The improvement project, which was announced last year, will see the James Square landmark’s masonry repaired and repointed, as well as electrical works to provide new lighting. The whole structure will also be cleaned.

Constructed by William Mossman and installed in 1894, it has long been an aspiration of the Crieff community to see the Category B listed fountain restored to its former glory.

The £120,000 project is a working group partnership between Crieff community organisations and Perth and Kinross Council. The Crieff Community Trust, Crieff at Christmas, Crieff Museum, Crieff in Leaf and the Council’s Community Greenspace and Property Services have all worked together to take the scheme forward.

After several setbacks – including the pandemic and its associated restrictions – the working group this week announced that efforts to restore the fountain will soon begin.

Supported by the council, Crieff Community Trust submitted successful funding applications to Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust, the Scotland Loves Local fund, Community Environmental Challenge Fund, SGN, and Historic Environment Scotland, which raised £60,000 towards the total cost of the work.

Ailsa Campbell, chair of the Community Trust, said: “In Crieff we recognise the importance of collaborative working, and this successful partnership approach will ensure that this iconic monument in the centre of the town will be restored to its former glory and continue to be the focal point and welcoming space that locals and visitors know and love.”

Councillor Eric Drysdale, the council’s environment and infrastructure convener, added: “It’s fantastic news that Murray Fountain will stand proud for many decades to come as a result of this partnership project. I know it holds a special place in the affections of local people.

“I would like to pay tribute to the dedication of the Crieff community who have worked so hard to make this a reality, and I look forward to work getting started.”

Conservation architect Scott Wallace of EKJN Architects, who has led the design team in obtaining council permissions and preparing technical specifications for the project, said: “We’re delighted to assist with bringing a new lease of life to the fantastic Murray Fountain.

“Over the monument’s 130-year history it has stood proudly in the centre of Crieff. This project presents a wonderful opportunity to repair damage and weather-staining, whilst also reinstating lighting and improving the stone pointing to benefit the structure for years to come.”