The bench stands in Gibbfield Close, Marks Gate
As reported by Time 107.5 on Monday, L&Q began asking residents for their thoughts on the bench over the weekend, after one person who lived on the street complained that it was hindering their attempts to move out.
Ricky’s parents slammed L&Q for not notifying them of the consultation, with Ricky’s mum Suzanne Hedges saying she would glue herself to the bench and the wall to stop it being removed.
Suzanne also called the housing association “disrespectful” and “heartless” while Ricky’s dad, Paul Hayden, said he felt like they’d gone behind the family’s back.
Family and friends began writing to L&Q to say the bench should remain there and, today, the company has contacted Ricky’s family to tell them it will be staying put.
A spokesperson for L&Q said: “We’re happy to confirm that we have spoken to Ricky’s family and the bench will not be removed. We’re sorry for the upset this has caused.”
Tags: Chadwell Heath, Barking and Dagenham, Marks Gate