Greenwich Council has approved a walkway which will stretch over London’s O2 Arena and will be completed in time for the 2012 Olympics. The idea was inspired from the walkway over Sydney Harbour Bridge, which allows visitors spectacular view over the harbour.
Only those with a head for heights should attempt the walkway, named ‘Skywalker’ as it will suspend 60 metres off the ground and is 200 metres in length. For the dare devils amongst us, the experience will last around 50 minutes. Greenwich council states, “It is meant to be a challenging and physical activity.” Safety equipment will be provided and people will be split into groups of up to 30 people to cross the walkway.
The Skywalker has been designed by Richard Rodgers, who was the architect for the original Millennium Dome. Mike Davies, Project Director stated, “The rooftop walkway will be a new and distinctive addition to The O2, whilst preserving the integrity of the original structure as well as respecting its geometry and sculptural qualities.” The material used for the Skywalker will give participants the experience that they are walking on the tent itself. The attraction will allow 720 people per day to cross the walkway and will be open all year round, except on windy days for health and safety reasons.
Although the bridge will bring many tourists to the capital, the walkway is planning on being a temporary structure and is costing the taxpayer £4 million. In the current financial times, it could be perceived as a waste of money, which could be used on other worthy commercial projects in the area. However, the Skywalker experience is not free, so the project will hopefully bring in revenues.
Along with the Skywalker, Greenwich Council are planning major spending and developments in the area as they have already approved applications for further commercial property developments, such as a new hotel and a cable car which will connect Greenwich Peninsula with the Royal Victoria Dock in Newham.
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