Rubbish Rant – Public Benches (From Rubbish Talk episode 2)

In episode 2 of Rubbish Talk we discussed briefly the growing trend towards putting flowers, wreaths and mementos on public seats.

Alasdair expressed the view that it is great that people donate benches (usually in memory of a loved one) for use in public spaces. However he was strongly of the opinion that that did not give the people who donated the bench to use it as their own public shrine and place items on it, which would appear to be an increasing trend.

Just to prove his point, Alasdair managed to find this example which prevents anyone using the bench.

What do you think – is this reasonable?

Many people will probably say a small bunch of flowers or small wreath is fine and not too intrusive.

But who is responsible for cleaning it away? The person who placed it or the council?

If the council remove it will they get hassle for removing something which maybe has sentimental value?

Here is an example of a Christmas decoration still in place at end of February.

The rest of the Albion team disagreed and stated they hadn’t considered the issue before, or wouldn’t think they would be bothered by it. But is there a limit? If it restricts people (who may need it) from sitting on the bench, is that when it’s taken too far?

We would love to hear your thoughts on this in the comments below!