NEW ‘parklet’ benches in Halesowen town centre have been welcomed by Halesowen Business Improvement District (BID) and a top local councillor.

The new benches, which feature seating alongside planters, have been unveiled in the town centre in time for spring.

They were installed as part of Halesowen’s ‘Welcome Back’ funding from central Government.

Belle Vale Councillor Simon Phipps welcomed the benches, that were ready for Saturday’s successful ‘Welcome Back’ event, which featured a market and baking demonstrations from Great British Bake Off contestant, Terry Harthill.

Cllr Phipps said: “Making sure the Government’s Welcome Back funding was spent in Halesowen in a way to encourage people to visit, stay and enjoy our town centre was really important.

"I hope local residents and visitors will enjoy the new seating areas.

“They are in addition to excellent Halesowen BID initiatives like the Friendly Bench.

"Vicky Rogers and her team really have helped transform the fortunes of Halesowen.

"The fact that Halesowen was the best performing town centre in recovering from the pandemic is in no small part down to their hard work.

"I would encourage all local businesses in the BID area to vote yes when they are balloted on the BID’s future in a few months.”

Halesowen Business Improvement District Manager, Vicky Rogers, said: “We have worked hard throughout the BIDs first term to develop a town centre that is thriving, attracting visitors both old and new.

“We have only scratched the surface over the last few years and with the support of local business we want to continue this work, encouraging people to shop and buy local so we can grow our economy stronger and stronger.

“Halesowen BIDs motto is ‘together we’re stronger’ and that’s absolutely right.

"Let’s see what we can achieve together over the next five years by local businesses voting yes!”