The Brighton Beach Viewing Tower, also known as the British Airways i360, is a remarkable 162-meter moving observation tower located on the seafront of Brighton, England. This architectural marvel offers visitors a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, the South Downs, and the English Channel, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beautiful Brighton coastline.
The Concept and Design of the Brighton Beach Viewing Tower
The Brighton Beach Viewing Tower was designed by the renowned architectural firm Marks Barfield Architects, who were inspired by the concept of a “vertical pier.” The tower’s sleek and modern design features a fully enclosed glass passenger pod that can accommodate up to 200 people at a time, providing a seamless and comfortable viewing experience.
The construction of the tower began in 2014, with the steel sections prefabricated in the Netherlands and the glass passenger pod designed and built by cable car specialists Poma. The tower’s unique design and engineering have made it a true architectural marvel, attracting visitors from around the world.
The Viewing Experience at the Brighton Beach Viewing Tower
The highlight of the Brighton Beach Viewing Tower is undoubtedly the breathtaking 360-degree views it offers. As the fully enclosed glass pod slowly ascends to a height of 162 meters, visitors are treated to stunning panoramic vistas of the city, the South Downs, and the English Channel. The pod’s design ensures a smooth and stable ride, allowing visitors to take in the sights without any distractions.
In addition to the main viewing experience, the Brighton Beach Viewing Tower also offers a range of other activities and amenities. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink at the on-site brasserie, café, and Nyetimber Sky Bar, or explore the free exhibition on the tower’s construction. For the more adventurous, the tower also offers “Extreme 360” activities, such as abseiling and zip-lining, providing a unique and thrilling way to experience the tower.
Sustainability and the Brighton Beach Viewing Tower
The Brighton Beach Viewing Tower is not just a stunning architectural achievement; it also prioritizes sustainability. The tower is designed to produce its own energy, using a combination of solar panels and other renewable energy sources to power the pod and its various amenities. This commitment to sustainability is a testament to the tower’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact and promoting eco-friendly practices.
Challenges and the Future of the Brighton Beach Viewing Tower
Despite its popularity and unique offerings, the Brighton Beach Viewing Tower has faced some financial challenges. The tower was initially projected to attract 739,000 paying customers annually, but visitor numbers have not reached those projections. As a result, the tower defaulted on its debt to the Brighton and Hove city council in December 2022, with the debt exceeding £48 million by June 2023.
However, the tower remains a popular attraction, and the city of Brighton and Hove is committed to finding a solution to its financial woes. The tower’s management team is exploring new ways to attract visitors and generate revenue, such as expanding the range of activities and events offered at the site.
Conclusion
The Brighton Beach Viewing Tower is a truly remarkable and unique attraction that offers visitors a one-of-a-kind seaside experience. With its stunning design, breathtaking views, and commitment to sustainability, the tower has become a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beautiful city of Brighton. Despite the financial challenges it has faced, the tower remains a testament to the power of innovative architecture and the enduring appeal of the British seaside.
References:
– Brighton i360 Project Page
– Brighton i360 on Visit Brighton
– Brighton i360 on Wikipedia