PUBLIC benches have been removed in Oxford and replaced with bike spaces after they became a haven for drug addicts and 'intimidating' street drinkers, the council says.

Workmen removed the two benches in Gloucester Street, near Gloucester Green, on Saturday.

A staff member at a nearby cafe said he was told the benches were removed because of the drinkers.

He said: “The homeless were drinking alcohol there during the day - it was becoming a real problem.”

One resident, who asked not to be named, complained after the benches were removed and said he experienced problems walking long distances so needed benches to take regular rests.

Tom Hayes, executive board member for a safer and greener environment, said: “Over the weekend, working in partnership with Thames Valley Police, we removed two benches from Gloucester Street, near Friar’s Entry, to stop prolific and years-long antisocial behaviour.

“We have been hearing concerns from residents, business owners and tourists about racial abuse, intimidation, abuse of customers, and drug taking and dealing from several users of the benches. NewRiver, which manages Gloucester Green, is currently installing four new benches in Gloucester Green. These, alongside the benches around the trees in the square, aim to ensure disabled people, the less mobile, and the elderly continue to have somewhere to stop and rest. We want Oxford’s city centre to be safe and accessible for absolutely everyone.”

Simon Hunt, a spokesman for Oxford-based cycling group Cyclox, said more cycle racks were needed in the city.

But he added: “I don’t think public benches should be removed so that more spaces for bikes can be added - that simply isn’t necessary.”

Earlier this year Oxford’s Green Party criticised the Westgate Centre for what it claimed were benches designed to deter rough sleepers.

But the Westgate Alliance said its benches near the centre’s Bonn Square entrance - with back rests and handrails - were in fact designed to provide extra assistance for the elderly or those with mobility issues.

Psychology student Amber Stokes, 19, who lives near Wheatley, said benches in the city centre should not be removed.

She added: “People need them when they want to take a break or are waiting for a bus, particularly the elderly.”