Time to shine as historic clock tower restored

A “much-loved” North East landmark is set to be restored and reopened thanks to Government funding.

Hartlepool Borough Council has secured £302,383 from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Museum Estate and Development (MEND) Fund to carry out urgent repairs on the clock tower of Hartlepool Art Gallery.

Built in 1854 as Christ Church, the Grade II-listed building was transformed into an art gallery in the 1990s. 

However, the 120ft-high tower has been closed to the public since 2018 due to maintenance costs.

Restoration work, including repairs to stonework, roofing and windows, is expected to be completed by late 2025 as part of a wider plan to enhance the gallery and visitor experience.

Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, chair of the council’s economic growth and regeneration committee, said: “We are delighted to receive this funding. 

“It’s yet another substantial piece of investment to support the wider regeneration that we are absolutely focused on and are driving ahead in Hartlepool. 

“The Art Gallery tower is a much-loved feature of Hartlepool and a key part of the town’s historical and cultural heritage.

“Thanks to this funding we will be able to carry out these urgent, essential repairs and reopen the tower to the public, which in turn will play an important part in supporting the sustainability of the Art Gallery as a whole.

“Visitors will once again be able to enjoy the spectacular outlook from the top of the tower as well as being able to see the beautiful bells and the fascinating clock mechanism.

“The stunning bird’s eye view will also enable people to make the visual connection between our major regeneration projects around the town, including the Wesley Chapel, Highlight and the wider Waterfront developments.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →