The Floral Clock could be replaced by a sundial if the council opts for one of the ideas suggested in a recent public consultation.
More than 1,110 people responded to Brighton and Hove City Council’s consultation on the future of the Floral Clock, in Palmeira Square, Hove.
Half of the 870 people who responded to a question about landscaping were in favour of Mediterranean planting.
When it came to what people wanted to see at the clock site, more than 200 voted for a traditional sundial and 160 for a contemporary version.
There were 140 responses from people wanting the council to keep the clock while 127 wanted it refurbished, 59 wanted a replacement and 31 were happy to keep the broken clock in place. It has not worked in 21 years.
Nearly a quarter of the participants did not respond to questions about the proposed planting or what should be in the Floral Clock location.
Labour councillor Alan Robins, the council’s cabinet member for sports, recreation and libraries, was satisfied with the response and said that there was a “lot of love for Palmeira Square”.
Councillor Robins said: “Relandscaping with sustainable planting looks favourable but there were mixed views on what people would like to see in the Floral Clock location so we’re exploring the feasibility of the answers given.
“We need to make sure whatever is chosen is right for the site and can be feasibly maintained for years to come.
“We’re liaising closely with the Friends of Palmeira Square and a working group. Once we have a better understanding of what’s achievable, given the costs and resources available, we’ll share the details and options.
“Work on the landscaping and feature will not start until further decisions have been made. However, some path improvements will start shortly.”
More than 3,000 people signed a petition to save the Floral Clock. The petition was presented at a meeting of the full council at Hove Town Hall on Monday (13 October).
After a debate about the petition, presented by Hove resident Laura King, councillors agreed to note the petition which left Ms King frustrated.
She wanted to one of the other possible options listed on the council website – an inquiry, research, a public meeting or a meeting with the petitioner.
