Halton approves giant ‘flower’ next to Mersey

Halton council has granted planning permission for a 15-metre tall, wind-powered fluttering 'flower' to be built in Widnes on the banks of the River Mersey.

Architect Tonkin Liu designed the art installation after winning an international competition. Tonkin Liu's 'flower' will have metallic petals that move in the wind and will be illuminated in a range of different colours depending on the wind's strength and direction.

Anna Liu, director of Tonkin Liu, said: "At this site, industry meets nature with a stunningly beautiful light which reflects off the water and mud plains. Our design catches the light and the wind, and marks a point on the horizon of the Mersey."

The council is seeking funding from the North West Development Agency with a view to starting building the sculpture in the summer, for completion in autumn this year.

The art piece will sit within the Widnes Waterfront regeneration area of over 200 acres of former industrial land.