A historic clock dating from 1857 has been returned to Leith Walk following 15 years of storage and an extensive restoration. The clock was removed back in 2007 during construction works for the original tram project and with works on the current Trams to Newhaven project continuing to mark good progress it has now been possible for it to be returned.
The clock was originally located on Waverley Bridge from 1857 and was then moved to West End in 1896. Its move to London Road came in 1955 and there it remained until 2007 when it was moved to ensure it didn’t get damaged during tram construction works and to allow it to be fully restored. It has now been placed on Elm Row as part of the improvements to the public space.
It has been restored by specialist clockmakers Smith of Derby which has involved dismantling it, priming and repainting all parts, hand painting ornate features in gold and repairing the Coat of Arms of Edinburgh, including casting a new deer from aluminum.
Cllr Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “Trams to Newhaven is of significance for communities on the route, not only through delivering a sustainable, high-capacity travel option, but by making real improvements to public spaces along the way. I’m sure the return of the London Road clock will be welcome news to many, and thanks to its full restoration it will add a striking finishing touch to the area’s transformation. It has a rich history, and I’m sure the clock has witnessed many amazing scenes in Edinburgh.”
John Lawson, City Archaeologist, said: “It has been fascinating to work with Smith of Derby in restoring this iconic clock back to its original condition and with a new striking paint scheme reflecting what we believe to be close to its original Victorian look. The process has proved more complex than first thought. What was thought to be a simple iron casting in four parts has been revealed by Smith’s conservation work to be a more intricate design, with individual detailed castings added separately to the main column. Along with the Elm Row pigeons, we hope the historic London Road Clock will be enjoyed by all and add to the area’s history.”
The wider Trams to Newhaven project is still reported as being on schedule for completion by Spring 2023 and within the £207.3 million budget and all construction is scheduled to be finished by the end of the year with testing and commissioning then following. 93% of track slab has now been installed, all utility diversions have taken place and construction works on tramstops at Constitution Street, McDonald Road, Ocean Terminal and Foot of the Walk are complete.