The Bournemouth Town Centre BID is rolling out more public benches across Bournemouth town centre to make the area easier to visit. The expansion of the ‘Take A Seat’ project was announced on 8 February 2026 to help people who need a place to rest while they are out shopping.
The new outdoor seats will be placed in busy areas including Westover Road, Old Christchurch Road, The Triangle, and Commercial Road. This change follows a successful trial in 2024 where local businesses such as Bobby’s Beauty, Naked Coffee and Howden Insurance offered indoor seating to customers who needed a short break.
BCP Council is supporting the move to help older residents and parents with young children feel more comfortable in the town centre. Organisers say that having more places to sit encourages visitors to stay longer, which helps trade for local shops and cafés.
The project is funded through the BID levy as part of Bournemouth Town Centre BID’s five-year (2022–2027) investment plan (around £3 million), paid by levy‑paying businesses. By making the town centre more accessible, Bournemouth is working to support residents of all ages and make the high street more hospitable.
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