Advocacy efforts are currently underway to protect the landmark fountain in Victoria’s Centennial Square from being removed.
In 1962, the fountain was donated to Victoria by the three surrounding municipalities, in recognition of the City’s 100th birthday.
According to Chris Gower, Architect FRAIC, many Victoria residents have expressed concerns over the City Council’s proposed removal of the well-regarded landmark fountain.
“There are also very broad community concerns about the lack of public informed input on proposed changes to Victoria’s very historic Centennial Square: apparent disregard for the urban design stature of the Square, and alarm about spiralling costs for a complete rebuild of Centennial Square, in place of the economies of a careful restoration with some contemporary updates,” said Gower.
As a result, Gower, along with his colleague architect Don Lovell, have formed a dedicated group called Friends of Centennial Square to promote protection of the fountain, while also recognizing that restoration and some moderate updates of Centennial Square are warranted.
There is also a public petition underway that has garnered over 1,600 signatures in roughly five weeks.
“Most telling are the many written petition comments which uniformly express widespread community dismay that the historic fountain would be removed and replaced with a generic children’s water play feature,” said Gower.
The petition, which has been started on Change.org, urges the local government to reconsider any plans that might lead to the removal or alteration of the Centennial Fountain.
“The fountain stands in Centennial Square, a public space that serves as the heart of Victoria. Its removal would not only be a loss for those who appreciate its aesthetic value but also for those who see it as part of their personal histories and experiences,” reads the petition page. “Victoria is known for its commitment to preserving its historical landmarks. The city has over 880 heritage buildings protected by municipal bylaws (source: City of Victoria). Yet, this beloved fountain is at risk.”
The petition’s goal is to garner a total of 2,500 signatures.