The iconic chimes of Big Ben will be silenced for several months as the clock mechanisms and the tower that houses them undergo renovations that will cost £29 million.
Officials say that the maintenance work is urgently needed in order to keep the clock running smoothly.
Renovations and upgrades will include a lift in one of the ventilation shafts to make routine maintenance easier, better access for disabled people, and basic washroom facilities.
The lights illuminating the tower will also be replaced by more energy-efficient LEDs.
If you just can’t imagine life without that lovely ‘BONG’ sound throughout the day, you can hear them in all their glory in the video below, courtesy of the UK Parliament YouTube channel.
A handy Twitter bot also tweets the chimes on the hour
Categories: History, Politics- Parliamentary
London Multimedia News 