WESTBURY Town Council has agreed to clean the White Horse and get it back to its former gleaming glory, ready for the summer months.
The initial plan is to carry out a simple clean in preparation for the summer, in particular for the summer events planned across the town. Then, a longer-term development plan will be created for a more effective restoration of the surface and surrounding area, to ensure a longer-lasting whiteness.
During a recent meeting of Westbury Town Council, cllr Ian Cunningham said, “Part of the problem we have is that the cleaning doesn’t last very long; there is a need for a better, long -term policy in regards to maintenance of the horse.
“A simple clean, which is what we are proposing to do, costs around £4,000. We are going to go ahead with a spray clean, which is much less complicated and less expensive than other options.
“We have contacted English Heritage, who own the horse, and hope to obtain the equipment to clean it over the spring. Various groups have been suggested, who might volunteer to help and also a professional to assist the process. There is a plan ahead, but with a budget issue, however we need to tie English Heritage into it as well, we can’t be the only responsible people, and we need to create a long-term plan.
“It does look a mess and it’s 2018 – a significant year for some celebrations – so it needs to be cleaned up.”
Some Westbury people have taken to social media to express their sadness of the condition of the famous Westbury landmark.
A post on Spotted Westbury said, “A little saddened by the state of Westbury white horse. I love seeing it standing proud and bright on the side of the hill. But it’s definitely not looking so bright at the moment, in fact I almost missed it completely.”
Whilst another said, “Lived In Westbury all my life and I have to say I have never seen the White Horse in such a poor state as it is the moment! Ownership needs to be taken and get it back to the ‘White’ Horse it’s meant to be.”
If you are interested in volunteering to help give the horse back its sparkle, contact the council on info@westburytowncouncil.gov.uk
