Historic Fountain Flows Again

One of St Andrews’ most recognisable landmarks is flowing once again following a major restoration made possible with support from the Alfred Dunhill Links Foundation.

The historic Whyte-Melville Memorial Fountain has officially returned to operation in the heart of the town after the completion of an extensive conservation project led by the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation, of which the Alfred Dunhill Links Foundation is a patron.

The fountain was formally switched on during a special event in Market Street, marking the culmination of years of planning and conservation work to safeguard the landmark for future generations and preserve the memory of Major Whyte-Melville.

Dating back to 1880 and the reign of Queen Victoria, the listed fountain was dismantled for the first time in its history as part of the restoration. It was carefully removed to a place of safety, where its Dumfries ashlar, Dalbeattie granite and marble stonework was cleaned and restored.

During reassembly, new piping and control mechanisms were installed to allow the fountain to be reconnected to the water mains, alongside essential work to its foundations and drainage.

The restoration marks a particularly significant chapter in the fountain’s history. It fell into disuse during the Second World War and an attempt to reconnect it in 2015 proved unsuccessful. More than 80 years after the water stopped flowing, the fountain has now been fully restored to its original purpose.

Dita Stanis-Traken, Chair of the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation, described seeing the fountain flowing again as a significant moment after years of work.

“This is a truly significant and emotional moment for me and for everyone involved in the project. The restoration of the Whyte Melville Memorial Fountain has been the Foundation's most ambitious conservation undertaking, representing years of planning and fundraising.

“We are grateful to Fife Council, as stewards of the Common Good, for their support throughout the contractual process, and to our patron, the Alfred Dunhill Links Foundation, whose funding has made this project possible.

“Seeing water cascading once more from this iconic fountain is a great boon for the community and, with its central location, a fitting celebration of the rich heritage of St Andrews.”

Cllr Jonny Tepp, Convenor of the North East Fife Area Committee, welcomed the return of the historic landmark.

“It is fantastic to see the Whyte Melville Fountain restored and operating once again in the centre of St Andrews. This much-loved landmark is an important part of the town's heritage and streetscape, and its return is the result of a tremendous collaborative effort and the work of the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation.

“The Committee was pleased to provide support via the Common Good Fund for the fountain’s foundations, helping to ensure that this historic asset can be enjoyed by residents and visitors for many years to come.”

The fountain occupies a prominent position in historic Market Street on the site of the town’s former tolbooth and has long been a familiar focal point for residents and visitors to St Andrews.

Its restoration ensures an important piece of the town’s Victorian heritage is preserved, while once again allowing the sight and sound of cascading water to become part of everyday life in the centre of St Andrews.

Fife Council and the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation are now exploring ways to support the fountain’s long-term future, including opportunities for community involvement in safeguarding the landmark for generations to come.