Fountains that couldn't run in heatwaves reopen

Town centre fountains that had to be turned off in the recent hot weather have been reopened thanks to extra council staffing.

The water feature at The Triangle amphitheatre in Yeovil, Somerset, is now up and running daily between 10:00 and 16:00 BST – in time for another burst of heat over the next few days.

The fountains require extra chemical treatment and monitoring during temperatures above 25C, causing them to be turned off by Somerset Council during recent hot weather due to staffing issues.

Somerset Council said it had listened to feedback and had increased monitoring.

A council spokesperson previously said the water feature required chemical treatment like a swimming pool.

In hot weather, more people use the fountains, affecting bromine and pH levels, meaning the chemical balance needs closer attention, the spokesperson said.

After announcing the reopening, another council spokesman said: "Regular checks will take place while the feature is in operation to keep everything clean, safe and enjoyable for everyone."

However, the fountains may need to be turned off in future if there are any safety, water quality issues or misuse, the spokesperson said.

Paid for by the government's Future High Streets Fund, the fountains opened to the public in January 2025.

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