Landmark Beatties clock to get £88k revamp

A landmark clock in Wolverhampton city centre is to get an £88,000 upgrade.

The four-sided timepiece outside the former Beatties department store was installed on Victoria Street in 1993 but is now in need of repairs.

A grant from the Government's Pride in Place Impact Fund will pay for the clock to be taken down on 22 November and restored by the original manufacturers, Smith of Derby.

The Beatties family has also endorsed the plans to revamp the clock, said City of Wolverhampton Council, which is behind the restoration.

"The Beatties clock is one of Wolverhampton city centre's most recognisable landmarks and holds a special place in the hearts of residents and visitors," said council leader Stephen Simkins.

He added: "It is fitting that the original manufacturers will carry out the refurbishment, ensuring an important part of our city's heritage is preserved."

James Beattie opened a draper's shop on the site in 1877.

The business expanded and remained in the family until 2005, when House of Fraser took over.

However, the chain collapsed and the store has been empty since 2019.

In September, the council announced plans to bring legal proceedings against Eden Beatties, which still owns the building, due to its "unacceptable state".

It said the owners had "missed deadline after deadline" to comply with an order to tidy the site, which had now become "a blight on the city centre".

The BBC contacted the family for a response at the time.

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