lighting system. After another leak occurred, the water was turned off in 2013 to save costs. As of 6 July 2015, the main pool was filled with soil and bedding plants and no longer functions as a fountain. In 2021, work began on refurbishing the fountain to full working in order in time for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. On 7 April 2022 the Floozie returned to her base. The Guardians On either side of the fountain are two large sculptures collectively known as Guardians. The sculptures – made from the same Darley Dale stone as the Council House – are high, wide and long. The sculptures are not identical and take features from a variety of animals. They have been derided in the past for having faces like characters in the children's television series Thomas and Friends. On either side of these sculptures are two obelisk-shaped sculptures collectively known as Object (Variations). The sandstone sculptures are tall and . The two obelisks were initially refused by the city council, as they were deemed unnecessary; but Mistry – who declined to comment on their meaning – urged the council to reconsider, and they were later approved. They now act as lampstands in the square. Gallery References External links Birmingham City Council page on The River Birmingham City Council press release with video Sculptures in Birmingham, West Midlands Outdoor sculptures in England Fountains in the United Kingdom 1994 sculptures Bronze sculptures in the United Kingdom 1994 establishments in England