Stealth cuts in Bedford Park

Benches have been disappearing from Bedford Park, neither for maintenance reasons nor with intention to replace them. It is yet another stealth cut. Benches are being permanently removed without the public (or councillors) being told or consulted. On Wednesday 26th February, Cllr Sawyer (De Parys) secured a commitment that no more benches will be removed without consultation. Sadly, the Council’s Conservative Executive seemed unaware of what was going on. 
Cllr Sawyer said, 
‘Benches provide valuable amenity to residents, enjoying the park or pausing with their shopping before heading home.  Our parks are jewels in Bedford’s crown, and any attempt to remove the benches is petty and penny pinching. Residents will be rightfully dismayed at this Conservative Mayor’s inability to provide and maintain the very basics.’