Nottingham’s iconic Council House clock is set to undergo major restoration this autumn for only the second time in its near 100-year history.
Installed in 1928 and built by renowned Nottingham clockmakers G & F Cope, the clock has been a constant presence in the heart of the city. It was last fully dismantled and inspected in 1978, and while some minor repairs have taken place since then, it is now due a full service to prepare it for the next 50 years of timekeeping.
Nottingham City Council, in partnership with specialist suppliers, will lead the restoration. This will include a full inspection and servicing of the clock’s mechanism, hour strike, and bells, alongside future-proofing essential components and restoring the clockface’s centre cross with traditional 23.75ct gold leaf.
Thanks to support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the Council has secured £60,000 to fund the restoration works, including contingency for any additional minor repairs.
Works are due to start on 1 September and are expected to be completed by 7 November.
Nottingham Council House is a defining landmark of the city centre, located in the heart of Old Market Square. Inside the Dome at the top of the Council House is ‘Little John’, the famous hour bell.
Nicknamed “Little John” since the building first opened, the bell was cast in 1927 by the world-renowned bell founders John Taylor & Co of Loughborough. It is the fifth heaviest bell in the UK, and its powerful E-flat tone is the deepest in the country – reportedly heard up to seven miles away. Little John was also considered as a possible replacement for the Big Ben chimes on BBC Radio 4 live broadcast when the Palace of Westminster was undergoing repairs.
During the 10-week project, Little John and the bells will temporarily fall silent while restoration takes place.
Councillor Jay Hayes, executive member for housing and planning, said: “The Council House clock is a cherished part of our city’s skyline and history. This restoration is an investment in Nottingham’s heritage, ensuring that it continues to stand proudly and reliably for generations to come. I’m pleased we’ve been able to secure external funding to support these important works and preserve this landmark for the future.”
