Imagine investing thousands of pounds for a simple act of remembrance — and feeling that the cost might be unfair or excessive. But here’s where it gets controversial: recent debates have arisen over the rising prices for memorial benches in Torbay, a popular seaside area in Devon, prompting calls for a complete review of the pricing structure.
Councillors have expressed concern about the steep charges, which in some cases reach as high as £12,000 for a memorial bench. These prices mainly apply to premium locations, where benches are placed in highly sought-after spots like Babbacombe Downs or Torre Abbey Gardens, with a typical leasing period of 25 years. Meanwhile, more modest prices of around £8,000 are set for locations such as Paignton seafront or Battery Gardens in Brixham.
This issue has caught political attention, with Liberal Democrat councillors Swithin Long, representing Barton with Watcombe, and Mandy Darling, representing Tormohun, putting forward a motion urging the council to reconsider and adjust these fees.
In defense, Torbay Council explained that the higher costs are necessary to fund the provision of higher-quality benches that are durable and long-lasting, emphasizing that these are considered 'high quality installations'.
To put things into perspective, the same service in nearby areas is significantly cheaper: in South Hams, a bench with a commemorative plaque and upkeep costs around £1,680 for a decade, covering maintenance and repainting every four to six years. Similarly, in Teignbridge, residents face charges up to £1,885 for installation and ten-year maintenance. In London’s Westminster City Council, the expense is about £1,625 for 10 years in prime locations—remarkably less than Torbay’s prices.
The two councillors’ motion calls for the removal of what they refer to as the 'two-tier zone system', which they believe unfairly inflates prices in certain areas. They propose a comprehensive review, suggesting a simplified, 15-year sponsorship model that includes a review period at which stakeholders can decide whether to renew or make additional improvements.
Their proposal aims for more 'affordable and reasonable' pricing, ensuring that costs are fair but still cover fundamental expenses of installation and ongoing maintenance. They recommend a flat rate between £2,200 and £2,400 for a 15-year sponsorship that would apply uniformly across all locations in Torbay.
This debate highlights a broader question: should memorials, like benches, be priced based on location and perceived prestige, or should they be more accessible to everyone? And this is the part most people might miss — how do we balance respecting individual memories with fairness and affordability for the community?
What do you think? Should the council standardize pricing to make memorial benches more accessible, or do premium locations justify the higher costs? Share your thoughts below, as this issue touches on fairness, community values, and how we honor loved ones.
