Big Ben to fall silent for four years

London's Big Ben bongs will go silent for the next four years from next week as major conservation work is to be carried out on the Elizabeth Tower that houses the Great Clock and its bell. It will be the longest period that the Big Ben will be silent in its 157-year history.

The deafening chimes are being stopped to protect workers who are renovating the Elizabeth Tower that houses the Great Clock and its bell.

The world's most iconic clock will mark the hour for the last time at noon on August 21 and then will remain silent for four years, although it will still ring out for important national events, such as New Year's Eve and Remembrance Sunday.

The repairs are estimated to cost around £29 million, or more than $42 million.

"Big Ben falling silent is a significant milestone in this crucial conservation project. This essential programme of works will safeguard the clock on a long term basis, as well as protecting and preserving its home," Keeper of the Great Clock, Steve Jaggs, said in a statement.

"This essential programme of works will safeguard the clock on a long term basis, as well as protecting and preserving its home - the Elizabeth Tower. Members of the public are welcome to mark this important moment by gathering in Parliament Square to hear Big Ben's final bongs until they return in 2021,"the Independent has reported.

The 13.7-tonne Great Bell has had previous breaks in service for maintenance and conservation in 2007 and was halted for two years in 1983 for refurbishment.