It has been over 30 years since the last significant conservation took place at the Big Ben (AFP)
London's Big Ben is closing its doors to visitors- starting today. The iconic clock tower is scheduled to undergo a 29 million-pound renovation project which is expected to last 3 three years.
The renovation is scheduled to begin early in the new year and will involve the repair of the clock hands, pendulum and general mechanism.
Famous for its 13.7 tonne Great Bell, The Big Ben will fall silent to allow the renovation work to take place.
This will be the first time since 2007 that the Big Ben will be silenced, the BBC reported.
The final tours of the Big Ben were held today. The erection of the scaffolding will begin early in 2017 and is expected to last between four to six months.
The renovation is mandatory as the mechanism of the clock is in a "chronic state", parliamentary officials said. They feared that it may fail to work if the renovation is not carried out on a priority basis.
Medium Term Investment Plan of the Parliamentary Estates is providing the funds for this project.
Post-renovation, a lift will be installed and the 157-year-old tower will integrate modern health and safety standards along with fire safety improvements. The purpose of the lift is to provide greater access for people with disabilities, senior citizens and those unable to climb the tower's 334 steps.
It has been over 30 years since the last significant conservation took place at the Big Ben.
The clock faces will be covered, although at least one will remain visible at any time. Also, the bells will toll for important events such as New Year's Eve and Remembrance Day.
With inputs from PTI