Town centre fountain to be switched off

The town centre water feature also becomes a health and safety hazard in freezing weather, Rotherham Borough Council says.

The square’s focal point will be turned off from 6pm to 8am nightly and throughout winter from December to March.

Principal engineer Graham Kaye said: “Presently the fountain is in operation constantly throughout the day and night.

“Over recent years there has been a gradual increase in anti-social behaviour and safety problems in and around the fountain area.

“This has led to additional maintenance visits. Regulating the fountain will minimise problems and prevent any future potential injuries.”

Incidents of late-night vandalism have seen broken glass and litter left in the paddling area, used by young children in summer.

Last month a “large quantity” of washing up liquid was poured into the fountain, which took several days to cleanse at a cost of nearly £600.

Mr Kaye said: “Over the years there has been an increase in reports of anti-social behaviour. The majority of the damage appears to occur at night and at weekends.

“Some of the vandalism has led to various safety problems, which have seen an increase in maintenance costs year on year, but the main concern is maintaining the safety of the fountain.”