Why doesn't Eastgate fountain work any more?

shutthatdoor · Post by **shutthatdoor** » Tue 22 Jul, 2014 9:40 pm

Leeds needs new Councillors. The 'Old Guard' whilst some were admirable, have made so many poor budget decisions it is lamentable, although I understand decisions may have been made in good faith at the time. I am 'miffed' to say the least that the wonderful fountains at Eastgate & City Square have been put out to grass. At what cost? Freedom of Information request looming.

Leodian · Post by **Leodian** » Tue 22 Jul, 2014 9:53 pm

With the ongoing hot weather I would be tempted to jump into a fountain just to cool off!

jim · Post by **jim** » Wed 23 Jul, 2014 1:45 am

Leeds' Council Tax rate has been kept so low for so long (by all parties, no favouritism here) that government will not give Leeds funding for - well, anything, you name it. To do so would create outcry from all the other big councils, saying that Government is funding Leeds' low Council Tax. Needless to say no Leeds councillor of any political hue dare say that the rate must go up with a bump - and Government probably won't let it happen anyway. Political stalemate, Catch 22.

shutthatdoor · Post by **shutthatdoor** » Wed 23 Jul, 2014 6:08 pm

Hi jim,I fear you are right in your comments. Recent cuts to the Arts budget confirm this. Not that I'm 'arty' myself. My C-tax went up £7 a month this year. Doesn't sound much if you say it quickly but it equates to £84 a year which is the thick end of a ton. When Armley Park was officially opened by Queen Victoria, a fountain just a few tens of yards beyond the main gates was dedicated to the occasion. Although it has not worked for many many decades, it is a beautiful construction in stone and I still marvel at the craftsmanship of the masons. Alas, there is nothing to marvel at in City Square apart from a few holes in the ground. I laughingly recall Pigeons loved it though, sitting exhausted and cooling in the pooled water.