Bell Tower restoration completed in Welland Park
Published Friday 23 January 2026A ceremonial event to celebrate the completion of restoration works to the historic Bell Tower in Welland Park, Market Harborough, was held today, Friday 23 January 2026.
The Chairman of Harborough District Council, Cllr Peter James, attended the event alongside Cabinet and ward members, and representatives from the Market Harborough branch of the Royal British Legion.
During the ceremony, Cllr James spoke about the importance of the Bell Tower and cut the ribbon to formally mark the occasion.
Installed in 1876, the Bell Tower originally crowned the Symington corset factory on Adam and Eve Street. During the Second World War, the factory produced over one million parachutes for the Royal Air Force. The tower was preserved and relocated to Welland Park following the factory’s demolition in 1973. A commemorative plaque added during Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee is also recognised by the Imperial War Museum.
The Bell Tower’s restoration was carried out by local contractors WW Brown & Sons and Kingfisher Design, with thanks also given to Harborough in Bloom for their ongoing care of the surrounding rose garden. A new interpretation board has been installed at the site.
Cllr Peter James, Chairman of Harborough District Council, said: “This restoration protects an important local landmark and ensures that its story, and the role our district played in national history, can continue to be shared with future generations.”
Cllr Jo Asher, Cabinet lead for Culture, Leisure, Economy and Tourism, said: “This initiative reflects the value of investing in local heritage and public spaces, helping people connect with Market Harborough’s past while enhancing a much-used public park.”
This project has received £27,500 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The Chairman of the council with councillors and members of community groups in front of the refurbished Bell Tower in Welland Park
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