Location: St James’ Square

Coronation Fountain stands at the centre of St James Square in Bacup and has long been one of the town centre’s most recognisable features. Positioned as the visual focal point of the square, it helps define the space and gives Bacup a clear civic heart.

The fountain dates from 1953 and was installed to mark the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. It was donated to the town by the Bacup Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society, reflecting a period when local organisations and residents actively invested in permanent civic features to celebrate national moments. Built in cast concrete, the fountain was designed as both a commemorative structure and a working water feature, intended to add life, movement and a sense of pride to the square.

Historically, the fountain forms part of Bacup’s post-war story, sitting alongside wider efforts to modernise and enhance the town centre during the mid-20th century. It became a familiar meeting point and reference marker for generations of residents, embedding itself into everyday town life even as the surrounding streets and buildings changed.

In more recent decades, the fountain has ceased operating as a water feature. Concerns around highways safety, maintenance, drainage and liability have meant that it has remained dry, despite its continued prominence in the square. Recent public realm works have focused on stabilising the surrounding surfaces, improving lighting and drainage, and ensuring the structure itself remains safe and well-maintained.

Despite this, there remains strong local affection for the Coronation Fountain. Community interest and discussion around restoring it as a working feature continue, reflecting its importance not just as a physical structure, but as a symbol of Bacup’s civic identity and shared history.