MOVES to save an iconic metal fountain which stood outside Ford’s former headquarters in Basildon for 35 years have given campaigners new hope.

Earlier this week, Vin Harrop, director of the Foundation of Essex Arts, spoke in the Echo of his concerns about the pineapple fountain, outside Trafford House, in Cherrydown East.

The fountain, created by William Mitchell from special weatherproof Corten metal, could be destroyed when site is redeveloped for homes, if a new site cannot be found for it. The artist is best known for his work on the Egyptian Room and staircase at Harrods Knights-bridge store, in London.

Mr Harrop insists his foundation cannot not afford to move the sculpture.

However, since the Echo’s story, John Schofield, Essex county councillor for Westley Heights, has decided to seek the county council’s help to save the eye-catching piece.

Mr Schofield said he hoped money set aside for the South Essex Area Forum to spend on community projects could be used.

He has now written to the forum’s chairman about it Mr Schofield said: “I’d like to see this remarkable piece of artwork kept in Basildon.

“As soon as I read about it in the Echo, it struck me this might be the sort of thing the South Essex Area Forum could put money towards.”

Mr Harrop was delighted. He said Alastair Watson, chief executive of developer Collonade, which now owns Trafford House had also offered to help fund moving the fountain.

The pair were due to meet next month to discuss the matter.