Disgruntled students are complaining that some water fountains at the University of Central Lancashire have yet to be reinstated after Covid-19 concerns saw them taken out of use.

Blog Preston reported on the issue in October 2021, when a University spokesperson said: “Fountains that allow people to fill water bottles will now be turned back on.”

However a member of the public has contacted Blog Preston to say the work still hasn’t been completed four months later.

They said: “Many students have come to me about this issue, as they have nowhere to fill up their water bottles, and cannot afford to constantly buy plastic water bottles from vending machines or the cafeteria. This also hurts the environment.”

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In response UCLan said the majority of water fountains are back on, with more to follow shortly.

A University spokesperson said: “As Government guidance and restrictions around Covid have eased, the University is reinstating water fountains on campus that can be used to refill bottles.

“Nineteen water fountains were back in operation at the start of January after they passed stringent health and safety water quality checks. The remaining seven fountains are being tested imminently and should be available from mid-March.

“In addition, 63 water coolers across the Preston Campus were tested and reinstated in November.

“Fountains that permit individuals to directly drink from them will not be reinstated for hygiene reasons.”

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