The clock tower bell at Delph’s Millgate Arts Centre is ringing again, much to the delight of the local community after several years of silence. The bell, which has chimed across the village for more than a century, had fallen quiet following a noise complaint but has now been restored to working order.

The bell has long been an integral part of the venue’s identity, traditionally signalling the start of theatre productions and performances at the community arts centre. Its return has sparked excitement among volunteers, audiences, and members of the local theatre community, many of whom view it as an important piece of the building’s heritage.

Ian Shepherd, chairman of the arts centre, confirmed the restoration. “After several years gathering dust, we have received funding to service the clock and got it running again. The Cumbria Clock Company engineer visited today,” he said. “Chimes will operate from 7am until 10pm only, to comply with environmental health requirements.”

The bell had been silent after a resident complained to Oldham Council about excessive noise from the 120-year-old clock, which previously chimed through the night. The story attracted national attention at the time, highlighting the tension between preserving historic features and modern living standards. The new schedule strikes a balance, allowing the bell to fulfil its traditional role without disturbing nearby residents.

The Millgate Arts Centre, based in the heart of Delph, remains a cornerstone of arts and culture in Saddleworth. It hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including theatre productions, live music, comedy, film screenings, and community gatherings. The venue is also home to the Saddleworth Players, a local amateur dramatics group, and draws audiences from across Oldham and beyond.

The return of the bell has been welcomed by many as a restoration of a cherished local landmark. For decades, its chimes have been a familiar sound in the village, marking the start of performances and adding to the character of the area. Volunteers at the centre have expressed their enthusiasm for the revival, seeing it as a boost to community spirit and a nod to the building’s rich history.

The funding for the repair came from sources dedicated to preserving local heritage, ensuring that the clock tower bell can continue to serve the village for years to come. The work by the Cumbria Clock Company has been meticulous, returning the mechanism to working order while adhering to modern noise regulations.

For residents and visitors alike, the chimes once again signal the vibrant cultural life at Millgate Arts Centre. The venue’s programme of events continues to thrive, offering something for everyone, from theatre enthusiasts to families looking for entertainment. The bell’s return is a symbolic reminder of the enduring importance of community spaces like this in Oldham’s cultural landscape.