Published: Tuesday 24 September 2024
A 100-year-old Victorian fountain originally installed to encourage people to drink water rather than beer has been brought back into use for visitors to Kensington High Street.
The refurbished Temperance Fountain was unveiled on Monday 23 September by HRH The Duke of Gloucester, Heritage of London Trust’s Royal Patron after having its decorative features, including a cross and inscription, lovingly restored during a project led by Kensington and Chelsea Council and Heritage of London Trust.
The original fountain was damaged by lightning in 1897 and a replacement, installed in 1900, was paid for by the St Mary Abbots “Temperance Society”. Its refurbishment will help to reduce single-use plastic by encouraging residents and visitors to make use of fresh and free drinking water connected by Thames Water.
Cllr Johnny Thalassites, Lead Member for Net Zero Council said:
“It’s great to see a historic fountain being restored and returned on our high streets that not only provides free drinking water but also helps the environment by reducing the use of plastic. It is a step towards making our amazing spaces greener and more sustainable for all our residents and communities to enjoy.”
Dr Nicola Stacey, Director, Heritage of London Trust said:
“We have been thrilled to work with Kensington & Chelsea Council to restore this beautiful historic fountain – now back in use as a public amenity after so many years. This is one of 12 historic fountains we’ve restored and it’s so great to see so many passers by making use of it.”
Earlier this year, local school children from Kensington Primary Academy visited the fountain as part of Heritage of London Trust’s Proud Places programme. The Trust’s grant was supported by Knight Frank.
Find out more by visiting Heritage of London Trust’s website.