Lismore Lions fountain filled with concrete

A COUNCIL spokeswoman said it was "all part of the part of the process of refurbishment” and would not compromise the final product.

IN THE WORKS: THE Lions fountain has been undergoing repairs. It is pictured here before Lismore City Council staff filled part of the base with concrete and resealed the area. Picture: Facebook

LISMORE City Council staff have been forced to fill the Lismore Lions fountain with concrete - but don't be concerned, it's all part of the plan.

Regulations over the depth of water allowed near 240 volt lighting that surrounds the fountain dictate that it must be a maximum depth of 300mm - the length of a school ruler.

As a result, staff had to literally fill the base of the fountain with concrete to lower the water level to the regulation depth.

A council spokeswoman said it was "all part of the part of the process of refurbishment" and would not compromise the final product.

Repairs to the fountain have been in the pipeline for several weeks now.

The council commissioned local company Sidney & Hackney to create new stainless pipework and jets to replace the old copper pipework that was corroded and broken in some places.

The fountain also had cracked masonry and surrounds with local contractor Tony Ivey commissioned to re-render the stone surrounds of the fountain.

The fountain bowl and stand was also cracked and has since been resurfaced, repaired and repainted.

The inside of the fountain was wet sealed and the pump was recommissioned.

All internal and external fountain lights were broken and these have also been replaced.

The total cost of the refurbishment is about $45,000, paid for by both Lismore City Council and Lions.

The fountain will be reopened formally before the end of the year.