Anger over Torbay memorial bench prices

Bay benches cost more than Westminster

Torbay Council has been urged to think again over the amount it charges for memorial plaques and benches amid anger over a ‘two-tier’ system.

A bench in a prime tourist location in Torquay costs up to £12,000 for one with 25 years of maintenance  – far more than neighbouring councils charge.

Westminster Council, which puts benches in some of the most prestigious locations in London, charges £1,625 to supply, install, maintain and put a plaque on a bench for 10 years.

“It’s a two-tier system,” said Torbay councillor Darren Cowell (Ind, Shiphay), who leads the authority’s independent group. “Those who can afford to fork out up to £12,000 can have a bench. The rest of us just end up with a plaque.

“I can’t find anywhere more expensive than Torbay.”

The council’s website says: “Our memorial benches offer a lasting tribute, providing a place of reflection and remembrance for years to come.”

An exclusive bench for 25 years in a prime tourist location such as Babbacombe Downs or Torre Abbey Gardens costs £12,000, but that includes maintenance, cleaning and replacements if the bench or its plaque are damaged beyond repair.

A 25-year deal for a bench in a less favoured location, such as Paignton seafront or Battery Gardens at Brixham, costs £8,000.

Five-year sponsorships are available at reduced costs – £2,400 in premium ‘Zone One’ spots and £1,600 in ‘Zone Two’ – as are plaques on shared benches which cost £850 each.

In neighbouring Teignbridge and South Hams the benches and plaques are considerably cheaper.

Teignbridge Council charges £1,795 to install and maintain a bench with a plaque, although some areas such as Dawlish and Dawlish Warren have no room left for new benches.

The benches are expected to last at least 10 years.

In South Hams a bench with a plaque and 10 years of maintenance costs £1,680.

Cllr Cowell said Torbay’s new tariff of charges had not been discussed in full council, and he would be tabling a motion for a review at the next available meeting.

“There has been no debate on the rationale for the new structure,” he said. “There must be a review, with a review to returning it to what it was.”

Torbay Council has been invited to comment.

Its website says: “Due to the anticipated high demand for our memorial benches, we offer shared sponsorship opportunities. Each bench can accommodate up to three plaques, allowing multiple families to share in the dedication.

“Our benches are high quality, designed for public open spaces and are as robust as possible for high use and demand. They are not standard timber garden benches.”