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The ‘Big Benches‘ bring numerous benefits to the surrounding area. Both the organisers and the municipal administrations are aware of this. The first one installed in the Oltrepò in Retorbido (2021) demonstrates the goodness of these ‘tourist magnets‘.
Included in the Big Bench Community Project, the Big Bench No. 124 in Retorbido was the first to be placed in the Oltrepò hills. Since 23 December 2021, many enthusiasts and the curious have reached it to enjoy a strategic vantage point on the "Colle delle Torricelle", a silent view that sweeps from the Maritime Alps to the Brescian Alps and the magnificent surrounding vineyards.
Since its inauguration to date, the area has grown in numbers and the multiplier effect has created further success and benefits.
The "Big Banch" is a non-profit initiative born in the Langhe and promoted by the American designer Chris Bangle who, ten years ago, created the BBCP brand with the aim of boosting the local economy and tourism thanks to a change of perspective linked to the size of the bench, which is able to enrapture those who sit down and live an immersive experience in the beauty of the landscape. Right from the start it has been able to demonstrate that these large benches create various benefits in the surrounding area such as, for example, contributing to increasing the prestige of the local area, representing a phenomenon of art and culture development, not to forget the contribution to socialisation and community interaction.
At this very moment there are 48 giant benches under construction, 305 existing Big Benches and 11,900.00 BBCP funds donated to the winning municipalities of non-profit projects
It should be pointed out immediately that the actual benefits of this tool can vary, and by a lot, depending on the specific context and implementation of the big benches. Indeed, analyses show that these installations contribute both to environmental awareness and to stimulating the local economy by creating a sense of pride and belonging in the community. The main objective of big benches is to provide a special place where one can relax, reflect and enjoy one‘s surroundings. Therefore, one must take the time to experience and appreciate what these particular benches have to offer.
To get concrete evidence on the economic impacts of large benches, it is necessary to evaluate the specific studies and market research done in the areas where these benches exist. The first fact that emerges clearly is that they are able to cause increases in visitor spending by generating a corresponding effect on the revenue of local businesses. The installation of ‘Big Benches‘ must be authorised by the Big Bench Community Project and only after their approval will one be recognised as part of the project and authorised to use the trademark.
As with any project, the cost-benefit ratio is decisive in the case of giant benches. It depends on several factors, including the cost of installing and maintaining the benches themselves, as well as the benefits of their presence and the returns on the facilities. If you are thinking in terms of sustainability, you will find that the model is definitely self-sustaining and benefit-generating. If this is combined with the opportunities periodically offered by Unioncamere or the Lombardy Region‘s Department of Tourism (in terms of contributions) then the cost-effectiveness in terms of territorial return takes on much greater effect.
www.bigbenchcommunity.project.orgrappresentare una attrazione turistica,
