Clouding over the perfect vista

WE took advantage of Sunday's sunshine to take friends from Petersfield down to Goring beach to give their kiddies a chance to make sandcastles.

What really impressed the adults, however, was the view '“ being able to spot the Isle of Wight in the west, and the Beachy Head cliffs to the east, a vista encompassing about 70 miles.

Back in the office on Monday, I was reminded of their comments when reading-up Worthing Borough Council's plans for a government-funded, 500,000 "cultural make-over" at Splash Point.

This area will be the gateway into the "active beach zone", at the heart of which will be Suncloud, a 70,000, interactive, public art installation designed to generate interest and appeal.

An artist's impression shows it consists of 33 steel poles, each about 13ft high, topped with solar-powered lights, which are triggered by motion sensors as people move around them.

My first reaction to this plan is that it's certainly going to be a view-blocker.

I am reminded of that marvellous Vicar of Dibley episode in which Dawn French decides to replace a storm-smashed, stained-glass window, with plain glass, to let the congregation enjoy a natural, beautiful outlook.

Will the Splash Point poles be an improvement on what is enjoyed now?

I'm also doubtful about the lasting appeal of this sort of project.

It could initially be successful, like gizmo toys on Christmas Day morning, which are ignored when the novelty wears off.

I hope my fears are ill-founded, because we really need worthwhile attractions to draw people to Worthing.