Draft:Middlesbrough Hydraulic Clock Tower

The current hydraulic clock tower was originally thought to have been built c.1870^[1]. However, more recent sources suggest it was likely built in 1903^[2][3][4].

The building is no longer in use, but retains two large cast iron tanks that would have powered the dock gates, cranes, and other machinery^[3]. Due to its size and visibility it was also used as a navigational aid along the river^[1]. Only three sides of the clock tower feature a clock face, the leading theory is that this is due to the industrialists concerns that dock workers would clock watch^[2].

A prior hydraulic clock tower existed roughly 200m away from the current site. It was originally built in either 1846^[4] or 1847^[3]. It was demolished due to the relocation of the dock entrance^[4] and expansion of the site^[3].

It is believed to have been designed by the North Eastern Railway architect department^[4], however Historic England lists Philip Webb^[1] as the architect. The steelworks was owned by the Bell Brothers and Sir Hugh Bell who was one of the directors was also a director at the North Eastern railway, and three times mayor of Middlesbrough.

In 1999 the clock tower was designated as a Grade II* listed building^[1], and in 2005 it was restored^[3].

It features Red engineering brick with red sandstone and terracotta dressings with a Welsh Slate roof^[1]. The interior of the building features 4 floors^[1].