Memorial benches

Contents

  1. Overview
  2. Choosing a location
  3. Prices
  4. Apply for a memorial bench
  5. Using the memorial bench
  6. Maintaining the bench
  7. Contact us

Overview

We understand how difficult it is losing someone close to you. Some people may wish to remember loved ones by placing a memorial bench.

New memorial benches can be placed in some green spaces, parks and seafront areas in the Borough. Alternatively, where appropriate, you can add a memorial plaque to an existing bench.

Wording for plaque

Plaque wordings can be a maximum of 7 lines with 40 characters per line; this includes commas and spaces etc.

Below is a template you can complete to help you with the wording for the plaque.

Memorial bench plaque wording template

Choosing a location for your memorial bench

Let us know which green spaces, parks and seafront area you would like the bench to be fitted. 

We will then work with you to decide the most suitable location for the bench.

See below for a full list of parks, green spaces and seafront areas:

Prices

The cost to supply and install a wood / metal bench and plaque is £1,200 including VAT.

The cost to add a plaque to an existing bench is £200 including VAT.

Apply for a memorial bench

To apply for a memorial bench, complete the online application form:

Apply for a memorial bench

View the privacy notice.

After you've applied for a memorial bench

Once you have applied, we will review your request and get in touch with you to:

  • confirm the wording on the plaque
  • arrange payment
  • discuss the location

If your chosen location has not been approved, we will suggest a different location for your bench.

We will let you know when the bench and / or plaque has been installed. This can take up to 16 weeks.

Please note: the design and costs can change without notice.

Using the memorial bench

Anyone can sit on the bench.

If you want to place flowers or mementos on the seat, we would recommend that these don't block the use of the bench.

Please remove old and decaying flowers or mementos from the bench when appropriate.

Maintaining the bench

Due to the location of the benches, especially those on the coast, it is possible that they may become damaged over time.

If the seat deteriorates or becomes damaged beyond reasonable repair, we are under no commitment to repair, replace or to carry out regular painting of the benches.

It is possible that the areas where the benches are placed will be redesigned or refurbished in the future.

Every effort will be made to keep or maintain the bench, but we cannot guarantee that it will not be moved or completely removed.

We are not responsible for the cost of any replacement.

Contact us

For more information please contact memorialbenches@southtyneside.gov.uk