New lighting system launched in Weymouth
Date uploaded: July 30, 2012
New lighting system launched in Weymouth
A unique artist designed lighting system has been launched on Weymouth Esplanade.
The ‘Light Veils’ scheme involves seven, 16 metre high columns with a green laser that is projected from Weymouth promenade over the beach and into the sea.
Each column is painted a different colour and each includes a different vertical coloured light within the structure of the column.
The new lighting system is intended to be a subtle, phased and calming. The lasers are programmed to change over time moving vertically and horizontally, in circular motions with split beams. The experience will also vary depending on weather and lighting conditions each night.
The columns and light veils come on half an hour after sunset. The laser lights are programmed to go on and off every six minutes through the evening and each time the lasers come on they project a different pattern. They will stay on until midnight in winter and 1am in summer.
Parsons Brinckerhoff Project Manager Bill Norman said: “This was a very exciting and challenging project.
“To our knowledge there is no other installation of this sort anywhere in the world and it is the largest permanent laser lighting in this country.
“We have worked very closely with the borough council and artists Vong Phaophanit and Claire Oboussier to meet the complex design requirements and faithfully deliver the original artistic vision.”
Head of Weymouth and Portland 2012 Operations Simon Williams said: “After extensive testing we are now delighted to be able to share this fantastic new lighting system.
“With the benefit of Arts Council and other funding the borough council has had the opportunity to introduce a new, low energy lighting scheme, which will be modern in its form but sympathetic to the Georgian backdrop of the esplanade.
“The new lighting system is just one of the many projects that are transforming the seafront to improve residents’ and visitors’ experience and help raise the profile of the resort of Weymouth and the borough as a whole.
“The Light Veils have transformed Weymouth Seafront.
“I fully encourage people to come along and have a look at this amazing lighting scheme.”
Arts Council England’s Director for the South West, Phil Gibby said: “We’re delighted that public art has been incorporated into the rejuvenation of the seafront and that this impressive piece of art will be available for residents and visitors to enjoy.”
