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06
Oct 2022
Fountain will end model boating in Valley Gardens, says club
A Harrogate model boating club has said plans to erect a fountain in the boating pool at Valley Gardens will stop them being able to pursue their hobby.
Claro Marine model boating club meets twice a week on Wednesdays and Sundays to operate motor boats on the pool behind the cafe.
Harrogate Borough Council plans to put a fountain in the pool to help improve water quality.
David Finnegan, secretary of Claro Marine, told the Stray Ferret it would make sailing the boats impossible:
Until recently council staff regularly drained and cleaned the pond of leaves and litter and then refilled it.
Last month, though, the pool was drained but not refilled due to the drought and the fountain is due to be installed next year.
Mr Finnegan said the council told him the decision had already been made:
Mr Finnegan, 68, says there's a long tradition of boating on the small pond - as a child he paddled in the water amongst the vessels. The boaters often have spectators who enjoy watching them - particularly children.
https://youtu.be/r0ovwN3VWms
A video of the club's boats being sailed on the pool.
The Stray Ferret put the club's concerns to the council. A spokesperson said:
The Boating Lake, Valley Gardens, Harrogate c.1949
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