New clock plans for Highbridge (From Burnham & Highbridge Weekly News)

New clock plans for Highbridge

10:46am Tuesday 2nd February 2010

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HIGHBRIDGE could have a brand new town clock after councillors voted to replace the landmark, the Weekly News can reveal.

Members of Burnham and Highbridge Town Council voted to replace rather than repair the existing clock at a meeting on Monday night, after a new way of funding the structure came to light.

Up to £15,000 from developer Raglan Homes could now be used, along with money from the town council and cash collected by passionate Highbridge clock supporters, to replace the ‘three-faced liar’ at Jubilee Gardens.

A deal just has to be reached between Raglan and Sedgemoor District Council.

Highbridge councillor Joe Leach told the Weekly News: “I am absolutely elated.

“Lots of people have memories attached to the clock and it is one of the last remaining landmarks in Highbridge.”

The Weekly News supported a campaign by residents and civic leaders in the town to save the famous clock after concerns were raised by Burnham and Highbridge Mayor cllr Derick Cooper over the future of the land it was situated on.

But now, after positive signals over the land’s future from Sedgemoor District Council, money from Raglan Homes towards ‘public art’ on a nearby development will be sought to help pay for a new timepiece.

It is hoped a new metal, three-faced structure can be erected in the same spot it stands today.

Eileen Shaw, clerk of Burnham and Highbridge Town Council, added: “There is still some negotiating to be done.

“But this is certainly a step forward in the direction of getting a new clock.”

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