Gwynedd Councillor States English Map Names Undermine Welsh Language, Identity
A Gwynedd councillor asserts that the replacement of historic Welsh place names with English versions on maps by Ordnance Survey (OS) is “undermining our language and national identity.” Councillor Einir Wiliams specifically cited examples such as ‘Mushroom Garden’ for Coed Cerrig y Frân, ‘Heather Terrace Path’ for Llwybr Gwregys, and ‘Bala Lake’ for Llyn Tegid, stating these English names lack traditional basis.
Ms Wiliams’ motion before the council on 14 May will call for the Welsh Government to intervene, describing the current OS policy as contributing directly “to the loss of Welsh names” and weakening the language “in a thousand small steps.” She emphasised that Welsh place names are integral to cultural identity, providing a narrative of the land, people, and history.
Ordnance Survey maintains it does not unilaterally change names, stating that any alterations occur only when authoritative bodies make changes or when a name falls into disuse and another gains common usage. An OS spokesperson affirmed commitment to representing authoritative place names, including bilingual forms where applicable, and expressed willingness to collaborate with the Welsh Government on supporting the Welsh language in mapping. North Wales Tourism CEO Jim Jones suggested that the Welsh Language Act 1993 ensures equal treatment, supporting bilingual or Welsh-only maps.
