Work to start on town clock (From Stourbridge News)

Work to start on town clock

12:16pm Tuesday 29th May 2007 in Local By Bev Holder

WORK is set to start this week on the restoration of Stourbridge's historic town clock.

The grade II listed clock on the corner of High Street and Market Street will be repainted to make it a striking centrepiece for the town's third entry into the prestigious Heart of England in Bloom competition in July.

Scaffolding is due to be put up on Thursday May 31 to enable contractors to prepare the surface of the clock before giving it a completely new look.

Town bosses plan to change the green landmark to Stourbridge's traditional colour of dark blue and gold and they have submitted an application for listed building consent to enable to revamp to go ahead.

The clock restoration is part of a range of public improvements taking place in Stourbridge town centre ahead of this year's Bloom competition.

Lighting columns in High Street and Foster Street are being replaced and new litter bins, fingerposts and bollards are being installed.

Pedestrian guardrails around the ring road are also being replaced and the decorative entrances to Foster Street subway repainted.

Councillor Malcolm Knowles, cabinet member for economic regeneration said: "Well-maintained, uniformed street furniture will help present Stourbridge as an attractive, cared for and co-ordinated town centre. It will restore the town's identity and help provide a coherent visitor experience.

"The town clock is the most significant and identifiable piece of street furniture in Stourbridge town centre and carries substantial public affinity.

"It is in desperate need of refurbishment and we have taken the opportunity to reconsider its colour to maximise its attractiveness and relationship with its environment."

Anybody wishing to discuss the clock's restoration and change of colour is advised to contact Matthew Caddick, town centre manager, on 01384 815496.