Following seven months of work, the Princess Gardens Grade II listed Fountain is now ready to be switched back on.

The fountain, and the surrounding area, has undergone a huge transformation. The work carried out included correcting a tilt, constructing a new reinforced concrete base, a full refurbishment of the fountain and a new planting scheme which shows the original ‘Fleur de Lis’ bedding design.

The new fountain now has colour changing illuminations which are placed around its base to highlight its intricate features. A weather station has also been installed to monitor the wind direction and control the fountain water flow. This is to help protect the surrounding flowers and grass area from waterlogging.

Gordon Oliver, Torbay’s Elected Mayor, said: “The fountain, which was donated by Mr H Young from the nearby Torbay Hotel in the early 1890’s, is looking wonderful after it’s make over. It is great to see this well-liked and prominent feature, which is the only one of its kind, taking pride of place again in Princess Gardens. Throughout all of the planning and refurbishment of the fountain we have taken on board all the feedback from residents, such as including better lighting, and I am sure you will agree with me that what we have now is an excellent improvement.”

The Fountain will be officially switched on by Mayor Gordon Oliver on Tuesday 3 July. Invited guests include all of the contractors involved in this project - MW Benney Building Contractors, Hi-Line South West, TDA and TOR2.

The repair and improvement of this significant feature has been funded from the income from the Wheel and Carousel together with planning obligation contributions.