There will be no paddling in the water feature in Nottingham's Old Market Square this summer. Usually as temperatures start to rise kids can be seen splashing about and even the occasional adult has been known to take a dip to cool down.
But this summer the fountains will remain off while investigations are carried out to solve problems, including water leaking into the electrical control room below the Square. The feature was installed 15 years ago when Slab Square was given a £7m overhaul.
Nottingham City Council leader, Coun David Mellen, said: “The water feature in Old Market Square has been switched off because essential repair works are needed to ensure it can run safely. The works require further detailed investigation before we can decide the best way of addressing the issues identified, which include water leaking into the electrical control room below the Square.
Read more: Victoria Embankment paddling pool will not reopen as public asked for views on replacement
"This will, unfortunately, mean that the water feature will not be running this summer. We appreciate this will be a disappointment, but we must always ensure the safety of visitors to the Old Market Square. We have started exploring the options for getting it up and running again as soon as possible.
“In the meantime, we are looking at how the area can be actively used as part of our events planning this year and in particular as part of the Nottingham Beach, which as always will be in the Square for the duration of the school summer holidays.”
The news comes after it was revealed that Victoria Embankment paddling pool has closed for good since it would cost £600,000 to repair. The public have been asked what they would like to replace the much-loved attraction.
