Town council agrees 'time to shift the seat of power to people of Atherstone' in Goldie's bench saga

People power has been offered a seat at the top table of Atherstone's civic leaders before the next resting places for two popular town-centre benches are finalised.

Town councilors have agreed the need to involve the public in any decision-making process after facing backlash in a social media meltdown following their removal for a "trial period".

The disappearance of the street furniture from their long-term locations in the centre of the town – outside the Nationwide and Red Lion Hotel – proved highly controversial with threats of a petition, and even a council tax revolt, surfacing.

Sympathisers of the group of four of five people – thought to be led by a popular local known to all as 'Goldie' – took to the Atherstone People's Forum complaining "Who stole Goldie's bench?"

Local observers felt the town council's measures would also affect the elderly who use the seats to "catch their breath" while walking through the town centre.

So the town council has decided to seek opinions before taking any action – even after a renewed wave of public complaints about anti-social behaviour associated around them.

Caught between a "rock and a hard place" after people were again telling councillors they wanted the benches moving as they felt intimidated by youngsters congregating by the Red Lion and facing "undesirable types" next to the Nationwide bank's cash machine, town council chairman David Wright said the public must be consulted.

Councillor Wright added: "Clearly it makes sense to ask the people where they want [them].

"We must ask the very people who asked us to move [them]."

The public process was suggested by Atherstone Central Councillor Jacky Chambers, proposing a small consultation group .

She told the full town council meeting: "We need to engage with local people and ask them where the best place is – and be open about where they go.

"A top-down decision on this is perhaps a good idea."

Possible locations in Long Street include near the Old Post Office and Toffs as well as two vacant spots earmarked in Market Square.

Councillor Chambers called for retail business, forums and older residents all to be involved.