In February this year, Nottingham City Council confirmed the permanent closure of the fountain at Old Market Square.

Since then, this area has been allowed to fall into disrepair. There are pools of stagnant water and a coating of faeces, amongst other rubbish and detritus. It has also been used as an emergency toilet by people.

This is putting wildlife and other animals at risk, as they have no alternative water source in the area. I, personally, have collected multiple poorly animals from the area around the fountain these past few weeks, and taken them rescues to be treated.

Given the number of food establishments and frequent markets in and around Old Market Square, it could also put people at risk should they come into contact with the stagnant water prior to eating food.

It is also not a good first image for visitors to our city, who may be approaching Old Market Square from Maid Marian Way, having visited the Castle and immersed themselves in the history of Nottingham and Robin Hood.

Nottingham City Council needs to protect our wildlife and our people, as well as our tourism sector, by regularly cleaning the stones of the fountain.