Historic Highbury Clock Tower set for major restoration works

Constructed back in 1897 to mark Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee and donated to the borough by local resident Alfred Hutchkinson, the Grade II listed building links Highbury Barn and Highbury Fields. 

It’s not been refurbished since 1997, when it was painted from green to the iconic burgundy colour that many recognise today. 

However, it’s unclear whether the burgundy was the original colour it was first painted back in the 17th century – so a restoration team will be analysing layers of paint to establish the original colour, before painting it that colour. 

Surveys have also found that the tower’s cast iron clock is corroding and cracking in some areas, and paintwork is deteriorating. To get the much-loved landmark back to its best, the clock tower is to be taken to a specialist refurbishment company in Derby, who will be spending around seven months carefully dismantling, cleaning, and repairing or replacing its parts, as well as re-gilding sections with gold leaf. 

Cllr James Potts, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Inclusive Economy and Planning, said: “The Highbury Clock Tower is one of the borough’s most cherished historic landmarks, and restoring it is an important part of our commitment to embracing our shared local heritage. 

“During these intricate restoration works, the tower will be away from its usual spot – and we know that residents that live in and travel through Highbury will miss it. But, this careful restoration will ensure the Clock Tower returns in better condition than ever, ready to be enjoyed for future generations to come. Even if a possible new paint job might mean it looks a little different when it is returned to N5.” 

The cast iron clock tower sits on a plinth of pink granite, is approximately 10 meters tall, with clock faces on each side as well as portraits of Queen Victoria. 

Restoration works are expected to take around 7 months, and the newly refurbished clock tower is due to be back in Highbury in March 2027.