Iconic quayside water fountains are restored to their former glory

Visitors to Bideford can’t help but notice the iconic water fountains on the Quay are now firing again in all their glory.

After 17 years of silence, the tidal water fountains on Bideford Quay have been brought back to life by Torridge District Council thanks to Government investment through the Rural England Prosperity Fund.

Last June the council gave the green light to restore the fountains, which shoot impressive jets of water in an arc over the river and the £60,000 refurbishment project got underway towards the end of last year.

READ MORE: Bideford water fountain to spout again after years of silence

Bideford Harbour Board had been pushing for the fountains to be brought back to life, as they had proved popular with the public.

Above: The Bideford Quay tidal water fountains are quite impressive at night too, thanks to newly upgraded lighting. Credit: TDC

The Bideford Quay Fountains were first installed to mark the late Queen’s Golden Jubilee in 2002.

When they dried up some seven years later, it was deemed too expensive to fix them at the time because specialist parts would have to be commissioned.

But with advances in technology, now local firms Northwave Engineering Ltd and Aquatech Water Services Ltd have delivered a modern, energy‑efficient upgrade, including new high‑efficiency pumps.

There is also a smarter control system that responds to tide levels and wind conditions to prevent spray reaching the Quay.

The valve assemblies have been refurbished to extend the life of the system and the decorative lighting has been upgraded for a better night‑time display.

READ MORE: Bideford water fountains will be squirting again by next spring

To mark the milestone, councillors from Torridge District Council, head of the Bideford Regeneration Board, Clare Coghill, along with year 12 students from Bideford College (who sit on the Bideford Regeneration Board), representatives from Northwave and Aquatech and children from Muddy Boots Pre-school, gathered at Bideford Quay earlier today (Wednesday, March 11) to enjoy the firing of the fountains.

Above: Youngsters from Muddy Boots Pre-school enjoyed their day out to see the fountains working. Credit: TDC

Councillor Bob Hicks, chair of Bideford Harbour Board, said: “I am both proud and delighted that this iconic feature is working again.

“No doubt, these fountains will provide a fantastic backdrop to festivals and events in the town, bringing an uplifting and energetic atmosphere to the Quay, enhancing this much‑loved public space for residents and visitors alike.”