A city centre landmark has disappeared from view overnight as part of restoration plans.

Plans to restore the 19th-century Victoria Fountain in Old Steine Gardens, Brighton, are underway following concerns about its state of disrepair.

The fountain, built in 1846, was switched off for safety reasons last January after “significant and complex structural problems” were discovered, requiring expensive specialist work to be repaired.

Temporary work had been carried out on the fountain after it was discovered to be listing, with rusting bolts found, but it will now undergo refurbishment, restoration and repair.

The fountain has been dismantled, with several large sections of the 32ft landmark hidden from view on the ground behind a large metal fence.

The Argus: The Victoria Fountain has been dismantled, with sections set to be taken to Leicester for repairs and restorationThe Victoria Fountain has been dismantled, with sections set to be taken to Leicester for repairs and restoration (Image: The Argus)

Rocks around the structure have also moved out of the way to allow contractors to carry out the repairs.

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

It follows two unsuccessful attempts at tendering the work needed to repair the fountain, which was installed to mark Queen Victoria’s 27th birthday.

The Grade II listed fountain, which features three levels of cascading water, was previously restored between 1990 and 1995 in readiness for a visit by the then Prince Charles, with a plaque at the site commemorating the previous royal visit.

The council aims to have the restoration of the fountain completed in March, in time for the King’s Coronation in May.

Martin Osbourne, chairman of the tourism, equalities, communities and culture committee, said: “The Victoria Fountain is a valued part of our local heritage and we’re looking forward to seeing it restored to its former glory.

“It has an important central location in Old Steine Gardens and contributes significantly to the look and feel of the city.

“It has taken us longer than we had hoped to get to this point but the construction industry locally and nationally is experiencing severe pressures due to spiralling costs and a shortage of people with specialist skills.

“Despite this, we are doing our best to get the Victoria Fountain repaired as soon as we can.”