Work to restore a historic city centre landmark is well underway after falling into disrepair.
The Victoria Fountain has been disassembled and transported to workshops in Leicester for a complete restoration after concerns were raised about “significant and complex structural problems”.
The fountain was switched off for safety reasons last January after it was determined specialist work was needed to repair the issues.
The large cast-iron dolphins that feature on the 32ft fountain, along with the fountain’s pool, have already been blasted ready for inspection, with welding work to begin in the near future.
Councillor Martin Osborne, who co-chairs the tourism, equalities, communities and culture committee, said: “The Victoria Fountain is a valued part of our local heritage so it’s fantastic news that restoration work is now underway.
“Repairing and restoring historic cast iron structures is a specialist task, so we are pleased that this important city landmark is in the capable hands of expert restorers.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the Victoria Fountain restored to its former glory and taking pride of place, once again, in Old Steine Gardens.”
While the fountain is being renovated, a new reinforced concrete base will be installed on the site, providing a solid, secure and level base for the restored fountain once it is rebuilt.
The work is being overseen by Brighton company Edgar and Wood Mechanical Services Ltd, with specialist contractors working on the fountain’s metalwork, water features and lighting.
Restoration work is currently on schedule and expected to be complete by late spring.
However, the council have warned the timeframe will be fully determined after the condition of the metalwork, waterproofing and mechanical design is completely assessed.
The Grade II listed fountain, built in 1846, marked the 27th birthday of Queen Victoria, with its pool originally filled with water lilies and goldfish.
It was previously restored between 1990 and 1995 before a visit by Prince Charles. It is hoped by some that Charles, who is now King, will return to the city to mark the fountain’s latest restoration.
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