Fountain venue still uncertain (From Stroud News and Journal)

Fountain venue still uncertain

PLANS to move Nailsworth's historic fountain are going ahead but the new venue is still uncertain. A cost feasibility study to restore the town's crumbling monument was carried out in 1997.

Architects, Bertosch and Stokes estimated the cost of dismantling, cleaning and restoration at around 20,000.

An estimated further 20,000 to relocate the fountain to a more suitable home has prompted anger in some circles of the town who feel that 40,000 is too much money out of an annual town council precept of 100,000.

The fountain was built in 1862 when the main mode of transport was horse and cart.

It has been moved on three occasions and is currently in Old Market on the corner of the bus station.

But Cllr John Nicholson, mayor of Nailsworth defended the council's decision to spend the money on the town's listed monument.

"When the council spends money we look to do the best we can for all areas of the town," he said.

"The fountain is crumbling and the last time it was moved the plinth was smashed and needs replacing.

"The idea to move it is to help regenerate Market Street and to put this wonderful monument in a more appropriate place."

In July 1997, a questionnaire in the council's newsletter The Fountain was aimed at identifying a new home for the Nailsworth landmark.

The response from the town showed overwhelming approval for it to be moved to the junction of Market Street and Fountain Street.

Cllr Nicholson explained: "Over the four years since the survey the council has been accumulating the money to pay for this.

"It is a major project and we will not take the cost out of one year's precept."

Plans for the Fountain include a water supply and night time illumination within a completely revamped garden providing seating and wheelchair access.

Fountain Street has also been suggested as a possible location on land currently being developed by Colburn Homes.

Director, Martin Evans said: "We wouldn't want it to become a meeting place but we would be happy to discuss any options that are open to us."

"As yet no-one has approached us."