IF BRUTALISM is your sort of thing, perhaps you would be quite happy with the placement of the bench at the new Town Mills development.

But as leader of the council, Cllr Phil North, points out, many would much rather face the river.

The Test Valley Borough Council representative raised smiles from residents this week as he shared an update on the current work to transform the area into a new riverside park.

One of new benches had been installed incorrectly - facing the brick wall of the Wilko building as opposed to the free-flowing river.

The council leader joked: "Whilst it’s not unusual to experience some issues on a construction project, I couldn’t quite believe it when I visited the site on Tuesday. Maybe the contractors are just fans of 1960s architecture!

He added: "Suffice to say, I immediately raised it with council officers, who had already arranged a snagging walkabout for this morning anyway. Some snag!

"Obviously they have been fitted incorrectly. They were, of course, always designed to face the river. I’m pleased to confirm that the bench company themselves are visiting the site next week to fix the issue at no extra cost. The armrests will also be installed at the same time.

He continued: "Whilst this is mildly embarrassing, overall I think the area is looking really smart - and will be transformed yet further once the grass has been laid next week."

The leader said a number of residents had been in touch in recent days about the benches facing the wrong way.

The project, which has seen new walkways constructed as well as the creation of a new riverside park, will be finished by spring, according to the council.

Residents online were left chuckling over the error, with one writing: "This really made me laugh."

Another added: "Should've gone to Specsavers."