National identity 'undermined' by replacing Welsh with English names on maps

Historic Welsh place names being replaced with English ones on maps is "undermining our language and national identity", according to a Gwynedd councillor.

Einir Wiliams has criticised Ordnance Survey (OS) for using names that have "no basis in tradition" across online, signs and publications.

She cited the Mushroom Garden for Coed Cerrig y Frân; Heather Terrace Path for Llwybr Gwregys; and Bala Lake for Llyn Tegid.

Wiliams wants the Welsh government to intervene.

OS said it could not decide name changes.

"Any rare changes we do make are usually as a result of changes made by either authoritative bodies or when a name falls into disuse and another name comes into use," it said.

In her notice of motion, Wiliams said: "I want to express deep and passionate concern about the current Ordnance Survey policy which is leading to the deletion, undermining and ignoring of Welsh place names that have been part of our landscape for centuries.

"This council criticises these practices, as they contribute directly to the loss of Welsh names, and therefore undermine our language, history and national identity.

"When the Ordnance Survey adopts an English name, it appears on websites, signs, publications, and media and, as a result, the Welsh name is pushed aside.

"This happens even among young Welsh-speakers, who are often led to believe that the English name is the 'standard'.

"This is how language is weakened, not in one shot, but in a thousand small steps.

"No-one has the right to delete or replace them," she said.

Wiliams proposed the council writes to OS to "put an end" to "harmful policy".

"This is not just a matter of maps. It's a matter of identity, respect and cultural justice," she added.

The matter will go before council on 14 May.

Jim Jones, CEO of North Wales Tourism, said the Welsh Language Act 1993 makes sure "both languages are treated equally" and there is "no reason" why we could not have maps in both English and Welsh or even bilingually.

An OS spokesperson said: "Ordnance Survey is committed to holding authoritative versions of place names within its mapping where they are in common usage.

"Accurate representation of place names, including bilingual names if they are both in use, is essential for delivering high-quality mapping products to the public and supporting government and emergency services.

"Ordnance Survey cannot decide by itself to change a name.

"Any rare changes we do make are usually as a result of changes made by either authoritative bodies or when a name falls into disuse and another name comes into use.

"We continue to see an increase in the number of Welsh names and have supported recent work to adopt a number of standardised Welsh place names for lakes within Eryri National Park, ensuring they are captured in our database.

"We are committed to working in collaboration with the Welsh government... to identify what more we can do to support the Welsh language in our mapping."

The Welsh government has been asked for comment.