Mississauga’s Mayor Carolyn Parrish says it’s time for the city to cut symbolic ties with Prince Andrew by renaming Duke of York Boulevard — a major downtown street named in his honour nearly four decades ago.
The boulevard, which runs through the heart of Mississauga’s City Centre near city hall and the Living Arts Centre, was originally named after the Duke of York in 1987, following his and then-wife Sarah Ferguson’s visit for the official opening of the Mississauga Civic Centre.
However, in light of multiple controversies and sex-related allegations against Andrew, Parrish has revived the conversation at city council, suggesting the street should simply be renamed York Boulevard. The move, she said, would disassociate the city from the disgraced former royal who has now lost virtually all his titles, privileges, and duties.
“Given the allegations and the ongoing issues, I think it’s obvious we should distance ourselves,” Parrish told council. “More details keep emerging, and it’s time we talk to the right people and move forward on a change.”
Prince Andrew, once a prominent figure in the royal family, was officially stripped of his title “Prince” this week, after previously losing the designation “Duke of York” and all royal and military roles in 2022. The measures followed accusations that he sexually abused a 17-year-old girl in 2001 — claims he has denied — and his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Now known simply as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, the 65-year-old brother of King Charles III and son of the late Queen Elizabeth II has also reportedly been evicted from his residence, the Royal Lodge.
This isn’t the first time Mississauga council has debated the name change. A similar discussion in 2022 stalled without action. But with Parrish renewing the push and public opinion shifting, Duke of York Boulevard — a name long taken for granted — could soon be a thing of the past.