A homeowner has complained that the placement of a bench invades his family’s privacy.

The seat, on a patch of grass outside Jonathan and Jo Westbrook’s home in Golden Square, Tenterden, is for people to rest while walking to and from town.

It was recently moved by Tenterden Town Council as it was on a spot on the grass that was too wet – but the Westbrooks say they were not consulted.

“It is facing directly into our house,” said Mr Westbrook at a town council meeting on Monday.

“Most of our living space is at the front, including our bedroom and that of our daughter.

“It is very uncomfortable for us and very intrusive. People can see straight into our house.

“The bench may be for people to rest, but we had a man sitting there for over an hour and a half using his laptop.”

Mr Westbrook was speaking at a highways and amenities committee. He has complained to the council about the sitting of the bench.

“It is very uncomfortable for us and very intrusive. People can see straight into our house" - homeowner Jonathan Westbrook

“We seem to be allowing people the opportunity to look into our property,” he said.

“There has always been a bench there, but previously it was about 15 yards away.

“This seems like the wrong place and I wonder why it was put there. We did not have any consultation.”

Committee chairman Cllr Emma Hannett said the bench’s previous location was too wet and muddy.

“We had reports that it was a hazard for the elderly,” she said.

“There are lots of benches in High Street that are in direct view of peoples’ houses.”

Mr Westbrook suggested the bench could be turned round to face towards High Street.

The committee agreed to discuss that at its next meeting.

After the meeting, Mrs Westbrook said people used the bench for picnics, drinking and as a meeting place.

“I understand people taking a rest there, but that is not what it is being used for,” she said.

“We have had people having picnics and often have to clear away beer cans.

“In the winter, the trees outside the house are bare so people can see into our bedrooms.”

The bench is in memory of Marjorie Hudson, who died in 1993 aged 81.