Spring start likely for £250,000 water project

Ten major spouts and numerous smaller ones are due to get a facelift as part of the £250,000 project, paid for by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The association has spent the past three years liaising with the public, landowners, parish councils and conservation officers and is now preparing to begin work.

Spa association chairwoman Carly Tinkler said: "People have gone round drawing up specifications and costings for the programme.

"The project now has to go out to tender, to find a contractor to carry out the work. We also have to liaise a little bit more with the public, but we hope to start work in the spring."

Ms Tinkler said the association had drawn up a list of spouts for restoration and had divided them up into major and minor projects.

Lord Sandys' spout, on Spring Lane, is one of the ten major ones. It was erected in the 19th Century by Lord Sandys of Ombersley, who used to drink from it every morning. It features a bronze lion head and a white tiled basin and surround.

"It's very hidden away and is in a very untidy and overgrown state," said Ms Tinkler.

Lower Wyche Spout, on Old Wyche Road, will also undergo a facelift, with improvements to drainage, the installation of a tap and renovation of pipe work.

Work will be carried out on Earl Beauchamp's Spout, spouts at Westminster Bank in West Malvern, Wynds Point, British Camp and Jubilee Fountain.

The Clock Tower in North Malvern and St Annes Well will also undergo extensive repairs and maintenance work. Work at Hayslad Spout, Barnards Green Fountain and Willow Spring, in Colwall, are among the smaller projects planned.

The association is looking for volunteers to help carry out restoration work when the project gets started.

"We've been waiting for three years and we can't wait to get going," said Ms Tinkler. "There's so much enthusiasm for the project."

Anyone wishing help with the work, or research, should contact Carly Tinkler on 01684 565804.