Why street naming and numbering is important
The address of a property is increasingly becoming a very important issue. More organisations, postal and emergency services and the general public need an efficient means of locating and referencing properties.
If a property is not “registered” through the street naming and numbering process it will not appear on the main address database and the owner/occupier will encounter difficulties in obtaining mail, goods and services from a variety of sources, for example applying for a credit card or obtaining goods by mail order.
The main address database is used by the council, Royal Mail, all statutory undertakers, emergency services, credit agencies, satellite navigation system suppliers and many private companies.
All new addresses are allocated in line with British Standard 7666.
Who should apply
Individuals or developers building new houses, commercial or industrial premises.
- Individuals or developers undertaking conversions of residential, commercial or industrial premises which will result in the creation of new properties or premises.
When should you apply
Once you have received planning permission you should apply for a postal address in the early stages of any new build or conversion. You should definitely apply before any new build or conversion is substantially complete. Utility companies will not install services without an official postal address and postcode.
How to apply
You will need to provide:
- your contact name and details
- location and type of development
- official marketing name of the development
- planning permission approval number
- suggested new street names when relevant
We may ask for additional information when necessary to process a request.
How long will it take
We always aim to deliver a high quality efficient service.
If your request relates to a new address on an existing street under normal circumstances we will allocate a postal address the following working day from receipt of a valid application.
If your request involves the naming of new streets due to the consultation process with Local ward Councillors under normal circumstances we will allocate a postal address within 28 working days from receipt of a valid application.
In both cases your address is allocated without a postcode and Royal Mail normally take another 24hrs to allocate a postcode.
Application form and guidance notes
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