Posted on: Monday 2 March 2026
Two hundred plaques are to be added to benches on walking and cycling routes to encourage people to stop and chat.
Earlier this month, primary and secondary school pupils were asked to design Happy to Chat plaques. A total of 90 designs were submitted which have been shortlisted.
Members of the public are now asked to vote for their favourite - with the top two to be transformed into plaques.
Cllr Mandy Owen, Executive Member for the Environment, said: "Active travel routes are networks that connect communities - we're hoping Happy to Chat benches will help to connect individuals.
"The health benefits of physical activity like walking and cycling are well known, but being outdoors has a positive impact on our mental and emotional well-being as well.
"Stopping and chatting to people - even if it's just about the weather - also has significant benefit for our mood and our sense of belonging."
You can vote for your favourite design by following Torfaen Council on Facebook. Voting closes on Sunday 8 March.
The winners will receive an Amazon voucher and a goody bag containing a water bottle, keyrings and stationery. The runners-up will also receive a goody bag.
The plaques will be added to benches along active travel routes and members of the public will be asked to suggest benches in their local area. Plaques will also be added to benches in school grounds.
The Happy to Chat bench plaques and prizes are funded by the council's Active Travel team.
Find out more about active travel in Torfaen