Decision day looms on Christie Clock with repair bills between £34k and £874k

Decision day is looming for Stirling’s iconic Christie Clock, with repair bills ranging from £34,000 to £874,000. The clock, which dates back to 1905-06, faced controversy after being demolished in a botched job, sparking outrage across the city. Councillors will convene to consider four options for the clock’s restoration during a full meeting of Stirling Council. Three of the proposed options exceed £800,000 and involve varying degrees of restoration, while the fourth option, costing £33,800, focuses on preserving the plinth for potential future restoration.

The demolition of the listed clock in September 2023 was described as a “jaw-dropping sequence of missed opportunities” and a “systematic failure.” Among the repair options are a clock and column restoration scheme costing £873,460, which was previously rejected for more cost-effective solutions. Other options include the restoration of the clock head with a new stone column (£827,850) and a new stone clock head and column (£808,753). The officer’s report highlights that all three primary options have similar costs, with option one recommended for its conservation approach to retain the original structure.

If councillors choose not to proceed with the first three options, it is recommended to select option four to protect the plinth. This option includes installing a bespoke stone cap on the plinth, cleaning, repointing, and undertaking moderate interventions for future longevity. The stonework removed from the clock tower would be preserved for potential reinstatement in the future. A budget allocation of £873,000 split across financial years 2025/26 and 2026/27 would be required if councillors approve any of the first three options.

In summary, the fate of Stirling’s Christie Clock hangs in the balance as councillors weigh the repair options, mindful of preserving the city’s historic landmark while balancing cost considerations.

Insights and Summary:
The article discusses the impending decision to repair Stirling’s historic Christie Clock, which faced demolition in a controversial incident. The four restoration options presented to the council highlight the complexities of balancing preservation with cost-efficiency. The community’s attachment to the clock underscores the significance of historical landmarks in shaping local identity. The detailed breakdown of repair costs provides transparency in decision-making and accountability to the public. This story showcases the intersection of heritage preservation, municipal governance, and community engagement in urban development.