Scaffolding is now visible as a three-year programme of essential works to conserve the Elizabeth Tower, the Great Clock and the Great Bell, also known as Big Ben gets underway.
Over the next three to six months scaffolding will continue to creep up the UK’s most famous clock tower. In a carefully planned program of works in consultation with Historic England, The scaffold will reach a height of 96 meters to enable access for contractors to carry out essential external works lasting three years.
The scaffolding will be progressively dismantled from the top, and at least one clock face will be on show at all times.
Extensive conservation works was last carried out on the 160-year old tower more than 30 years ago between 1983 – 1985, significant work and an investment of £29m is now required to ensure it remains in good condition and is safeguarded for future generations.
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. Every day our team of highly skilled clock mechanics cares for this Victorian masterpiece but, in order to keep the Clock ticking, we must now take the time to thoroughly inspect and restore it.
These essential works balance value for money with Parliament’s custodial responsibility to the building as well as to those visiting and working in the Elizabeth Tower. This project will enable us to give one of Britain’s most famous landmarks the TLC it so desperately needs and deserves.”
“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. Every day our team of highly skilled clock mechanics cares for this Victorian masterpiece but, in order to keep the Clock ticking, we must now take the time to thoroughly inspect and restore it.
These essential works balance value for money with Parliament’s custodial responsibility to the building as well as to those visiting and working in the Elizabeth Tower. This project will enable us to give one of Britain’s most famous landmarks the TLC it so desperately needs and deserves.”
The system scaffolding giants will also be unveiling a range of new products with live demos, including the HAKI Public Access Stair, the HAKI Bridge System and the HAKI QuickDeck, that is said to be perfect for bridge under-decking or offshore applications.
Adding to the event lineup, attendees will hear from a large list of guest speakers from industry leading contractors, trade associations, suppliers and manufacturers.
HAKI UK Sales Manager Steve Coshall said:“HAKI are very excited about the forthcoming series of networking and launch days in June. The aim is to help raise awareness of some of the latest innovations in scaffolding and access, to showcase HAKI’s new state-of-the-art CISRS training centre and to allow delegates to network with potential clients and subcontractors.
We are also keen to ensure a strong focus on education and awareness, so we have a great list of guest speakers lined up”.
HAKI say There are also some great prizes up for grabs for delegates who attend, including 4 balls at the Belfry Brabazon, PGA and Derby courses and a weekend for two in the world’s first luxury tree-house on a crane!
The event takes place from the 13th to the 16th of June 2017.
to find out more or register your interest email 
