A PETITION by local residents has put the dampeners on plans to install a memorial bench in Portishead.

Silver birch trees were recently planted on the green at the top of Roath Road where it meets Slade Road, as a tribute to Squadron Leader Tommy Broom, who died last year aged 96.

The World War II veteran, involved in 83 sorties and awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross three times, was born in a cottage that once stood on the site.

Members of Portishead Royal British Legion thought it would be a fitting tribute to place a permanent bench on the spot in his memory, but residents living nearby fear it will result in the escalation of litter and antisocial behaviour.

Speaking at the town council meeting earlier this month, Ron Hazelton, who lives close to the green in Roath Road, said residents already suffer from noise, litter and damage problems caused by people returning home from nights out at the local pubs and they feel the bench would be used as a stop-off point for these people.

He said: “A number of houses in the area, both in Roath Road and Slade Road, overlook the green and we are concerned they will be disturbed if this bench goes in.”

Town councillors agreed to carry out further consultation with residents before a final decision is made.