Victoria Centre says it is 'committed' to keeping Emett Clock's 'legacy alive'

Shoppers in Nottingham have expressed a desire to see the iconic Emett Clock return to its original position in the Victoria Centre.

The water-powered clock, officially named The Aqua Horological Tintinnabulator was designed and created by sculptor Rowland Emett. The 23ft clock has been housed in the city’s Victoria Centre since 1973. The impressive feature was originally housed on the ground floor but in 2015 - after an 18-month hiatus for restoration - it was moved to the upper mall.

READ MORE: The Emett Clock is a Nottingham institution - but shoppers have an issue with it

The decision to move the clock from its original position on the lower mall is a hot topic of debate among locals but the shopping centre says it is "committed to keeping the legacy of the clock alive."

Nigel Wheatley, centre director at Victoria Centre, said: “The Emett Clock, designed by famous cartoonist and constructor, Roland Emett, is a much-loved and treasured part of our centre and the wider city.

“Since it was installed over 50 years ago, it has played an important part in so many of our shoppers’ lives – for some, in fact, the clock’s chimes sounded the start of life-long friendships and even engagements.

“While we know the position of the clock has moved over time, from its original home on the lower mall, we’re proud to say it’s being lovingly maintained by a dedicated team, where it now sits in its current home on the upper mall. Our teams are committed to keeping the legacy of the clock alive, so it can continue to be at the heart of shoppers now and in the future.”

Shoppers are concerned that the clock's location means it often goes unnoticed by visitors to the city, who might not venture to the upper mall of the Victoria Centre.

Robert Carter wrote on the Nottingham World page: "Let's put the clock back where it belongs! Many years ago, I made a special trip from Birmingham just to see it. It is very disappointing to see such a special icon hidden at the far end of the mall!"

Sheila Pearson said: "It should be put back, it was a meeting place or you could get talking to strangers & become friends." And Adrian Limb said: "It is a masterpiece and a brilliant piece of engineering, it should be back in its original space, rebuilt to its original working standard. Nottingham should celebrate what it has that is good."

Kevin Edlington Ward commented: "The clock needs to be put back into its original position outside Boots. Currently, it looks as though it's been deliberately hidden away." And Ahmed Cassim said: "It was a pride of Nottingham. Now tucked away."

Do you think the Emett Clock should be moved back to its original position? Let us know in the comments on our Facebook page.