Locals puzzled by new bench placement facing abandoned site

A recently installed bench has caused bewilderment among residents in Shirehampton, Bristol, due to its unusual positioning directly facing an abandoned building and damaged greenhouses. The bench was placed this week outside the location of the former Nurserymen Florists. Sam Wilmot, a social media bench reviewer, commented, “I wasn’t sure at first if it was a Halloween spectacle, given the time of year and the abandoned house it looks on.” Bristol City Council has been contacted for a statement regarding the installation, which local residents have described as both “ridiculous” and “hilarious.” Mr. Wilmot, aged 27, operates the well-known social media account Rate This Bench, and stated that the bench itself appeared “quite pleasant.” He travels across Bristol and the south-west of England, providing reviews of various benches with a lighthearted approach. Mr. Wilmot mentioned that numerous individuals had tagged him in a social media post concerning the bench. “It’s one of those benches that’s keeping with the idea that benches are for sitting rather than for the view,” he remarked. The Nurserymen Florists ceased operations in the 1970s; however, the commercial greenhouses remained active until the neglected plot was ultimately sold in 2021 for approximately £1 million. This abandoned location is situated within a conservation area, comprising a period villa and an extensive complex of commercial greenhouses. Stokes Morgan Planning has reportedly designated the plot for future development, acting on behalf of its owners. The submitted planning application proposes to redevelop the land into 18 houses and three apartments, although no apparent progress has been observed to date. Mr. Wilmot explained that he initially began reviewing benches for amusement with his university friends, but the public’s interest grew due to the “lighthearted humour.” “Every now and again, people need a feel-good factor,” he stated. He added, “I think I’ll go and review the Shirehampton bench. I got tagged in it by members of the public, so I owe it to the people to give them what they want.” For updates, follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.