Villagers asked for views on Milford's millennium clock amid costly repair and move plans

MILFORD residents will be asked for their views on the future of a millennium clock in the village.

Made by Smiths of Derby, the clock sits above a shop premises in Keyhaven Road which is currently occupied by the Lymington Cat & Kitten Rescue charity.

It was originally installed on the eaves of the building but following a 2013 fundraising campaign £3,000 was raised to relocate it to a more visible setting.

However, the clock no longer tells the correct time, and the parish council has been warned the costs of repairing it will run to at least £5,000.

Another option to relocate it to an alternative site has been estimated to cost around £16,000.

In order to maintain the clock in working order, Smiths of Derby has also recommended it be serviced at least every 18 months.

As well as the cost of servicing, the parish will also have to hire scaffolding or a cherry picker to undertake the work.

Debating the options at a recent parish council meeting, Cllr Matt Goode said it was important to consider the authority’s budget.

“Is this a financial commitment that is the most prudent in the times we have, and how much of this ongoing cost should be born by the community?” he said.

“We have to ask how far do we take our commitment when Citizens Advice are asking us for £250 or the youth club community are asking for £5,000.”

However, Cllr Peter Jennions said the community of Milford took on the responsibility for future maintenance when the clock was installed.

Villagers will be asked for feedback on the location of the clock and cost of repairs, via an article in the community newsletter.