Waterford Council have confirmed that the fountain in the People’s Park is set to be fully refurbished and up and running in the coming weeks.
The issue has proved a bug bear for councillors and locals alike, with many describing it as an ‘eyesore’ in recent years - since it has fallen into a state of disrepair.
A tender was issued by Waterford Council in early 2023, paving the way for works to commence, and an update was sought on the matter at the January meeting of the Metropolitan District Council by Cllr. Joe Kelly (Independent).
At the time, the local authority confirmed that the tender contract had been split, but signs were "positive to have all necessary works completed by the start of the summer."
However, no work commenced during the summer months - and the works have only commenced in recent days.
A statement to WLR News from Waterford Council reads:
"The initial phase of construction commenced this week, consisting of civil works to prepare the ground and will continue for approximately one week. The contractor is due to commence works following this initial phase, and works are expected to be completed by the end of 2023."
Hey @wlrfm, looks like construction has begun on the new fountain at People’s Park. Or at least destruction. I liked the old one but it was a shame they could never get it working. pic.twitter.com/HOt2aZv1dN
— Russ Parsons (@Russ_Parsons1) October 18, 2023
Waterford Council had hoped to fix the fountain for good some time ago, but say the Covid-19 pandemic and associated restrictions led to initial delays.
Last year, a specialist consultant was appointed to undertake an assessment of the fountain, before providing an options report which has allowed the local authority to proceed with the necessary refurbishment works.
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