Share your views at a Palmeira Square ‘drop-in’ session

Residents can find out more about plans to replace the ageing Floral Clock at Palmeira Square at 2 drop-in sessions.

The sessions have been organised to share information on proposals to create a new landmark for the popular square, complementing the Mediterranean planting.

The sessions will be held on:

• Tuesday 6 October, 1pm to 3pm, Cornerstone Community Centre
• Thursday 8 October, 3pm to 5pm, Palmeira Square (near the former Floral Clock)

Residents can also find out more and share their views in our online survey which is open until 14 October 2026. 

Transformed

Over the last few months, the popular square has been transformed by the council’s Cityparks team, working alongside members of the Friends of Palmeira Square.

With the planting now completed, a consultation has been launched to decide on the future of the Floral Clock.

Councillor Alan Robins, Cabinet member for Sports, Recreation and Libraries, said: “We appreciate that replacing the Floral Clock is a sensitive issue and that’s why we are taking our time and working closely with the local community to explore different options. 

“I would encourage residents to attend the drop-in sessions, take part in the consultation and help us create a feature that will become as well-loved as the Floral Clock.”

Beyond repair

The Floral Clock was created in 1953 to celebrate the Queen’s Coronation and quickly became a much-loved local landmark. 

However, after more than 70 years, the clock has now reached the end of its life. The clock mechanism has not worked for many years and the mound and supporting infrastructure are beyond repair. This means preserving it in its current form is no longer feasible. 

Officers have been working with councillors, residents and community groups to develop clear and realistic options for the future of the Floral Clock area and residents and garden users are invited to share their views on the following three options: 

• Replace the Floral Clock with a sculptural armillary sphere (globe sundial), celebrating the site's timekeeping heritage. The anniversary date of the Queen’s coronation will be marked.  
• Create a new sculptural feature inspired by the original Floral Clock, with a fixed clock face showing 19:53 to mark the year of the Queen's Coronation and hold a public competition to design the artwork on the sides of the feature.
• Transfer responsibility for the site to a Community Group to take on the feature, fund and shape its future as a Community Asset. 

Responses from the consultation will help council officers understand which option is most supported by residents and people who use the gardens. The results will be considered, alongside feedback already received and the available budget, before a final decision is made.