Residents in a picturesque have hit out at their local council after "iconic" blue and white seaside benches were replaced by "awful" brown plastic alternatives. The original benches were painted in the colours of Kilkee's Gaelic games colours, the uniform worn by competitors in 's football and hurling competitions.

However, following damage to some of the structures, which overlook a sweeping stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way, around 20 of the seats were removed, with brown recycled plastic benches appearing in their place. One bench was removed from the town's esplanade, among its most popular spots, as well as near Kilkee's historical bandstand and a car park for the scenic George's Head walking trail, reports. While the change has been praised by councillors, locals have taken a harder line - insisting that a consultation should have been launched to gauge the popularity of the blue and white seats.

One resident asked on social media: "Anyone else wondering why the iconic blue and white wooden benches in front of the esplanade and elsewhere have and are being ripped out and replaced by these brown plastic things?"

"Was there a consultation with the town's people that I missed? They're awful. Are the rest of the wooden ones to be ripped out too?"

Another added: "The iconic blue ones were like a trademark. The people of Kilkee should have been allowed to decide."

A third person sid: "[I] cannot understand how the lovely, iconic benches with the Kilkee colouras are being ripped out.

"They could replace the planks with blue recycled plastic if painting is the issue."

"More of the Victorian look gone from Kilkee," a fourth complained. "Our bright blue and white benches replaced by brick-style dull-looking seats and tables. There [have] to be better solutions."

But non-party councillor Ian Lynch celebrated the new installations at the end of last month, praising their quick construction after structural issues with the original benches were highlighted.

"Got a call last week about damaged benches in Kilkee," he told his constituents on Facebook. "Spoke to the engineer and delighted to see [that] new benches and picnic tables have been installed."

Clare County Council has been contacted for comment.