NATTER BENCH

The Natter Bench was installed in Horsforth Hall Park in response to a discussion on a Facebook community group after a resident stopped someone in the park to ask if they would mind sitting to have a ‘chat’ as the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions were starting to be eased.

To support residents, many of whom were socially isolated, ward councillors ordered the 2.4m bench to allow for socially distanced chats. The bench is accompanied by a sign encouraging those who would like a natter with someone to sit and make a new friend, whilst allowing for a passer-by to take some time out and speak with someone who may be feeling in need of some company.

Wording for the sign also came through the community, with Horsforth’s Asset Based Community Development worker Claire Evans, Rev Nigel Sinclair from St Margaret’s Church, Sally Metcalfe from MHA Communities, and Kezia Roberts from the Walk of Art coming together to create the right message. 

The area around the Natter Bench has been enhanced with planting by Horsforth in Bloom, including the Tulip tree they purchased as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy, marking the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.  It has become a landmark in the park, you can’t walk past it if someone is sat on their own.