A GROUP of dedicated volunteers can finally complete a historic monument in Christchurch after their plans were approved.

The Friends of Tutton’s Well said they were “delighted” they could restart their work on preserving the historic site in Stanpit after councillors at Christchurch gave them the go-ahead.

The group have worked for years to try and restore the dipping place, Victorian water pump and quay wall as well as hoping to erect an information board for visitors to learn about its history.

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.

But despite much of the work being undertaken, last year the group were 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, after a building surveyor investigated the wall and found no evidence of subsidence, cracking or tipping in the wall, officers recommended the scheme for approval, and it was voted through by planning committee members.

Cllr Peter Hall said: “These people should be commended for putting in their own money and time. It is brilliant.

“They have improved the site and it has not cost the council a penny. For them to do all this work is great.”

Councillors requested that a condition to weather the stone at the dipping place be added to the permission after concerns about its appearance.

After the meeting, Reg Stones from the Friends of Tutton’s Well, said: “At last we can get on with it. We’re delighted. It could have been a lot simpler but there we go.

“We’re providing something for the people of Christchurch – a legacy for the future. This is our gift to the borough.”