Iconic Kelvingrove Park fountain springs back into life after revamp

Oct 14 2009 By Lauren Crooks

Stewart Memorial Fountain

THE famous Stewart Memorial Fountain in Glasgow's Kelvingrove Park has been brought back to life after a stunning s500,000 revamp.

The icon, erected in 1872 in honour of Robert Stewart who brought clean water to Glasgow, has been restored to its youthful self and was turned on at an official ceremony on Wednesday afternoon.

Workers have cleaned and repaired stone and bronze work and undertaken work to renew its sculptures and drains.

And a new underground water recycling system will mean the fountain will now operate in a sustainable way for the first time.

On the 150th anniversary of the day fresh water flowed into Glasgow from Loch Katrine for the first time, Lord Provost Bob Winter praised the lasting legacy.

Mr Winter, pictured, said: "I believe that single deed made the biggest impact on the citizens of this city in terms of health, wealth and improvement of social conditions, than any other.

"It also revolutionised industry. The fountain, inspired by Sir Walter Scotts The Lady of the Lake, has captured the imagination of many.

"Now that it is restored to its former glory, I am certain it will become a wonderful attraction in much the same way as the Doulton Fountain in Glasgow Green."

Robert Stewart of Murdostoun was Lord Provost from 1851 to 1854 and guided legislation through Parliament that led to the Loch Katrine water system which still supplies fresh water today.

The project to restore the A-listed structure was carried out in partnership with Glasgow City Heritage Trust, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Scottish Water, Better Glasgow Fund and The Pilgrim Trust.