BLACKPOOL BEACON AT TOWER TOP

Blackpool Illuminations is welcoming a new addition to the already electrifying display this year, in the form of the UK’s largest and most spectacular laser from the top of Blackpool’s famous Tower.

The 35-watt solid green laser, will be launched to the public on Friday 19 October and will project vivid beams and patterns in all directions.  It will be visible up to 30 miles away and the 10-minute show will beam every night during the Illuminations at regular intervals to add that extra glitz to the ‘greatest free show on earth’.

This is the first laser in the world to be operated remotely via radio control using high speed Ethernet wireless laser links from the studio based at the Illuminations HQ linking to Blackpool Tower and Blackpool International Airport.

The project team have worked in close consultation with the airport throughout the project to alleviate any potential interference with incoming and outbound flights at Blackpool International Airport.  They are also working very closely with air traffic control and the CAA to ensure flights are not disrupted during operational times.

Councillor Maxine Callow, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration & Tourism, said: “This is a very exciting project which will enhance the Illuminations display not just along the Promenade but will be a beacon to visitors travelling to the resort.

“Blackpool has always been synonymous with light and this is a great opportunity to create our own ‘Blackpool Beacon’ to welcome visitors and residents.”

The YAG laser was designed specifically for Blackpool Illuminations by Laser Technology Ltd based in Haverhill, Suffolk who designs for the worldwide laser market.

Dave Hickford, Laser Technology’s managing director said: “We were delighted to be awarded the contract and extremely pleased to be working with Blackpool Illuminations, the true Northern Lights.

“This is the first time we have designed a laser to be used in this environment and am sure this is the highest laser we have installed at the top of Blackpool Tower. 

Michael Wilcock, Head of Blackpool Illuminations added, “

The Tower Top Laser is just one of the projects forming part of the town centre £2.5 million Regeneration by Light initiative which is funded through the Blackpool Council, Single Regeneration Budget and the European Regional Development Fund.

Laser Technology Ltd has been awarded a ground breaking contract to provide monumental laser effects for Blackpool Tower. Five U.K. laser display companies were invited to tender for the project and after completing an arduous tendering exercise Laser Technology were delighted to be awarded this exciting and innovative contract. Lasers will project vivid beams and patterns covering the skyline in all directions from the top of the tower, this effect will be clearly visible from up to 30 miles away, thus drawing attention to the Blackpool resort on a far grander scale than previous lighting effects have been able to.This project will be the first completely remote, radio controlled display laser ever designed in the world.Working closely with Blackpool Council, the CAA and Blackpool airport Laser Technology  have developed a set of safety guidelines for the system operation Blackpool tower was inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris and rises to 158m (518' 9"). It was opened to the public on May 14 1894" and is a member World Federation of Great Towers. The tower is lit during the annual illuminations when the town and seafront are decorated with colourful displays using different forms of lighting for several kilometers along the waterfront.