Southend civic fountain's Historic England Grade II listing

Completed in 1971, the fountain - between Southend Civic Centre and the court house - was created as part of a new civic complex and was an integral part of the “post-war renewal” of Southend.

The fountain also features three panels sculpted by late designer William Mitchell - one of the most celebrated sculptors of the late 20th century.

Historic - Southend Civic Fountain now Grade II (Pictures: Historic England Archive) (Image: Historic England)

David Garston, deputy cabinet member for arts at Southend Council, said the listing highlighted the importance of “recognising and celebrating our shared history”, adding: “Preserving our cultural heritage is not just about conserving artefacts - it’s about safeguarding the stories and memories they hold. The fountain is a testament to the innovative spirit of its time and a cherished part of Southend’s identity.”

Historic - Southend Civic Fountain now Grade II (Pictures: Historic England Archive) (Image: Historic England)The panels on the fountain stand in a circle in a round pool and contain imagery representing the motto of Southend - “Per Mare Per Ecclesiam”, meaning “through the sea through the church” and the city’s coat of arms. The first panel contains a trefoil, an anchor, and a grid iron on either side of a vase of lilies. The south-facing panel has a bearded religious figure on its outward face, possibly representing St Clement, and a hooded monk-like figure on its inward face. Finally, the west-facing panel has a fisherman in medieval dress.

Historic - Southend Civic Fountain now Grade II (Pictures: Historic England Archive) (Image: Historic England)

Catherine Croft, director of the Twentieth Century Society campaign group, said:“The towering tablets of the Southend civic fountain are like modern day standing stones - the mariners, monks and decorative nautical motifs depicted are the ancient bonds that tie Southend to the sea. We hope to now see the fountain restored to full working order.”
 

Historic - Southend Civic Fountain now Grade II (Pictures: Historic England Archive) (Image: Historic England)

Eilíse McGuane, Historic England listing advisor, said: “This exciting sculptural work was an integral part of the post-war renewal of Southend and represents the innovative approach taken to civic design.

“It is a rare surviving example of a public fountain by William Mitchell, one of the most celebrated sculptors of the late 20th century. Seen and enjoyed by local people and visitors every day, it celebrates Southend’s unique heritage.”