'We want Keel Square fountains switched back on' say campaigners
They were becoming a new city landmark - but Keel Square fountains have been dry for 18 months.
“Lots of people loved the fountains, especially in the warm weather, but have noticed that they haven’t been switched on for years now,” say campaigners as they appeal for Keel Square’s fountains to flow once more.
The water feature, and its colourful lighting, was becoming a new landmark for the city with the creation of the new civic square in 2015, often lit different colours for events and kids splashing through them on hot days.
However, while new developments have risen into the skyline around the fountains, they’ve not so much as dribbled in 2025 or so far in 2026 with the fountains described as ‘not operational.’
Now, Sunderland’s Liberal Democrats have launched a campaign to turn back on the much-loved fountains.
Lib Dem city councillors are demanding council bosses prioritise fixing the fountains so they can be enjoyed this summer by families and visitors over the six weeks holidays.
However, after being approached by the Echo, a representative from Sunderland City Council sad they would not be fixed this year.
Speaking about her campaign to get the fountains repaired and working again, Lib Dem councillor for Ford, Millfield and Pallion Julia Potts, said: “Lots of people loved the fountains, especially in the warm weather, but have noticed that they haven’t been switched on for years now. That’s why we are launching our campaign and petition to get them back up and running again.
“Council bosses need to come clean about what is going on here. It is typical Sunderland Council to unveil a new development like Keel Square with much fanfare, but then to do nothing when things break or need sorting out. We deserve much better.
“It’s not good enough for the council to let things remain broken for years and hope no one notices instead of prioritising fixing the fountains as quickly as possible.”
Barry Hyde, publican at The Peacock on Keel Square, said the fountains add vibrancy to the ongoing regeneration of the area.
“It would be great to see the fountains on Keel Square in action again,” he said. “When we took over The Peacock much of the fantastic developments on the square and culture hadn’t been started and it’s been amazing to see the area come to life.
“The fountains would add extra vibrancy to what has become the face of the city’s new identity.”
A spokesperson from Sunderland City Council said: “The City Council is planning to repair the fountains in Keel Square as part of the ongoing Riverside Sunderland regeneration. This work will commence in early 2027.”
You can sign the petition to have them fixed sooner here: https://www.wearsidelibdems.org.uk/campaigns/fix-keel-square-fountains