SOUTHAMPTON could soon become the home of the World’s tallest time piece. A contentious piece of conceptual art, named the Solar Pyramid by its creators, is being pitched to residents and councillors as the landmark the city has been seeking.
The structure would stand over 140ft into the air and consist of three blades leaning towards an apex. At this size it would compare in height to the city’s civic centre and dwarf many other buildings within the surrounding area. The city council has been looking for a landmark to help build Southampton’s national and international identity for sometime; and the structure’s designers believe that this could be just what they are looking for.
The piece, which would cost in excess of £3 million to construct, could also be a means of injecting more cash into the local economy. People behind the project believe that it would attract around 400,000 visitors per year; generating an estimated £20 million pounds for the area.
The Pyramid is the creation of architect Richard Swain and astronomer Robin Catchpole. Swain and Catchpole had previously intended to put their idea into practice in two other locations; both times having failed to push the project through. Swain, who is confident he has picked the right location this time, said: ‘We did hear Southampton was looking for a landmark and as far as we are concerned Southampton is the premier city on the south coast and the gateway to Britain.’ He also believes that the oversized sun dial would act as the perfect announcement for ones entry into the UK, saying: ‘What is the principal point of arrival in the UK? It’s not London or Liverpool – it’s Southampton. It is one of the prime sites in the UK, it’s got a fantastic waterfront, a large motorway network and it’s vibrant.’
With the project starting to gather momentum it is perhaps surprising that Swain is yet to make an official approach to the city’s auhtorities. Council spokeswoman, Rebecca King, said: ‘The council are, of course, well aware of the suggestion but as yet has had no official approach.’ She was reluctant to comment any further on a proposal that it was yet to see. Swain will in fact make his pitch this month and start scouring the city for a suitable location if and when the project is approved.
