Brentwood and Shenfield Welcome New Street Furniture
Council begins programme of public realm improvements with installation of 30 contemporary wooden benches.
By Rebecca Flint
••2 min read
AI
A new contemporary wooden bench installed in a town centre as part of public realm improvements.
Brentwood and Shenfield town centres are set to benefit from new street furniture, with Brentwood Borough Council commencing a programme of public realm enhancements.
Residents and visitors will soon enjoy enhanced public spaces with the installation of 30 contemporary wooden benches across Brentwood and Shenfield town centres. This initiative is part of a broader town centre improvement scheme by Brentwood Borough Council, which also includes new wayfinding signage.
The phased installation is already underway, with new benches appearing in Brentwood Town Centre before work commences in Shenfield. To minimise disruption, existing benches were removed and immediately replaced, ensuring continuous availability of seating.
The new benches, constructed from high-quality iroko hardwood, are designed to be attractive, durable, and comfortable. Their natural resistance to rot and mould makes them suitable for long-term outdoor use, and they feature supportive backrests and armrests for accessibility and practicality.
Further enhancements are planned for early 2027, when some benches will feature bespoke artistic panels on their backrests, showcasing commissioned artwork that celebrates local identity and heritage. More details on this artwork programme will be announced later.
Existing memorial plaques on benches will be carefully transferred to the new seating in the same locations, preserving these commemorations. The project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
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"These new benches are a simple but important investment in our public spaces. They will provide residents and visitors with comfortable, attractive places to rest while spending time in Brentwood and Shenfield town centres. By choosing a durable, high-quality product, we are ensuring that the Council delivers value for money while enhancing the appearance and usability of our town centres for many years to come. I am particularly pleased that memorial plaques will be retained and transferred to the new benches, preserving their importance for local families and our wider community."
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"High-quality public spaces play an important role in creating vibrant and welcoming town centres. These new benches will improve the experience for residents, shoppers and visitors, encouraging people to spend more time in Brentwood and Shenfield. This project shows how external funding, including the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, is helping us invest in local infrastructure and improve our town centres. Alongside new wayfinding signage, the benches will help Brentwood feel more welcoming, connected and distinctive."
