As we often say here at Boriswatch HQ, the work of the Mayor is strange and varied. Jetting off across the world to represent London on the international stage, dealing with the transport network and Tube strikes and supporting local education and charitable projects.
This week, Bozza’s had another strange meeting – this time to broker a deal to change the lighting on Tower Bridge.
The London Evening Standard reports that ‘an energy-efficient system will be installed before the Olympics to help reduce energy bills and cut carbon emissions. It will also enhance the world-famous structure’s architectural features at night. Tower Bridge’s gothic turrets, central aerial walkway and suspension chains will be bathed in colours sensitive to its listed building status.’ The system will cut energy consumption by around 40 per cent as well as allowing the Tower to be bathed in multicolpured light (for example in the Union Jack colours during the Olympic Games).
And, apparently, it’s not going to cost us a penny. The work will be funded by EDF and GE and the bridge’s owner, the City of London Corporation and the system installed by Citelum, the firm behind flood-lighting the Valley of the Kings in Egypt, the Petronas Tower in Kuala Lumpur and the Eiffel Tower.
Boris said: “I want London to look its very best in 2012 as the eyes of the world are upon us.
“Tower Bridge is one of this city’s most stunning landmarks, recognised the world over and therefore deserving of a star role in these year-long celebrations.
“I am thrilled to have brokered this deal to bathe Tower Bridge in eco-friendly light to create a fresh perspective of this wonderful icon. This is another great legacy for London stretching for decades beyond the Olympic year.”