COUNCILLORS have approved a motion to continue work towards reinstating the Tollcross Clock during yesterday’s (THUR) full council meeting.
The motion, brought forward by SNP councillor Finlay McFarlane, called for the council to “explore options for reinstatement ahead of any further longer-term works”.
It continued by that stating that options should include “if necessary, an exploration of relocation from its previous position in the central carriageway”.
Councillors unanimously passed the motion, opening a new path for the clock to return to Tollcross.
An addendum from the Green group was added to the motion calling for “further requests that officers explore with local businesses, community groups and stakeholders opportunities to support this important community initiative.”
The Tollcross clock was removed from its position in 2022 due to “health and safety reasons”, after a routine inspection uncovered a small crack at the foot of the clock.
The clock was removed in 2022.
While the clock used to stand at the busy crossroads in Tollcross, it is likely to not return to its original position if its reinstatement goes ahead.
Councillor McFarlane said: “The people of Tollcross deserve no further delays and the prompt reinstatement of their iconic clock back at the heart of the community.
“I was therefore delighted to secure unanimous approval of all Edinburgh Councillors that this process should be started immediately, and the fate of the clock should not be tied into much longer-term ambitions for the area.
“It belongs to the community and is part of our shared heritage and therefore the council must pursue its restoration and reinstatement without further delay.”
“Whilst situating the clock back in the central carriageway may no longer be appropriate and could risk the council having to move it again if the junction is reworked, the council will now explore sensitively alternative appropriate locations in consultation with the local community and interested groups before commencing the works and restoring a bit of civic pride to the area.”
The clock was gifted to the city in the 1900s by then-Lord Provost Sir James Steel along with city treasurer Robert Cranston.
It was initially removed in 1974 due to junction improvements, but public outcry led to the clock returning close to its original position.
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