Ingenious locals made mobile ‘wheelbarrow’ benches for French village

If a bench isn’t in the right place for you – move it.

That’s what they now do in one French village, thanks to the ingenuity of locals.

Tréclun, a village of 500 inhabitants in Burgundy, has introduced benches with a wheel and two handles so locals can move them where they wish.

It is just like pushing a wheelbarrow.

Plans for more

Mayor Sébastien Sordel said: “A bench is never in the right place, depending on the sun and people’s needs.

“The idea is for the equipment to adapt to usage, not the other way around.”

Two of the benches have appeared in the village so far, with plans for at least two more, and they have already proved a hit.

Dozens of people have taken to the town hall’s Facebook page to praise the initiative.

“They are never in the same place from one day to the next,” Mr Sordel said.

Trust in community spirit

Like much of the street furniture in the commune, from bus shelters to gates to planters, the benches were made by local volunteers.

Bus shelters were also built by locals; Photo: Mairie of Tréclun

“This allows a village to remind people that everything is collective.

“If we want people to claim ownership of things, they need to have participated.”

It is in this community spirit that the village has placed its trust.

“The benches are marked with the name of the town hall.

“We are a small village – the residents are the first to be watchful. If somebody tried to take them, they would step in.”

The bespoke creations also come with a smaller price tag.

“A simple public bench is worth €900. We were able to make two for €300.”

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