The iconic chimes of Big Ben will fall silent for four years starting from noon on 21 August, as conservation work begins on the Elizabeth Tower. The bell, housed in the clock tower above the Houses of Parliament, will cease its hourly bongs until 2021.
Steve Jaggs, keeper of the Great Clock, stated that the essential programme will safeguard the clock long-term and protect the Elizabeth Tower. The public is invited to gather in Parliament Square to mark the final bongs before the silence.
The Great Bell, weighing 13.7 tonnes, has chimed hourly for 157 years with almost unbroken service. The last silence for maintenance occurred in 2007, and prior to that, between 1983 and 1985.
During the works, the clock will continue to tell the time silently, with hammers locked and the bell disconnected. However, arrangements will be made for Big Ben to chime on special occasions such as New Year's Eve and Remembrance Sunday.
