Upset over state of ‘beloved’ Wisbech pond and fountain
It’s had £1,000s spent on it over the years after numerous vandal attacks but people are now asking if it is time for a town’s beloved pond and fountain to go.
Alan Wheeldon, a leading volunteer with the town’s In Bloom and Street Pride, posted an image of the fountain in St Peter’s Garden complete with a dumped cycle thrown it with the comment: “I think it's finally time that we rethink the fate of 'the fountain' in St Peter’s gardens. Its appearance isn't doing the town any favours.”
His simple post led to nearly 200 people adding their opinions on the pond which has suffered all manner of vandalism including in January 2018 when the fountain was left smashed in pieces and cost the council £3,000 to repair.
That happened just six months after it was put back in action by Fenland District Council who carried out a full renovation following a vandalism attack in May 2017.
In February 2019 more work was completed with Fenland Council hoping a new-look design would prove more resilient to vandalism.
But even that has not proved enough to protect the beloved centrepiece of the gardens, which have won praise from judges in the annual In Bloom competition in the past.
Among comments posted to Alan’s Facebook comment was one that said: “I just think it’s absolutely heartbreaking to all of us who loved the pond in our childhood seeing the fish and feeding the fish.”
Another added: “this fountain is part of my childhood and many others I imagine. Such a shame that people can’t treat it with some respect.”
There were multiple comments about people drinking in the gardens, with many suggesting the pond has become “the local toilet for the drunks.”
One man said: “Too right Alan. The 'water feature' has been in decline for a while now. It's easy to blame the type of individual that frequents the gardens but, given the fact that the area is covered by CCTV, it just shouldn't happen.
“Regarding its fate perhaps the town council could introduce a competition to suggest a viable alternative with a cash prize for the winner.”
A woman added: “Don't waste anymore money fixing it as it will only get vandalised, put a huge bin there, they will feel at home then.”
Many of those commenting suggested the pond be filled in with earth and turned into a planter similar to a pond and fountain in King’s Lynn and local councillor Steve Tierney posted to say this solution was already been considered.
However, there were those who believed such a move would mean the “vandals win”.
Some of the comments included those from people willing to spend time cleaning the pond and fountain up.
