Big Ben is set to lose his voice
The familiar chimes of Big Ben are due to fall silent for several months so repair works can be carried out. The repairs will not only affect the timepiece itself but also the 96-metre (315ft) Elizabeth Tower - completed in 1856 - that holds the clock. Cracks have appeared in the tower's masonry and there is also corrosion on the roof, belfry and frame holding the bells (including the Big Ben bell that has been responsible for the tower's enduring nickname).
The refurbishment may also include a new colour scheme for the clock faces. The existing black and gold colour scheme was applied in the 1980's, but conservation architects have decided to analyse the original paint colour with a view to restoring the clock faces to the original colour scheme intended by Victorian architect Augustus Pugin.
We never miss an appointment to show our clients the wide range of Westminster property for sale or rent, which we have on our books, but we will certainly miss Big Ben's chimes. We look forward to next year, when the world's most famous clock will be unveiled, with a fresh coat of paint and a mechanism that will keep it working for another 160 years.
If you are looking for Westminster flats or houses, or if you'd like a property valuation on your Westminster home, call us at Daniel Cobb today. For information on preparing your home for the market, read Five tips to make buyers fall in love with your London property and to view an ancient engraving of the iconic city of London see Experience the capital's changing skyline: 1666-2016.
"A House of Commons spokeswoman said the clock mechanism will need to be stopped for several months in order to carry out essential maintenance. During this period there will be no chimes."
