Efforts to revive Weston-super-Mare’s iconic floral clock are underway as North Somerset Council has announced a comprehensive restoration plan. The beloved timepiece, previously overshadowed by concrete in February due to a shortage of volunteers for its maintenance, is set to bloom once again with a fresh planting scheme.
Following the intervention of North Somerset Council, which dismantled the concrete barrier and pledged to reinstate the floral display, the clock is poised for a botanical revival. Mike Solomon, the council’s executive member for culture and leisure, revealed that the clock will be adorned with new plants designed to minimize watering needs, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
“We’ve devised a new planting scheme focused on sustainability, incorporating decorative shrubs and pollinator-friendly species,” stated Mr. Solomon. “These plants not only add vibrancy to the space but also reduce the demand for watering and upkeep, aligning with our environmental conservation goals in a cost-effective manner.”
In addition to the sustainable planting scheme, a designated area within the clock will allow volunteers to cultivate their preferred flora, be it vegetables, herbs, or seasonal flowers. The arrival of the new plants is scheduled for the end of April, promising a resplendent floral display just in time for the summer season.
However, the transition from floral clock to concrete canvas was not without controversy. North Somerset Council acknowledged that it was not informed beforehand of the decision to pave over the clock, highlighting a breakdown in communication. Mike Solomon emphasized a collaborative approach with the Weston Lions Club, which had been instrumental in maintaining the clock for the past decade.
“We are committed to working alongside the Lions Club to chart the future course for the floral clock,” Mr. Solomon affirmed. “Amidst financial constraints, community support and volunteer efforts are indispensable in preserving this cherished landmark.”
The Lions Club, reflecting on the challenges of clock maintenance, disclosed that upkeep costs had reached £15,000 annually during its peak. The issue of watering, in particular, posed a significant hurdle, prompting the Lions to seek additional volunteers. Despite appeals for assistance, only a minimal response was received, leading to the decision to explore alternative maintenance solutions.
As preparations for the clock’s revival gain momentum, anticipation builds for its transformation into a vibrant botanical spectacle, a testament to community resilience and collaborative stewardship of public spaces.
