London road clock is back
Do you remember this?
Last updated 16th Aug 2022
Edinburgh's historic London Road clock is back.
The pillar was removed from it's home on a roundabout in 2007 during the original trams project, but now it has returned after a restoration.
That's as the Trams to Newhaven project nears completion, with a spring 2023 opening still on track.
The clock actually has an interesting deep history, it began life on Waverley Bridge in 1857 before being moved to the West End in 1896, was eventually placed at the roundabout on London Road in 1955.
Specialist clockmakers Smith of Derby have carefully restored the clock, 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 aluminium.
The timepiece was returned to Elm Row on Tuesday (16 August) as part of improvements to the public space at Elm Row.
Councillor 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 it’s face has witnessed many amazing scenes in Edinburgh.”
John Lawson, City Archaeologist, said: “It has been a 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 origin 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 reveal 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, the restoration of the historic London Road Clock we hope will be enjoyed by all and add to the area’s history.”