The clock tower at Smethwick Council House has been given a new lease of life.
Missing and broken timberwork has been fixed, the metalwork on the clock face has been repainted and the tower itself has been returned to its original colour scheme.
The work is part of the refurbishment of the Grade II-listed building in the town’s High Street. It was built in the early 20th century.
Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for core council services Councillor Steve Trow said: “The tower was looking a little tired and in need of repairs. We’ve carefully restored it and even matched as best we can the original colour scheme based on the layers of paint found on the woodwork and panels.
“The clock itself is historically important and one of the last of its type still in existence – so we’re pleased that the tower now does it justice.”
The clock is known as a rare “three-train Smith of Derby flat-bed with gravity escapement”. It’s regarded as an important piece of horological history.
Clock enthusiasts have visited it to admire its workings – as most of its kind were converted with electricity many years ago.
