Above is a rooftop feature, also on the east side of Beverley Road, Hull, (and I don’t know why it isn’t vertical here) a six-sided turret with a clock mounted on one of the sides and the turret capped by a short, concave-sided spire. This, and the slate covered roof, must have been extremely difficult to construct, so why was it so-built. Certainly as an eye-catching, unusual feature, a mark of distinction. However here the feature is not purely ornamental as the turret forms a roof-top room with windows looking along the main road in both directions.
Without any supporting evidence as yet, the building could be dated to late 19th/early20th century. Almost certainly built as a commercial building the clock then provided a sort of public service at a time when few everyday passers-by would carry a watch. Also the corner plot is no coincidence as being sited on the corner of main thoroughfare and side road (residential) was popular with commercial firms such as banks. Back in its early days the building would have graced the relatively high-status ribbon development along Beverley Road, been not far from Pearson Park, Hull’s first municipal park, and been near one of the level crossings of the Hull – Hornsea/Withernsea rail line. The clock will have helped(?) impatient commuters/workers on foot or cycles as they waited for the gates to open.
Sadly this building is now in a state of some disrepair and not listed (as I understand it) but is being targeted by officers of the Beverley Road Townscape Heritage Scheme. It is in a linear conservation area.
It is an example of a rooftop turret, not a cupola.