A GROUP of volunteers determined to continue the resurrection of an important part of Christchurch’s heritage have resubmitted plans for their monument.

The Friends of Tutton’s Well have worked for years to preserve the ancient historical site in Stanpit.

The importance of the site, given to the town by 18th century benefactor Sir George Rose, stems from the fresh spring water that arises in the well originating from rainwater that has been filtered down through the New Forest gravel beds, which were formed by the last ice age.

The water is believed by many to have unique healing qualities that have been used over the centuries for health problems and especially for the healing of the eyes for people throughout the borough and beyond.

Years of negotiations between Christchurch council and the group led to planning permission in 2009 to restore the dipping place, Victorian water pump and quay wall as well as erecting an information board for visitors to learn about its history.

But despite much of the work being undertaken, last year the group was told to go back to the drawing board over council concerns about the structural stability of a boundary wall and flooding issues with the dipping place.

However, building surveyor Ernest Hague said he was unable to find any evidence of subsidence, cracking or tipping of the wall.

In a letter he said the wall was “structurally stable and that the recent works have had no adverse effect on the continuing stability of that section of the wall”.

And expert Robin Walls said he could see no situation in which the dipping place could cause flooding “that is harmful to persons or property.”

Reg Stones from the Friends of Tuttons Well said: “We think we’ve responded to their concerns and hopefully solved their issues.

“Ultimately we are volunteers and this is a gift to the borough.

“We’re looking forward to moving onto the next stage should this be approved.”