Sunderland City Council make public appeal following vandalism

CCTV footage is being studied to help identify vandals who damaged a popular water feature in Sunderland city centre.

Keel Square fountains may be out of action for the next ten to 12 days because of overnight damage on Wednesday 15 September.

The water feature was first installed in 2015 as part of the City Council's ongoing regeneration of the city centre. It includes 55 water jets in the square that can each reach up to three metres (9ft) when they spray and another seven water jets on its table-top feature.

Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council and Cabinet Member for the Environment, Councillor Claire Rowntree said:

"Unfortunately, we are now having to completely clear out the filters and pumps that help run the fountains.

"A large amount of soil was poured into the system and it now needs a deep clean and a series of tests before we can have the fountains running full again.

"It's a shame because I know the fountains are popular, and I know they are also very popular with young children, especially when it's warm and when the sun is out.

"It's going to be a few days to complete the work on the pumps and filters as staff have to clear out the whole system and run a series of tests. This is to ensure the water is clean and it can flow through the system again."

The cost of the repairs and tests is estimated at around £1,500.

Cllr Rowntree added:

"For the people who knowingly did this damage, and they know who they are, we are studying CCTV footage of Keel Square and looking to see if it's possible to clearly identify them and bring charges for criminal damage.

"And, it should also be on their consciences - although I accept that they may not have consciences - that their action will have deprived a lot of people of enjoying Keel Square and its fountains, and many of the people getting enjoyment from the water features are young children."

Anyone with more information about the damage can give information confidentially at: www.sunderland.gov.uk/report-it or by calling 0191 520 5550.