Rushden Lakes uses the expertise of Kettering artist to launch new 'Happy to Chat' benches

Rushden Lakes is doing its bit to curb loneliness with the emergence of two ‘Happy to Chat’ benches in Garden Square.

The benches offer people the opportunity to take a break from shopping at the area’s many retail stores, exploring Nene Wetlands, or enjoying a meal at one of its restaurants and eateries by engaging in conversation with willing passers-by.

Rushden Lakes hopes that the benches provoke spontaneous interactions between people who may not have chatted to anyone in a while, aiming to combat loneliness and isolation.

Donna French, centre manager at Rushden Lakes said: “We are delighted to launch our Happy to Chat benches in Garden Square which offer a relaxed space to encourage chatting amongst strangers who may not have talked to anyone in a while.

"We feel they are a simple way of signalling to others that you’re happy to connect with a conversation or even just a smile.

“We hope our visitors will enjoy and benefit from this additional feature and it was a pleasure to partner with Kennedys Letters on this project.”

She added: "Community remains at the heart of Rushden Lakes and therefore we are so pleased that we can now offer our visitors a dedicated space where they can connect with one another.

“Our Garden Square is a warm and open environment that offers people the chance to step back, relax and feel at ease and we are hoping that our new ‘Happy to chat’ benches and artwork further enhance the calming atmosphere of the area and encourage even more positive interaction between people in our community.”

Donna French came up with the idea after chatting to the team in Mooch.

Two benches were designed by Kettering-based artist Gary Kennedy (Kennedys Letters), who’s impressive resume of graphic art includes the inside of Rushden Lakes’ new Butterwick store and the branding of Wythmails in Orlingbury.

The ‘Happy to Chat’ benches are in Garden Square, a small corner of Rushden Lakes that includes independent and High Street stores.

If you fancy a chat while waiting for friends, resting after a long day shopping, or simply because you’re eager to meet friendly people, the benches are always available.