The London Borough of Merton will recognise the slavery links of some street names by placing QR codes on signs, allowing people to read a detailed background of the individual and/or family the streets were named after.

The approach was the preferred option of the majority of more than 800 residents who took part in the six-week long consultation which closed on 31 May.

The council will now create a detailed background on each affected street and provide a page on its website with the information so residents can easily find out more.

Merton Council – which had already ruled out changing street names for a range of reasons, including transparency, cost and the impact on emergency services – set out a range of potential options.

The majority of survey respondents – over 55% – supported recognising the links to slavery of some street names. Among these, the most popular option was for QR codes to be placed on street signs so that those interested could access further information about the individuals and families the streets were named after.

Street names associated with the Burghley, Drax and Marryat families are among those affected. The council is now carrying out further research before implementing the consultation’s recommendations, which aim to give a balanced approach, making the information available to those who are interested.

Councillor Eleanor Stringer, Merton’s Cabinet Member for Civic Pride, said: “I’m really grateful to all those who took part, and pleased that we have what I think is a very sensible way forward.

“By taking this balanced approach, we take the opportunity to educate and inform people about the individuals and families these streets are named after, recognising those elements of their past that were simply wrong.

“Most of all, I’m pleased that we’re listening to what people in Merton have to say, and using this to guide how we go forward.”