Architect's New Horizon sculpture of mirrored steel will sit at heart of 拢3.5m redevelopment of St John's Precinct

The city of Blackpool is to get a new illumination for one of its busiest public spaces.

The New Horizon sculpture, designed by architect leit-werk, will form the centre-piece of the 拢3.5m redevelopment of St John鈥檚 Precinct.

Standing twelve metres high and made of mirrored steel, New Horizon will reflect the light from the sun, sky and sea by the northern town.

The space around the sculpture will become a flexible plaza for markets, caf茅 and street performances.

Free wifi and specially-designed urban furniture will encourage students, tourists and residents to use the Precinct as an urban hub.

The project is being overseen by urban regeneration company ReBlackpool, and delivered by Blackpool Council with the Northwest Regional Development Agency. Subject to approval, construction will begin in March 2008.

Blackpool is famous for its autumn illuminations, a stretch of neon lights and sculptures along the town鈥檚 seafront.