A historic Victorian fountain which forms the focal point of Worcester’s Cripplegate Park has sprung back into action after the completion of a major refurbishment.
The Grade II listed cast-iron fountain has been fully refurbished and fixed for the summer, and is now once again delighting visitors.
The fountain was presented to the city in 1858 by industrialist and former MP Richard Padmore, and was made at the Blockhouse foundry by his company, Hardy and Padmore. It has been a landmark in the park since 1924.
Last year Worcester City Council agreed a refurbishment programme for the fountain costing £25,000.
The work included the cleaning, refurbishment and decoration of the cast iron, and repairs were also made to the lower lion spouts, which had previously not all been working efficiently. There was also minor re-pointing to the stonework of the fountain.
The improvements were carried while the fountain was closed down over the colder months of the year, after September 2023.
Speaking about the refurbishment, Worcester City Councillor for the St John’s ward Richard Udal said: “The fountain was originally placed in the old Worcester Market Hall, but it has been in Cripplegate Park for 100 years. Sadly it was beginning to show its age, so the refurbishment was well earned and necessary.
“I hope it will continue to bring pleasure and enjoyment for many more years to come and will be at the centre of the park for all to enjoy.”
Fellow St John’s ward councillor Jenny Barnes added: “Our park is loved by the community and refurbishing the fountain shows pride in our green space.
“The Friends of Cripplegate Park run a range of events in the park, and charity events are held there too, such as the recent Band Together fundraising music festival.”
Contractors Barr & Grosvenor Ltd decorated the main fountain and Steve Allard & Son repaired the stone base. The project was managed by consultants PR Associates Ltd.
