Stone Restoration for Birmingham City Council

In June 2025, Brooklands Group was commissioned to undertake a specialist clean of the Chamberlain Memorial Fountain, a Grade II listed monument located in Birmingham’s iconic Chamberlain Square. Erected in 1880 to honour statesman Joseph Chamberlain, the neo-Gothic structure stands at 65 feet (20 metres) tall and features intricate stone carvings, Venetian mosaics, and a portrait medallion sculpted by Thomas Woolner.

The statue’s central location posed significant logistical hurdles. Chamberlain Square is a high-footfall zone, surrounded by offices, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. Deploying Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) in such a setting required:
– Extensive public safety planning
– Early-morning operations to avoid disruption
– Careful coordination of equipment delivery and setup
– Secure Heras fencing to isolate the work zone

Operations commenced daily between 5:00AM and 6:00AM, capitalising on reduced pedestrian traffic. This approach ensured minimal disruption while maintaining a safe, controlled environment for operatives and machinery.

The Memorial Fountain had suffered from significant environmental staining, including:
– Algae and biofilm build-up due to water stagnation and poor drainage
– Airborne pollutants from nearby traffic and construction activity
– Mineral deposits from hard water exposure
– General urban grime from decades of exposure to the elements

In August 2023, the fountain’s water turned a murky green due to pump and drainage system failures, prompting public concern and media coverage. These recurring issues accelerated biological growth and surface staining, making specialist intervention essential.

Brooklands Group’s early-morning strategy and specialist cleaning techniques restored the monument’s visual integrity while preserving its historic fabric. The project was delivered with:

– No public complaints
– No disruption to surrounding businesses
– Full compliance with heritage and safety standards

June 2025

Birmingham City Council & Paradise Estates

Commercial

• Brick & Stone Cleaning
• Exterior Cleaning