PASSENGER benches are to be removed from areas of Grimsby town centre where they have become a gathering-point for troublemakers.
With work due to start on Monday, the first to go will be those at bus stands C, D, E and F at the Riverhead Exchange.
It is a controversial initiative which may dismay the elderly or infirm and those not steady on their feet.
But North East Lincolnshire Council says it has been prompted by residents and bus passengers who have complained of dunken and other anti-social behaviour.
Humberside police are understood to be extremely supportive of the project.
The works are expected to take two weeks during which time the bus stops will remain operational.
Says NELC's portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, Cllr Ron Shepherd: “The bus shelter benches in the Riverhead Exchange have proved difficult to maintain and have become a safety hazard.
“The area has been subject to anti-social behaviour which has included groups of street drinkers gathering and causing intimidation towards members of the public waiting for a bus, glass getting stuck in the wooden bench slats and rubbish accumulating at the back of the benches.
“Council workers have continued to engage with groups that congregate, clean the benches and remove any potential hazards, but it has become a recurring issue which is deemed unreasonable for the public.
“We have decided to remove some of the benches, with the public’s safety and comfort being of paramount importance.”
NELC's regeneration partner, Engie, will be managing and overseeing the works with local contractor, Southam Services, completing the works.
It is not known what will happen to the benches.
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