21st July 2026
Hull’s Guildhall Time Ball is set to return to the city’s skyline following a programme of essential repairs to restore its full working order.
Specialist contractors removed the Time Ball and its internal mechanisms for detailed inspection to diagnose the intermittent fault that caused it to stop operating.
The Time Ball’s system is highly complex and relies on advanced magnetic technology to allow the ball to raise and lower.
As the only one of its kind in the UK, Hull’s Time Ball is a completely bespoke design. Its unique components are specially manufactured overseas. New, upgraded parts have now been fitted and rigorously tested off‑site to ensure long‑term reliability and minimise the likelihood of future faults.
The Time Ball will be reinstated to The Guildhall tower using a 48‑tonne crane and hoist. To allow this work to be carried out safely, a road closure will be in place on Lowgate, outside The Guildhall, on Saturday 1 August, 8am - 4pm. This is weather dependent. This closure has been scheduled after the completion of roadworks in the city centre to help minimise disruption to road users.
Internal works will be undertaken the following week, connecting the Time Ball to its new components.
Once these elements are in place, comprehensive testing will be carried out to verify performance, after which full commissioning will take place to ensure the Time Ball is fully operational and functioning as intended.
The repairs have been completed by specialist contractor Smith of Derby, and importantly, the cost of the works and components will be covered by the contractor.
Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “The Guildhall Time Ball is a much‑loved feature of our city’s skyline and an important symbol of Hull’s maritime heritage. I’m pleased that the essential repairs have been successfully completed and that the Time Ball will soon return to full operation.
“I’m also reassured that the costs of this work are being fully met by the contractor, ensuring there is no financial impact on the council or local taxpayers. We look forward to seeing the Time Ball back where it belongs, continuing its historic role for generations to come.”
Paul Litchfield, from Smith of Derby, said: “We are proud to have restored Hull’s Guildhall Time Ball, a truly unique and technically remarkable piece of engineering. Because of its bespoke design and complex levitation system, diagnosing and resolving the issue required detailed expertise and specially manufactured components.
“Our team has carried out extensive repairs and testing to ensure the Time Ball is reliable and resilient well into the future. We are delighted to return it to the people of Hull and to play our part in preserving this important piece of the city’s history.”
The Guildhall Time Ball is a cherished feature of Hull’s heritage, and the council looks forward to its return as a symbol of the city’s rich maritime history. Residents and visitors are advised to plan alternative routes during the road closure. We thank everyone for their patience while these important works are completed.
