[joeysteele]

This is interesting as are the views on it expressed here too.

No one knows who did this, therefore it can only be assumptions as to why whoever did.
However it would appear no other benches were painted over, only this one with a rainbow pattern on it.
I'd say it's fair to assume in that case, that since the rainbow image IS associated with the gay communities, that the probable reason for this rainbow imaged bench being painted over, was from a more likely homophobic thinking and action.

As to comments about plaques on benches, I've sat on benches and not even realised there was a plaque on them.
I'd doubt anyone seeing the rainbow and being probably more homophobic would even read the plaque anyhow.
However IF it wasn't done from a prejudicial homophobic thinking, then why on earth would anyone else even think about painting over this bench, never mind actually doing so.