Iconic Big Ben to made quiet for repair works

The iconic Big Ben is one of London’s most popular attractions, standing by the Thames and within the palaces of Westminster, but its famous gongs will fall silent when it will be covered in scaffolding from early 2017 to carry out urgent repairs.

The repairs are expected to cost £27 million over three years, parliament officials announced on Tuesday.

Completed in 1856, it was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 as part of the diamond jubilee celebrations of the Queen’s reign.

“Problems have been identified with the clock hands, mechanism and pendulum, which need to be dealt with immediately to ensure that the clock can continue to work properly… we have already identified areas of concern, including cracks in masonry, leaks, erosion, and severe rusting of metalwork,” a statement said.

“There is a risk that if not addressed as a matter of urgency, the clock may fail or fabric problems may become acute. In addition, the Tower needs to be brought in line with fire prevention guidance, and health and safety measures for staff and visitors need to be improved,” it added.

The clock mechanism will be stopped for several months and there will be no chimes during the period at the Unesco World Heritage site, officials said.

Steve Jaggs, keeper of the clock, said: “This historic clock is loved by so many people. It is both an honour and a great responsibility to keep it in good working order for public enjoyment.

CLOCK MECHANISM WILL BE STOPPED FOR SEVERAL MONTHS AND THERE WILL BE NO CHIMES DURING THE SIX-MONTH PERIOD