Projects - Trust Annual Report 1994
The past year has been one of behind the scenes activity for the Projects group. The purpose of the group is to help maintain the character of our city by highlighting the need to conserve existing details, replace lost ones, or to bring something new to enhance a specific location.
Over the last twelve months, we have been involved in various examples of the above projects.
For instance, the fabric shop in Chesil Street wished to place a hanging sign on their building, but initially planned a plywood sign. We encouraged them to have a sign made using blacksmithing methods, which would be more in keeping with their location. This is currently in production and we look forward to seeing the result.
In another part of the city, a private householder has a mid-Victorian house, with an original set of boundary railings in need of repair. We have evaluated the condition of the railings and have consulted various artist metalworkers, who are assessing the cost of repairs. When these are received, a grant application can be made to the local authorities and a package of grants put together to help preserve these railings for the future.
Potentially the largest project under consideration concerns the fountain in St George's Street. We had been planning to help brighten up this area by organising a design competition to design a new fountain/water sculpture to replace the existing rather sad fountain. This whole area is now subject to the landscaping planned in association with the new Help Centre in the Casson Building and we have been privileged to be consulted by the architects at an early stage. This project is currently moving forward in conjunction with the Trust's Landscape group.
I would like to thank the eight members of the projects team, who have patiently given their time over the last year. I would also like to encourage all Trust members to put forward suggestions for projects large or small.