Campaign launched to repair and turn on Sunderland’s Keel Square fountains once again

Opposition Lib Dems on Wearside slam Council for failing to fix fountains which haven’t been switched on at all in 2025 or 2026.

Sunderland’s Liberal Democrats have launched a campaign to turn back on the much-loved fountains in Keel Square.

The fountains were a key part of the area’s redevelopment, but haven’t been switched on at all in 2025 or this year. The Council has confirmed that the fountains “aren’t currently operational”.

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.

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. I’m calling on Reform UK bosses running Sunderland Council to let us know when they will get these fountains switched on again.”