A grant of £5,000 for repairs to a drinking fountain in the centre of Bear Flat in Bath has been announced as part of a wider project to improve the area.
Bear Flat Environment, a newly formed Charitable Incorporated Organisation, has been awarded the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) grant by Bath & North East Somerset Council for the works to the fountain at The Gore.
The Gore is home to a Grade II Victoria Diamond Jubilee drinking fountain which is falling into disrepair.
The funding will enable stonework repairs to be undertaken to prevent further deterioration, and help improve the image of the area.
The project is part of Bear Flat Association’s vision to make Bear Flat more welcoming, greener and safer for residents and to attract more trade for businesses.
CIL funding is awarded by the council to projects which will improve existing facilities to benefit local people.
Councillor Jess David, cabinet assistant for Neighbourhood Services, said: “Small projects like these improvements to Bear Flat drinking fountain are so important in giving local areas a lift for the community to benefit from.
“As part of the wider project it’s going to improve the image of The Gore for residents and for people passing through, encouraging local trade.”
Gareth Somerset, chair of Bear Flat Environment, said: “The fountain is situated close to the centre of Bear Flat but has been in a state of disrepair for many years.
“The Neighbourhood CIL grant will allow much needed and essential repairs to take place to preserve this piece of local history and to enhance the centre of our community”
Winston Duguid, ward councillor for Widcombe & Lyncombe, added: “I am delighted at this decision. Much is talked about our Roman and Georgian heritage in Bath; here is an example of Victorian heritage, which should not be forgotten.”
