The project, which is being led by the city council in partnership with the Friends of Herne Bay Clock Tower community group, will see major refurbishment of the building together with new educational activities.

Modern LED lighting will be installed, along with four webcams on the top of the Clock Tower and one inside showing the workings, with the pictures relayed live to a website.     

Displays relating to the history of the Clock Tower will also be created in a shop on the seafront as a visitor attraction and resource for schools. Other activities include publishing an updated version of a book about the Clock Tower by local historian Mike Bundock and the development of culture and heritage walks around the town in partnership with Herne Bay Improvement Trust.

The project began in autumn 2012 when the council submitted a phase one funding bid to HLF. In April 2013, a development grant of £16,100 was awarded and work began on the phase two bid for the full grant. The council is also contributing £100,000 to the project.

Residents will see things happening very soon, as restoration work to the Clock Tower’s stonework is scheduled to begin in May.

Executive member for Herne Bay regeneration, Cllr Peter Lee, said: “So much hard work went into the bid for this Heritage Lottery Fund grant and I am very pleased for everyone who has been involved that we have been successful. It really is fantastic news.

“The people of Herne Bay love their Clock Tower. It’s wonderful that we will now be able to fully restore it and create a new attraction on the seafront for people to visit, learn about and enjoy.”

Stuart McLeod, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund South East, said: “Herne Bay Clock Tower is a powerful reminder of the town’s Victorian heritage and a well-loved landmark for local people and visitors. HLF’s funding will help restore the historic clock and a put on a range of activities and events enabling local people to learn about its importance and enjoy it long into the future.”