A key new Millennium attraction has been approved by planners.

They gave the go-ahead for the Millennium Committee's fountain. And it is understood work will start by February 2000.

Secretary of Corporation of Hamilton, Roger Sherratt, said the Millennium Interactive Fountain would be built in Par-La-Ville Park.

"We were very involved in the process,'' he explained.

He added: "Initially, when the Millennium Committee approached us, we were concerned about the sensitive nature of the park. However, we are pleased at the sensitive treatment with which the Millennium Committee has treated the landscape. There will be no cutting down of large trees.'' Mr. Sherratt said the changes would have to have been in keeping with the overall layout of the park.

"It is important that the fountain enhance the park and the surrounding area.

It will be an attractive feature to the City Centre.'' Mr. Sherratt said there had also been concern about the public toilets blocking the entrance to the park.

"We will be building new, very accessible public toilets in Number One Shed.'' In addition, the public toilets to be built at the entrance to the park would be more aesthetically pleasing, he added. They would be built in a different configuration at the park entrance.

Millennium Committee Chairman Jay Black said: "We are delighted to have met the approval of the Planning Department and to have satisfied the objections that were put forward to the board. We will release further information on the project very shortly.''