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Plans have been unveiled for a huge new tourist attraction over Bristol harbour which would allow people an aerial view of the city from 69 metres in the air.

A glass cabin, which can lift 42 passengers, would allow people 360o views of the city during 20-minute 'flights'.

Built in Millennium Square, Arc, would give passengers the chance to learn about Bristol's history as an accompanying pilot explains the city's history and the importance of different heritage sites visible from the cabin.

Destination Bristol’s Chief Executive John Hirst, said: “Bristolians are rightly proud of their beautiful city with its remarkable engineering history. Visitors come from all over the world to see Bristol and its many attractions.

“Arc will bring a new iconic landmark, something totally unique and a global first. This is great news for Bristol, it will really put our city in the international spotlight once again.”

The project, if it gets the go-ahead, is expected to open in Spring 2022. Once up and running, cabin passengers will be lifted into the air as two super-strong carbon fibre masts pivot on a 3.2-metre diameter base in Millennium Square, (just the width of two BMW Minis, side-by-side), using highly-sophisticated technology designed by some of the UK’s leading engineers.

It is the brainchild of local award-winning architect Nick Stubbs, who wanted people to be able to see beautiful places from above, where their origins and history unfold in unexpected ways.

(Image: The Arc)

Once established Arc will seek other global cities to build their attraction but Bristol will be the first.

We The Curious’ chief executive Donna Speed has welcomed the proposals: "Arc shows how when existing technology is reimagined and combined with ground-breaking engineering the results can be dramatic and inspiring. We were blown away by the designs and the potential to view our city in a new and truly unique way. We are delighted to host the consultation events in October to explore the possibilities for Bristol."

Arc will be fully solar-powered with panels on the roof of its departures lounge. Energy will be stored in yacht batteries, which will also recharge as the electric motors slow down.

(Image: The Arc)

It is predicted to attract 250,000 visitors a year, generating £8.3million towards the city's tourism revenue. The cost, £13.5million, has been secured entirely from private investors.

Academics from world-class universities in Bath and Southampton are collaborating with marine structure experts at Argo Engineering Solutions to assess and design Arc’s complex mechanisms, including how Arc will move in different weather conditions.

Arc Bristol is holding a public consultation and exhibition of its proposals, before submitting a planning application to Bristol City Council.

(Image: The Arc)

The proposals will be on display at We The Curious, on Wednesday October 16, from 2pm to 8pm.

Details will also be on Arc’s website www.arc.global where anyone can also provide their feedback.

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