During a special event in Market Street, the fountain was officially switched on, marking the outcome of years of conservation work to protect the landmark and to remember the late Major Whyte-Melville.

Extensive conservation of the fountain’s structure, as well as vital repairs to its foundations and the installation of new drainage, were included in the restoration work. 

North East Fife Area Committee members in early 2026 approved funding of £7,250 from the St Andrews Common Good Fund to aid critical works identified during the restoration process.

The project was initiated and has been spearheaded by the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation. The foundation invested roughly £130,000 towards the restoration and commissioned specialist heritage and conservation studies to guide the work.

Councillor Jonny Tepp, convenor of the North East Fife Area Committee, said: “It is fantastic to see the Whyte Melville Fountain restored and operating once again in the centre of St Andrews. 

“This much-loved landmark is an important part of the town’s heritage and streetscape, and its return is the result of a tremendous collaborative effort and the work of the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation.”

Tepp added: “The Committee was pleased to provide £7K of support via the Common Good Fund for the fountain’s foundations, helping to ensure that this historic asset can be enjoyed by residents and visitors for many years to come.”

Dita Stanis-Traken, chair of the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation, said: “The restoration of the Whyte Melville Memorial Fountain has been the Foundation’s most ambitious conservative undertaking, representing years of planning and fundraising. 

“We are grateful to Fife Council, as stewards of the Common Good, for their support throughout the contractual process, and to our patron, the Alfred Dunhill Links Foundation, whose funding has made this project possible.”

Looking ahead, Fife Council and the St Andrews Pilgrim Foundation are now looking into methods to support the fountain’s long-term future, such as prospects for community involvement in helping to protect the fountain for future years.