Portsmouth Guildhall clock takes chime-out

An iconic building in the city centre is getting some TLC to keep on chiming.

The historic Portsmouth Guildhall clock is undergoing vital restoration work. As a result, the clock will not chime for roughly nine weeks.

Portsmouth City Council is working with subcontractor Time Assured, who are experts in restoration. This is essential for maintaining the clock's longevity and functionality. The five bells in the tower chime every 15 minutes, known locally as the "Pompey Chimes."

Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council with responsibility for culture, regeneration and economic development, said:

"The Portsmouth Guildhall clock is an important part of our city centre, and we take great pride in it. We want to hear the clock chime on for years to come, so it's important we carry out this maintenance now. With such an old building, we're making sure we use a trusted expert, and we look forward to hearing it chime again."

The Portsmouth Guildhall, previously called the Town Hall, was built in 1890. During World War II, it was hit by bombs in 1941, causing extreme fire damage and leaving only three walls remaining. The building was then rebuilt and reopened by HM The Queen in 1959.

As the clock tower reaches 136 years old, some components require taking out for restoration again.

The clock hammer and striker train will be taken down and shot blasted; a process where small particles are blasted at a surface to remove rust, debris and any other chemicals which will leave a clean, smooth surface. Then it is painted with a corrosion-resistant coating, which will help to protect it from the weather for a long period of time.

After the hammer is painted, the chime barrel and springs will be thoroughly inspected in preparation for reinstallation.

Finally, all components, including the hammers, adjusting springs, and cable tension, will be reassembled to ensure the clock chimes accurately.

If you have any questions, contact [email protected].