The campaign to save the Wellington Monument has taken another large step forward with a grant of £100,000 from Viridor Credits Environmental Company.
The funding boost from Viridor means that the National Trust now have just over £1 million left to raise. The National Trust began caring for the Monument in 1934 and has undertaken regular renovations since this time but is now aiming to raise the funds needed for a full conservation repair estimated to cost £3.8m.
Helen Sharp, National Trust Project Manager for Wellington Monument said: ‘We are extremely pleased and grateful to receive this generous grant. This substantial sum of money will go a long way to help repair the monument. The more money we can raise, the more vital conservation work we can undertake.
‘The monument is very important to the local community, it has stood on the Blackdown Hills for over 200 years and the National Trust would like to ensure it stands for another 200 years. To many, it acts as a gateway to the South West, and a place to gather, celebrate and meet with friends. We look forward to scaffolding going up in the autumn ’
Gareth Williams, Operations Manager for Viridor Credits said ‘That Viridor Credits has been able to contribute to the restoration of this iconic monument is a testament to the National Trust’s passion for the work to be carried out, reflected in their application. We can’t wait to follow the progress of the work…’
Another gaint leap forward for the sum needed for the restoration of our Monument. Congratulations and thank you Viridor Credits for this wonderful contribution.