Big bottomed Brits are responsible for the increasing size of street and park benches.
Experts say local authorities are specifying “oversized” benches as obesity in the UK continues to rise.
There are currently 15 million obese people in Britain, a figure expected to rise to 26 million by 2030, a rise of 73 per cent.
Jonathan Goss, managing director of Nottinghamshire-based street furniture manufacturer Townscape Products told The Landscaper
“It appears the size of a seat isn’t just an issue on trains, buses and planes. Architects and councils are considering bigger seats and benches to satisfy larger users and to also make the sitting experience more enjoyable for average sized members of the public sat next to obese people. Thankfully our materials are strong enough to ensure our seats and benches never warp under the weight.
“It is perhaps unsurprising that the majority of our biggest benches and seats are installed on high streets where there are a high proportion of fast food outlets. Those enjoying a walk or jog in the park are still likely to take rest on a standard sized seat.” Oxford University found that the average weight of a man in the UK rose by 7.7kg in 15 years between 1986 and 2000 caused by an increase in food intake coupled with a reduction in physical exercise.
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Townscape products was established in 1974 and is a UK manufacturer and supplier of street furniture and paving. Townscape manufactures and supplies bollards, seats, planters, litter bins, tree grids and guards, cycle racks and shelters, barriers and rails, paving, and security products Townscape street furniture can be made from steel, stainless steel, aluminium, cast iron, concrete, polymer, and timber.