London's Big Ben to fall silent for urgent repairs

The Big Ben bell tower is seen at the Houses of Parliament in central London, Britain, April 27, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]

The project also aims to restore the clock face surrounds to their original colors as designed in 1856 by architects Charles Barry and Augustus Welby Pugin.

"Parliament's team of conservation architects is currently analysing the original paint used to decorate the surrounding areas to each clock dial," the statement said.

"Once a clear picture of the early color schemes has been built up, the stonework will be repainted to reflect, as far as possible, Pugin's original design."

The current black and gold surrounds were painted during the 1980s refurbishment.

Big Ben was last silenced in 2013 as a sign of respect during the funeral of former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.