Water to cascade again thanks to Lottery funding

The cascade, at the main entrance end of the lake, has not worked for a number of years.

Its repair and renovation is a major element of a Heritage Lottery funded project marking the centenary of Wilton Park and Bagshaw Museum which opened to the public in 1911.

Plans are to reclad the tiers of the cascade in stone and to add stone coping to the top of the walls. The current concrete kerb edging will also be replaced with stone kerbs.

Completing the work will be an ornamental metal balustrade. The pump operating the cascade will also be made operational.

Kirklees Cabinet member Councillor David Sheard, said: “Over the years the cascade has fallen into disrepair and, unfortunately, repairs that have been carried out have not been sympathetic to the original structure. This work will rectify that and not only reinstate an important historical feature of the park but create another visitor attraction in this already popular Green Flag award-winning park.

“An added bonus is that the cascade will help to aerate the water in the lake making it a better environment for the fish.”

The Heritage Lottery Fund awarded £50,000 to the year-long centenary project coordinated by Kirklees Council and the Friends of Wilton Park. There have been several community events and visitors have helped to plan a permanent history trail.

“The refurbishment of the cascade will complete a successful centenary year,” said a council spokesman.

Work on the cascade is expected to be completed by mid-March.