Winter's famous clock is set to chime again as restoration work gets underway at the historic Stockport jewellers.
The much-loved building is set for a new lease of life as a French restaurant, having stood empty for the last three years.
Famed for its ornate clock and figurines depicting Old Father Time and a soldier and sailor, it was most recently home to Winters wine bar.
Award-winning chef Ernst van Zyl had plans to convert it into a fine dining venue until a crowd-funding scheme failed to raise the required cash.
But the iconic Little Underbank building - which started life as a watch and clock maker in 1890 - is now being returned to its former glory.
Work will include sensitive repairs and restoration of historic features - including the unique automated clock and its figures.
Councillor David Meller, cabinet member for economy and regeneration at Stockport Council, said he was ‘delighted’ with the news.
He said: “There’s so much affection for Winters and the fact it’s soon going to be occupied demonstrates how, despite this pandemic, confidence in Stockport remains high.
“Winters shows we’re making our heritage buildings fit for the present and the future. The award-winning White Lion and the Produce Hall show that our heritage buildings are at the centre of our town centre’s regeneration.
“Before the New Year, I said how 2021 will see our hard work on Underbanks begin to come together. Winters shows this and we’ll keep everyone updated as work progresses.
“Bonne chance to the next chapter of Winters!”
The new restaurant will join a growing number of independent bars and restaurants in the town centre, including Ate Days a Week, Cherry Jam and The General Store.
Construction students from Stockport college work will work on the project to gain much-needed experience in heritage techniques.
The restoration is part of the council’s wider programme of work to restore and improve buildings in the Underbanks.
Developer Hall & Co also has plans to 'completely redevelop' four vacant sites in Little Underbank and Lower Hillgate.
More information can be found at: https://www.rediscoveringtheunderbanks.co.uk
