This evening I've chosen to look though my collection of random Milton Keynes stuff, the first piece of paper I pulled out was a leaflet from 1980 providing inforamtion about the 'new' shopping building. 'Welcome to Central MIlton Keynes where everything has been designed to provide you with shipping as it should be' - This is the opening line on the leaflet, and what a bold opening statement. It then goes on to boast that there are over 6000 free car parking spaces, all at ground level and all within a short walk of the main building. Futher reading provides information on the 'Design Centre Showhouse' on North Elventh Street, where the contents of the house have been selected from the Design Index and many of the goods are on sale in the shopping centre. Looking back at the list of shops, it clear to see that our shopping 'high street' have clearly changed. Opposite Mcdonalds there was once the City Duck (Public House) and not far along was Jemimahs (Wine Bar).. Also gone are George Ort (Bakers), Gerrards (Greengrocers) and Goddens (Butchers). And of course there was a section of specalist retailers, where the public loos are now located. It's nice to see some independent names that are still present, including Stephen Conway (Jewllers). Another big change on the map is the now missing 'City Square'. Orginally a large open space this has since become Marks & Spencer, there wasnt really much in the square just a few childrens playpark rides and lots of open space. I think the best way to discribe it would be a mirror image of the area outside the station. Have you ever noticed that the path of the south side of the shopping building has more room than the north? Well this isnt a mistake, the designers of the shopping building knew that the south side would get more sun, they had visions of people sitting outside enjoying the summer evenings. Which is also why all of the food outlets were orignally located on this side. Anyway - Thats enough of the list of stuff which isnt there anymore, now its time for the infamous advert -
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This year the clock tower in Central Milton Keynes celebrates its 30th Birthday. Originally erected in 1984 and supplied by Haward Horological Ltd. A quick search of the internet reveals very little about the clock, many people have uploaded and shared pictures of the Frog Clock, this entry is my attempt to correct that imbalance. Standing outside BHS, for years it has been used by the centre as a refuge for those who 'have become loss or separated' while out shopping. A recorded message which once played out over the general PA system at frequent intervals throughout the day, which must have become useless now as most people would just use mobiles to find each other.
The clock is impressive as not only was it a working time piece but also a great example of engineering art. The clocks workings are located within a glass display case at the bottom and the bells for the chimes located below the clock faces. For those who pay particular attention will notice that with each of the four main uprights contain the requried counterweights. The clock is a completely mechanical device and must be wound regularly. Anyone visiting the Shopping centre will notice that the tower no longer chimes, I'm unsure if its because the clock is broken or maybe it made to much noise. Either way wouldn't it be nice to get it going for such an important year? If you think so why not contact the Shopping Centre Management and ask them why it doesn't chime? --UPDATED-- The Clock now Chimes! I emailed the Centre Management and it turns out it was already being repaired. |