Improving Ilkley has announced that work has started on the fountain project at the top of Brook Street, and it is envisaged to take 8 weeks to complete this stage.
Dakins Developments Ltd, a local building contractor is managing this aspect of the works, and has supported the team with advice on how it can be delivered in the most cost-effective manner.
A fantastic fundraising initiative raised sufficient funds to commission the fountain and begin the engineering works. This week Dakins will begin the necessary preparatory elements at the Mill Ghyll site in anticipation of the fountain arrival, which is expected to be installed later this year. These vital initial steps will involve a total repair and part restoration of the fountain bowl area, and the installation of the gravity feed further up the Ghyll.
Louise Hepworth – Wood from Improving Ilkley told Ilkley Chat: “We are excited to share that the team are visiting our fountain fabricator James Wilkinson later this week. We will have the first glimpse of the fountain mid-construction, and will hopefully be able to bring you news imminently of its installation date.
“The project represents a full community initiative with initial seed funding provided by Ilkley BID, support from the landowner BDMC and latterly funding from ITC Green Spaces committee. In addition the project has been supported by over 20 local artists who donated works for auction, and over 150 individual donations from local businesses and residents. Any donation over £250 has a name included in the installation as a lasting testament of support.
“82 naming places have been filled by local individuals and families that wish to have their name permanently marked at the site. There are still some naming places available if you wish to be included. Please go and see our JustGiving site for further details. Additional funds are still required to fully deliver the project so any support would be gratefully received.”
The JustGiving site can be found at www.justgiving.com/campaign/improvingilkleyfountain