WATCH: Historic clock tower lit up

New lighting is helping one of Christchurch’s treasured heritage clock towers to shine after dark.

Feature lighting has been added to the Diamond Jubilee Clock Tower on Victoria St so its architectural beauty can be appreciated at all hours of the day.

Shortly feature lighting will also be added to the historic Edmonds Clock Tower on the corner of Madras St and Oxford Tce.

“Both clock towers were damaged in the February 2011 earthquake but have been carefully restored and are back to their former glory. We want them to have more prominence at night because they are important heritage structures so we’re upgrading the historic light fixtures and adding some feature lighting,’’ said Christchurch City Council Head of Urban Regeneration, Design and Heritage Carolyn Ingles.

“As we all know Christchurch lost many heritage buildings as a result of the earthquakes so it is really important we recognise and celebrate the heritage structures we have left.’’

The Diamond Jubilee Clock tower on Victoria St was built in 1897 to mark the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria's reign and is one of Christchurch's most treasured heritage landmarks.

The Edmonds Clock Tower dates back to 1929 and was part of a group of gifts along the Avon from prominent businessman and philanthropist Thomas Edmonds to commemorate the jubilee of his residence in the city.

It was designed by Christchurch architect H Francis Willis, who was known for his work in the Art Deco and Spanish Mission styles popular in the 1920s and 30s, such as New Regent St and the Repertory Theatre.

It carries a category 2 Historic Places Trust listing and is also listed in the City Plan as a building of historic significance.