ATTEMPTS to restore the historic clock in Ringwood have taken a positive step - despite the application not featuring on the agenda for next week's planning meeting.

Renewed plans to electrify the mechanism and repair the face of the Friday's Cross Clock have been submitted to New Forest District Council.

Those bidding to restore the clock expected to see the proposals discussed at this month's planning committee meeting.

However, the clock does not feature on the agenda for the meeting on September 13.

Ringwood town councillor Philip Day, who is leading the campaign to repair the clock, said he is optimistic the plan will be approved and believes New Forest District Council's chief planning officer is trying to find an amicable solution.

"We have made substantial progress in persuading officers to allow restoration of the clock face and electrification of the mechanism," Cllr Day said.

"In saying that, there is still a long way to go yet."

Cllr Day said he hoped the plan could go through under delegation rather than going before the council's committee.

However, Cllr Day added immediate work on the clock, if approved, is unlikely.

A previous application for the restoration of the clock was deferred by New Forest District Council.

A spokesperson for New Forest District Council said: "The decision on this application has been deferred to allow for further discussion with the applicant about the options available."

Since the July planning committee meeting, subsequent talks have taken place between the two parties.

New Forest District Council's conservation officer recommended refusal of the initial plans.

The officer said the proposal would lead to a loss of heritage and impact the integrity of a listed building.

A petition to bring together the support for the restoration has been created and Ringwood Town Council delivered a Grant Aid cheque for £1,000 to support the proposal.

Alongside this a fundraising page has seen nearly £4,000 donated for the project.