The naming of a group of retirement apartments in Thornbury is proving controversial.

Alexandra Lodge, which comprises 57 one and two bedroom apartments designed for the over 60s, has recently been built by Churchill Retirement Living.

The naming of the Castle Street development has come under criticism with fears the name could be confusing.

This is due to other buildings in the town with similar names such as the Alexandra Way care home on Alexandra Way.

South Gloucestershire councillor Matthew Riddle (Con, Severn Ward) said: “I believe that Stokefield Lodge would be a better name for the new complex, given that it is the old site of Stokefield House and that Stokefield Close is next door.

“There is concern from some residents in my ward that the name of Alexandra Lodge will cause confusion, as there is the Alexandra Way care home in Alexandra Way and the new nursing home in Midland Way is next to the Alexandra Workware site.’

Former Thornbury mayor Charles Eardley-Wilmot said the name was ‘ridiculous’ and could even pose a danger if it caused confusion amongst the emergency services.

Thornbury Town Councillor Maggie Tyrell said: “The Town Council have not been consulted over this name. We have written to South Gloucestershire Council to request that we are included in the naming of future landmark developments as there have been a number of recent issues like this that cause confusion for residents, visitors and service providers and this could easily be prevented.”

Churchill denied failing to consult the council over the name.

Robert Monkman, Churchill’s regional managing director for the Midlands, said: “We’re looking forward to the launch of our brand new development in Thornbury.

“The name Alexandra Lodge – inspired by the town’s famous workwear manufacturer – was fully approved by South Gloucestershire Council and Thornbury Town Council earlier this year following a detailed application process.”