There are calls for King Charles III to be invited for the switch on of a prominent fountain in the city.

The former Prince of Wales reopened Victoria Fountain in 1995 which is when it was last restored.

Conservative councillor for Patcham Carol Theobald said it would be “fitting” considering the King’s history with the 176-year-old fountain, which is due to reopen next year.

Work started on Victoria Fountain last week with the hope of having it reopened in time for the King’s coronation in May.

The Argus: Councillor Theobald in front of the fountainCouncillor Theobald in front of the fountain (Image: The Argus/Andrew Gardner)

The fountain was closed in January due to having “significant and complex structural problems” after it was discovered to be listing to one side.

In February, a notice of motion was put out by the Conservatives which led to £250,000 being set aside in the city budget for repairs.

It is understood part of the fountain will be transported to Leicester for restoration work.

Cllr Theobald: “The fountain was last restored between 1990 and 1995, when it was reopened by Prince Charles on his visit to the City. This is recorded in a plaque at the base of the Victoria Fountain.

The Argus: The fountain has a plaque which details King Charles III's last visit in May 1995The fountain has a plaque which details King Charles III's last visit in May 1995 (Image: The Argus/Andrew Gardner)

“It would be fitting if the King was here once again to officially mark the latest restoration and switch the fountain back on, particularly in his Coronation year.

“The King has always shown an interest in the heritage and historic features of Brighton and Hove.

“Councillors also recall meeting Prince Charles on his visits as far back as the 1970s, where he was well received by all and took time to speak to everyone at length.

“I do hope the city council will take this opportunity to extend an invitation to the King to visit Brighton in his coronation year and to continue this royal connection with our city.

“A Victoria Fountain reopening would be a wonderful event and also serve as an impetus to the city council to get Old Steine Gardens in better order, planted out with flowers again with the fountain as its centrepiece, to once again be a source of civic pride in Brighton.”

A plaque at the site commemorates the previous royal visit on May 25, 1995.

Brighton and Hove City Council and Buckingham Palace have been approached for comment.