The world’s largest clock tower is under construction in Nannup with the development in the town centre starting to take shape.
Installation of the steel for the clock tower has commenced and a crane has been onsite to lift the support columns in place for the 13 metre high tower.
The new building will be a landmark for Nannup with community members waiting for this day for more than 12 months.
Building owner Rob Marshall said the project was a little behind time but the objective remained to get the main building and tower structure erected with roof on by mid July.
“We are on the clock,” he said.
“Once the building is completed we can begin to install the world's largest wooden clock, which is currently located in a purpose built shed out of town and is about to be dismantled in anticipation of the move.”
Clock maker Kevin Bird who handmade the clock out of local timber is excited about the impending move.
Mr Bird said their main concern in moving the clock was the clock face made out of stained glass is two metres in diameter.
“It will be a nervewrecking 12 kilometre drive,” he said.
Both the clock and the building are both privately funded by community members who felt it was about time they took Nannup’s tourism industry to the next level.
Tourist operators were anticipating a surge of visitors once the Nannup Clock Tower opened.
The project will include an interpretive display and audio tour as well as wood exhibits all inside this iconic new building by local architect Paul Meschiati and Associates.
Even though Perth builder Art Verhagen was delivering the project, he used local contractors where he could.
South West Development Commission Warren Blackwood district officer Billy Wellstead said local content was an important aspect of the project.
“It is great to see local contractors on the build supporting the local economy and providing jobs” she said.
Tourism Industry business development officer Mark Exeter said he was very enthusiastic about the project.
“It is important to develop new tourist attractions to give visitors a reason to stay longer. This in turn leads to greater employment opportunities,” he said.
