The historic fountain in Lurgan Park has been brought back into operation use following almost three years out of service.
The cast-iron, Coalbrookdale fountain was erected back in 1888 to celebrate 50 years of the reign of Queen Victoria, who was crowned in 1838.
It was originally located in Lurgan town centre, but was moved to Lurgan Public Park in the mid 1920’s to make way for the town’s War Memorial.
While other Coalbrookdale fountains do exist, it is believed that Lurgan’s fountain is the only one to survive with its original lamp posts.
Upper Bann MLA Jonathan Buckley described the restoration of the fountain as “fantastic”.
He said: “Brilliant to see this piece of local history preserved – well done to those who persisted with this project and to the Council staff who made this a reality.”
This sentiment was echoed by his party colleague, Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart who said the fountain has not been working since before the Covid pandemic.
She commented: “It was raised with me almost three years ago and I am delighted that Council have delivered on their promise to me to get it functioning again.
“Owing to how ornate the fountain is, the mechanics of it and space underneath it for repairing it was particularly challenging so well done. It was worth the wait.
“This is an amazing fountain and part of an amazing park. It is great to see this part of history restored and now fully functioning.”
