WATER flowed from Edinburgh's most famous fountain yesterday for the first time in almost five years.
The restoration of the Ross Fountain, in West Princes Street Gardens, is a result of the partnership formed between Edinburgh City Council and East of Scotland Water in a bid to restore the Victorian structure, whose plumbing and drainage system failed in 1996.
The 1860s Durenne structure, which has undergone extensive improvements, can now recycle water effectively, essential for water conservation.
The Ross Fountain is a unique French sculpture, made at the Durenne ironworks near Paris.
Daniel Ross, a gun-maker, bought it for Edinburgh when it was displayed in the Great Exhibition of London in 1862. It was donated to the capital with the agreement that the town council would maintain its construction.
Councillor Steve Cardownie, an executive member for leisure and culture, who switched on the fountain said: ''The Ross Fountain is one of Edinburgh's best known landmarks and I am delighted that it has been given a new lease of life.
''The city's World Heritage
status reflects our commitment to preserving historic monuments, such as this fountain, and I am certain that local residents and visitors from all over the world will continue to enjoy its beauty for many years to come.''
The fountain has been a much- admired centrepiece for well over a century. It is a B-listed structure, supported by Historic Scotland.
Councillor Bob Cairns, East of Scotland Water chairman, who joined Mr Cardownie at the re-opening, said: ''The project has been a real collaboration of skills. It has presented many technical challenges. However, I am sure that everyone who passes this fountain will agree that it has been a worthwhile cause.''
The fountain was delivered to Leith in September 1869 after being shipped from France in 122 pieces, which were re-assembled by the town council.
Unfortunately, Daniel Ross died the year before the sculpture was erected in the gardens in 1872. A plaque to commemorate the recent restoration has been laid in an adjacent footpath to the fountain.
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