A FOUNTAIN which has been the subject of much debate is being removed and replaced with Christmas decorations.

The fountain in Malvern Link is known to have not worked for some time, with debate between Malvern Town Council and Malvern Hills District Council about what to do with it, but an agreement has now been reached to deal with it.

The fountain will be removed and transferred to the town council's ownership, who will be responsible for its future maintenance.

Initial work will see the fountain removed and replaces with a stand for a Christmas tree and electrical connections for lights.

All this will happen once the area has been levelled and finished.

The Town Council will also fund a Christmas tree and lights for the area and the community and traders in Malvern Link will be able to decide what to do with the area for the rest of the year.

Mayor of Malvern, Cllr Neil Morton, said: "I would like to thank the traders and residents of Malvern link for their patience whilst we reached agreement with Malvern Hills District Council regarding the removal of the Fountain.

"I would also like to say thank you to (Cllr) Sarah Rouse for her help in these negotiations and look forward to seeing the Christmas tree there this festive season."

With works already underway, contractors will firstly remove the fountain including the base blocks.

These blocks will then be re-used next year for a new fountain project in Rosebank Gardens, to be situated on the grassed area by the 99 steps.