Local Heroes Remembered in New Road Names at Hale Development

Two new roads leading into Miller Homes Thorley Glade development in Hale have been officially named in honour of two remarkable local figures.

The road names ‘Dixons Way’ and ‘Nelson Crescent’ were chosen by Trafford Council in collaboration with Miller Homes to commemorate individuals who made significant contributions to the local community.

Dixons Way has been named after Second Officer Hubert Dixon, who served as a pilot with the Air Transport Auxiliary during the Second World War.

Officer Dixon tragically lost his life in 1942 when the engine of his aircraft failed while returning to Ringway Airport. Rather than risk crashing into nearby homes, he guided the plane away from residential areas, saving many lives but sadly losing his own at the age of 28.

He was later laid to rest at Altrincham Cemetery.

Nelson Crescent commemorates Edward Theophilus Nelson, who made local history as the first Black barrister and first Black councillor in the North of England.

Serving on Hale Council from 1913 until his death in 1940, Councillor Nelson was a pioneering figure in law and politics, remembered for his dedication to public service and his formidable oratory skills.

He was honoured with a Blue Plaque by Trafford Council in 2024, which can be seen at his former home on Cecil Road in Hale.

Both road names were proposed by the local Councillors: Cllr Nathan Evans, Cllr Dylan Butt, and Cllr Michael Taylor, and supported by Trafford Council, with Miller Homes working closely with the authority to ensure the chosen names reflect the area’s history and heritage.

Clare Noakes, Sales Director for Miller Homes North West, said: “We are proud to commemorate these two extraordinary individuals through the naming of roads at Thorley Glade. Both Officer Dixon and Councillor Nelson are remembered for their courage, commitment, and service to the local community, and it is fitting that their names will live on as part of this new neighbourhood in Hale.”

A spokesperson for Trafford Council added: “We are delighted that Miller Homes has chosen to honour two remarkable residents from Trafford’s past. Both men made an outstanding contribution to the borough and remain a source of inspiration to the community today.”

Thorley Glade, located off Thorley Lane, is a new development of three, four, and five-bedroom homes in a sought-after Hale location, conveniently positioned between Hale Village and Timperley. For more information about Miller Homes and its developments across the North West, visit www.millerhomes.co.uk