Ashley Park, Newnan’s largest and most familiar retail development, is considering a controversial transformation that has locals grasping for a sense of belonging: changing its name.
The change proposed by the Ashley Park Marketing Group and supported in early talks with city stakeholders, is being framed as part of a broader “city refresh” to reflect “modern and evolving consumer identity.” But for many in Newnan, the move feels unnecessary when there are so many more important areas of Newnan to improve.
Ashley Park is more than a shopping center. With major anchors like Belk, Dillard’s, Barnes & Noble, the Regal Cinema, and now downtown favorite Full Circle Toys, it has become a central gathering point for the Newnan community. Ashley Park has managed to stay fresh, stay safe, stay fun, and stay in our minds.
“It’s not just a shopping center, it’s part of our rhythm,” said Kelly Hunter, a resident of Coweta County for over two decades. “Renaming it feels like someone trying to fix something that wasn’t broken. What’s next? Finally changing the name from Newnan to Newman to coincide with all the spell checks? It has to stop somewhere.”
According to a statement from the marketing group, the effort is part of a long-term strategy to “improve public perception” and better align with younger demographics and national retail trends. The group points out various upgrades that have already come to Ashley Park, including a hop scotch course and a partnership with City of Hope.
“There’s nothing wrong with the name Ashley,” said a representative involved in the campaign, “but it’s 2025, and names can and will change. I’m sure Ashley is a great girl.”
GameStop’s owner raised some logistical concerns: GPS systems, business listings, and tenant contracts could all be affected.
Some on the city council are also unconvinced after a 3-2 preliminary vote went down early last week. “Our locals are already struggling so much to sense that familiarity and connection to The City of Homes that initially brought them here. We’re changing. Too fast if you ask me.”
A final decision is expected in late September, before the holiday rush increase expected Ashley Park customers by 40x. For now the signage along Newnan Crossing Bypass stays the same, but the name change is down to just a few options and those in know all agree that the change is inevitable.
The list of potential new names has been narrowed down to Ashleigh, Ashlee, Ashlea, Ashli, Ashlie, and Ashly.
Newnan Time with Harold 