RESIDENTS are opposing plans to tear down shelters at a Newquay beauty spot to make way for benches.

Cornwall Council says it is replacing two shelters at the Barrowfields as they are “regularly affected by vandalism and antisocial behaviour”.

The unitary authority also claims the shelters have reached the end of their “useful life” and have needed ongoing maintenance.

The council says the new seating will provide accessible places to sit and enjoy the open space, while creating a “safer” and more “welcoming environment” for visitors.

But some residents have objected to the idea as they would prefer to have a shelter at the Barrowfields rather than benches in case it rains when they are visiting. They would also like Cornwall Council to carry out public consultation on its plan before replacing the shelters.

Richard Rundle said: “What a terrible idea by Cornwall Council. How is new seating making the Barrowfields more accessible? It will be less accessible without the shelters during adverse weather conditions. Why not consult with Newquay residents first and see if the majority actually want these removed.”

Richard Martyn added: “This is an absolute joke.

“As for vandalism and anti-social behaviour maybe a police patrol from time to time or CCTV would be beneficial. The cost of that monument on the Barrowfields probably could have repaired or replaced both of the shelters.”

Abigail Wentworth said: “I used one of the shelters last winter to wait out a thunderstorm. I hope this isn't approved.”

A Cornwall Council spokesperson said: “We know that many residents and visitors value Barrowfields as a place to spend time outdoors. To ensure the area remains a safe, welcoming and enjoyable space for everyone, we will be removing the two existing shelters and replacing them with new benches.

“The new seating will provide accessible places to sit and enjoy the open space, while creating a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone who visits the area.

“The existing shelters have reached the end of their useful life and have needed ongoing maintenance. They have also been regularly affected by vandalism and antisocial behaviour. In addition, storm damage has become a regular issue, with parts of the structures currently fenced off for safety reasons.

“The new benches will provide continued seating for visitors while creating a safer, more sustainable space. We would like to thank everyone for their patience and cooperation while the work takes place.”

Cornwall Council is keen to hear from people about what other improvements they would like to see at the Barrowfields. It follows the cycle and pedestrian path being extended and new beds being created within the Space for Nature sites there.

A modern monolith sculpture created by artist Robin Sullivan and the community has also been unveiled. The Newquay Monolith project aims to create new communal points to showcase the town’s heritage, archaeological past, and contemporary communities.

A spokesperson said: “We would like people to tell what they enjoy about Barrowfields and how they’d like it to be cared for in the future.”