Nuneaton landmark falls victim to 'severe act' of vandalism

It is treasured nationally



Damage has been caused to a treasured Nuneaton landmark following a 'severe act' of vandalism

Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council bosses have said the dandelion fountain has been damaged by vandals who they say dumped an 'industrial chemical foaming agent' into the water.

This, the council claims, has caused damage to the main display equipment that produces the dandelion effect.

Councillor Julie Jackson, leader at the Town Hall, said they will now be forced to spend taxpayers' money to fix the damage.

“It is very unfortunate that the Dandelion Fountain, one of Nuneaton’s best known landmarks, has been vandalised in this way," Cllr Jackson said.

“This means the council will have to meet the unexpected spend requirements in order to carry out the repairs, which is a situation that the council never likes to be in.

“These careless acts of vandalism have an impact on the wider community and we urge individuals to consider the consequences before partaking in such actions.”

There will be ongoing inspections to assess what further repairs will be required.

The council's plant maintenance team have already carried out repairs on the inner and outer display rings.

But the internal seals of the pump and the electrical windings of the motor will need a major inspection and overhaul to fully assess the damage.

Due to the difficult logistical removal of the heavy plant equipment from the underground plant chamber, the assessment will determine whether the necessary repairs can be made locally or will need to take place off-site.

The dandelion fountain is not only treasured locally but also nationally as the UK Roundabout Appreciation Society (UKRAS) crowned the roundabout the best in the UK.

This acclaim came in 2016 and has made it a must-see for all visitors to the town.

But, following the vandalism, it is not known when it will be back to its full working glory.

Seals I can understand: but motor windings seems a touch excessive. I can't help wonder if this vandalism is being used to hide something else?