Algae closes Trafalgar fountains

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/england/london/8128651.stm

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Hot temperatures in London have caused algae to form in the two fountains in Trafalgar Square forcing them to shut.

A Greater London Authority spokesman said algae formed because the fountain's filters broke down temporarily.

The slimy growth was noticed by maintenance staff earlier this week, when temperatures touched 30C.

The Grade II-listed fountains were expected to be back up and running by Saturday.

Workers will drain the water from the fountains and fix the filters. The fountains will also be cleared of algae before being refilled.

The spokesman said the fountains, which include bronze statues of mermaids, a merman, dolphins and tritons, would be ready in time for the Pride Parade on Saturday.

The fountains were designed by Sir Charles Barry and were later remodelled by Sir Edwin Lutyens.