Gloom surrounds laser project

02 February 2007

Southampton is set to test the environmental impact of its proposed Laser Gateway project, following opposition from environmental groups and astrologers.
The scheme was first put forward by Southampton Partnership in December as a way of promoting the city and its maritime heritage. Four laser beams would be projected to the four points of the compass from the top of the Civic Centre clock tower. However, the project was postponed at a council meeting in January, after concerns were raised over the environmental impact of the laser beams, the effect on wildlife, the potential risk to air and road traffic, and light pollution to the neighbouring national park.
As such, the council will decide on 5 February whether to go ahead with trials, which would be carried out in the autumn at a cost of £5,000. Cllr Adrian Vinson, leader of Southampton City Council, said: ‘These trials will enable us to fully assess all aspects of the Laser Gateway, in action, rather than just on paper, before making a decision for the long term.’ Friends of the Earth, astronomical societies, the New Forest National Park, and members of the public and council were among those who objected to the scheme. And, adding its voice to the opposition, the Campaign to Protect Rural England said: ‘Boosting Southampton’s civic “brand” by shooting powerful laser lights into the surrounding countryside is a careless, misguided idea. It can only add to light pollution and the perception of energy waste.’

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