Unexpected result after St Enoch clock ownership is probed via Freedom of Information document

The news came after community activist Adam Smith submitted the request last year.

Last week he was told by North Lanarkshire Council that the clock, which became famous after featuring in ‘Gregory’s Girl’ was now in the ownership of Bridges Antonine LLP.

He claims that North Lanarkshire Council simply handed the giant timepiece over and that this could mean that the clock, which has not been on show for several years, could simply stay that way.

Adam said: "Hopefully the clock being under the ownership of Bridges Antonine LLP will not impede any future move to a more prominent location in Cumbernauld where it can be more easily accessible for all to appreciate.”

A council spokesperson said: “The council does not own the clock and has no documents that demonstrate the historic ownership of the clock. As the clock has been in its current location for years it is considered to be part of the Antonine Centre building and therefore owned by Bridges Antonine LLP.”

Shortly before going to press there was an unexpected intervention from Bridges Antonine LLP who had initially declined to comment. A spokesperson said: ”We would be delighted to return ownership of the clock to the people of Cumbernauld and would welcome its relocation to a more prominent site as a centrepiece and focal point of the council’s vision for the town centre.”