Time’s Up! Historic Portrush Clock Saved From Ticking Off To The Past

In a significant preservation of local heritage, the iconic Portrush Railway Station clock has been saved from obscurity and will remain a cherished part of the town’s history.

Local Portrush businessman David Alexander shared the news on social media last night, announcing that the clock has been "retained and will be displayed locally, thanks to the concerted efforts of the Portrush Heritage Group and Councillor Richard Stewart".

The free-standing grandfather clock, dating back to 1892, is believed to be the tallest of its kind in the world. It stood as a silent witness to the tumultuous events of the past century, from Queen Victoria's reign through two world wars, the partition of Ireland, and the darkest days of the Troubles. The timepiece was removed from the station in the early 1970s, and its fate has been uncertain ever since.

Despite its historical significance, Causeway Coast & Glens Council expressed no interest in retaining the clock last year. In April last year, Barry Torrens, the clock's former owner, offered to loan the 1892 Sharman D Neill timepiece to the council permanently, with no fee attached. However, six months later, frustrated by what he described as their "apparent indifference," Mr Torrens withdrew the offer and began seeking an alternative solution.

Mr Torrens, who purchased the clock 20 years ago to prevent it from being shipped out of Northern Ireland, has this morning confirmed to Explore Causeway Coast & Glens that C&V Developments Ltd, the company behind the new Merrow Hotel & Spa, has acquired the clock.

He stated, "I’m delighted to confirm C&V Developments now own the Portrush Railway Station Clock. I bought it twenty years ago, when it was about to be shipped away from Northern Ireland, to ensure it remained on the north coast. It is an important historic artefact for the people of the Causeway Coast, having stood in the railway station since 1892. I agreed to sell it to the new owners on the understanding that it will stay on the Causeway Coast and on display. I wish C&V Developments well in their amazing new venture and I look forward to seeing the clock again in its new home."

Mr Torrens confirmed that the acquisition of the clock took place 'recently'. 

Maurice Bradley MLA said, "I am pleased to share that the developers and owners of the Merrow Hotel & Spa have successfully purchased the Portrush Railway Station Clock. On Thursday morning, I talked with the new owners in my office, who informed me of this exciting development. While I was aware of the news, I respected their confidentiality agreement with another journalist and refrained from discussing it publicly until the official announcement. I have always strongly supported the Merrow Hotel & Spa project. While a brief hospital stay prevented me from advocating for the application earlier this week, I am delighted it has finally received approval following an eight-year planning delay."

This acquisition ensures that the clock, a symbol of Portrush’s rich history, will continue to be a part of the town’s story for generations to come. David Alexander’s announcement on the Portrush Matters Facebook group has been met with widespread relief and joy within the community, as the clock represents not just a piece of the past but a connection to the heritage and identity of Portrush.