Successful funding bid to bring back Lye clock

The clock will be installed near to the junction with Pedmore Road over the winter months.

The four-metre tall clock was designed in the 1980s by borough artist Steve Field, to represent the local area – featuring 'frost cogs' which was a Lye invention in the industrial revolution to help prevent horses slipping on ice.

It also features hexagonal forged ingots which were made in the town.

It has been in storage for the last five years after it was removed from the High Street in 2014 to make way for a development.

A campaign was launched to bring it back and a funding bid submitted to Ibstock Enovert Trust, through the Landfill Communities Fund, for £14,400 to help get the clock restored and put back in public view.

The clock will be installed outside 1-2 High Street. The latest funding adds to £5,000 already secured by the Caledonia Residents Association, which was instrumental in kick-starting the campaign to reinstate the clock.

Councillor Ian Kettle, Dudley Council's cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise, said: "The local people of Lye have been asking for the clock to be put into the High Street for some time and I am glad the council has been able to secure some money to be able to do that.

"The clock reflects the industry and history of this important area and I am very much looking forward to seeing it back in the centre of the town.”

The clock is currently being restored with new clock faces and workings.