We were delighted to be joined by our Royal Patron, HRH The Duke of Gloucester, for the unveiling of the restored Temperance Fountain this week. HOLT and Kensington & Chelsea Council worked together to get this Victorian fountain back into use on Kensington High Street, with fresh drinking water for the public.
The stone fountain was installed in 1900 and paid for by the local Temperance Society, which was dedicated to promoting drinking water over alcohol. Its restoration this summer included replacing missing stonework including the carved cross on top, and reinscribing lettering, as well as brand new piping & taps.
Guests including RBKC Mayor Cllr Will Lane, Cllr Lloyd North, Cllr Catherine Faulks, Giles Semper, CEO of Opportunity Kensington and HOLT Trustee Richard Johnston all sampled the water. Mayor Will Lane and The Duke made speeches.
The fountain hopes to reduce single-use plastic by encouraging residents and visitors to make use of fresh and free water all year round.
Dr Nicola Stacey said “We have been thrilled to work with Kensington & Chelsea Council to restore this beautiful historic fountain – now back in use as a public amenity after so many years. This is one of 12 historic fountains we’ve restored and it’s so great to see passers by making use of it.”
Cllr Johnny Thalassites, Lead Member Net Zero Council said: “It’s great to see a historic fountain being restored and returned on our high streets that not only provides free drinking water but also helps the environment by reducing the use of plastic. It is a step towards making our amazing spaces greener and more sustainable for all our residents and communities to enjoy.”
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