typically escapes attention. But its connection to ex-Prince Andrew has brought it into focus.
In recent years, Andrew has faced sustained public scrutiny over his past association with Jeffrey Epstein. In 2022, he settled a civil sexual assault case while denying the allegations. He has not faced criminal charges in connection with Epstein or other matters. Two years later, King Charles III removed his brother’s remaining royal titles and official roles, further distancing the monarchy from him. That shift has influenced how his name appears in public spaces, not just in the United Kingdom, but internationally.
Across Canada, Andrew’s name has already been removed from several public places, including plaques and institutions. There is also an ongoing effort to rename Prince Andrew Island near Peterborough, Ontario. These changes have prompted some Oak Bay residents to question whether Prince Andrew Place should follow suit.
Opinions in the neighborhood vary, but some locals believe the name no longer reflects community values. One resident suggested replacing it with a name that celebrates a notable woman, while another described the former royal as an “embarrassment.”
