Thank you for the points you make.
Can I then assume b) is syntactically ambiguous as (the syntax, or grammar, can be understood in more than one way)
"The box already on the table, and to be put in the kitchen? Alternatively, is the box to be put on the table, which is in the kitchen?"
However, in sentence a) is ?'bank' not equally ambiguous as it could mean blood, sand, river etc.