Beacon for regeneration (From Stroud News and Journal)

Beacon for regeneration

HILL Paul could soon be more than a metaphorical beacon for the regeneration of Stroud when it is illuminated by one of Britain's best lighting experts.

Developers Chelbury Homes Ltd are in discussion with lighting guru Anthony J Smith. Stonehouse based Mr Smith is a nationally-renowned expert who is better known for lighting up the country's cathedrals than former factories.

"We don't have to do it but it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to make a building which is already a landmark into a real beacon for the regeneration of Stroud," said Chelbury boss Julian Magee.

"It isn't intended to be Blackpool and will be very subtle but will certainly make the building stand out at night."

There will be lighting around the arched windows on the upper floors, the clock will be lit and slim vertical beams will shine upwards from the first floor.

Using the latest lighting wizardry Mr Smith should be able to come up with a design which uses concealed spotlights creating no light pollution in the night sky and having no impact on those living inside the building.

The system is likely to cost somewhere in the region of £60,000 to install. Plans for the next phase of Chelbury's Cheapside development are about to be submitted to district planners.