Hartlepool Council bans memorial benches in UK first

The council announced the decision amid concerns that the 275 existing benches across the town are beginning to overwhelm public areas.

The Labour-run authority said the benches, placed in memory of loved ones, can block access for wheelchair users and people with pushchairs.

There are 275 existing benches across the town. (Image: SWNS)

However, locals disagree with the plans.

Daniel Matthews, 40, said: “My mum and dad had a bench put up in memory of my nan who loved to look out to sea when she was alive.

“It was a nice place to sit and pay tribute to her but the bench started falling apart and eventually had to be removed.

“I don’t think it’s fair for the council to say Hartlepool has too many of these benches.”

“It’s a nice way to keep your memories of relatives alive.”

The authority has now paused all future applications and is suggesting tree planting as an alternative.

The authority say the benches can block access for wheelchair and pushchair users. (Image: SWNS)

Not everyone is opposed to the ban.

One mother, who did not wish to be named, said: “It’s a pain to be honest having to almost slalom the pushchair around all these benches when I’m taking my toddler out.

“Lots of these benches don’t just have a plaque either, there are sometimes photos and flowers and teddies.

“They’re becoming like graves rather than somewhere for people to sit on.”

Karl Barowsky, owner of Teak Garden Furniture, which supplies memorial benches, said: “When thoughtfully planned and positioned, memorial benches can sit comfortably within public spaces.

“They support reflection, wellbeing and everyday community use, and they can enhance parks and town centres rather than detract from them.”

Read more:

Karen Oliver, Chair of the council’s Housing, Growth and Communities Committee, said a recent audit identified 115 benches on the Headland, 112 on Seaton Promenade, and 48 in Ward Jackson Park.

She said: “We understand that our communities want to commemorate and remember loved ones, so we acknowledge that this is a very sensitive issue.

“We aim to engage with the owners of benches – where we have ownership information – to agree a sympathetic approach that minimises the need for the removal of benches.”