Councillors Give Thumbs Up After Static Balloon Test

Plans to install a new tourist attraction in the Canterbury took a further step forward recently as councillors tested the technology while attending the Local Government Conference in Bournemouth.

The Bournemouth Eye Static line Hot Air Balloon employs the same technology which local entrepreneur Alan Upward wants to use to provide an eye in the sky platform over Canterbury. Local Councillors discussed the proposal at the Canterbury Area Members Panel and Council Leader Alex Perkins challenged Tory opposition leader Harry Cragg to join him in a field-test.

“I knew that there was a similar balloon in operation in Bournemouth so we agreed to test it out during one of the conference meal breaks and feed back our observations to the other members. It was an absolutely superb experience and the views were spectacular,” said Alex. “We experienced strong cross winds and apparently from the ground the balloon appeared to veer wildly from side to side. However, from our position 500 feet up in the basket the ride was incredibly smooth. I really hope we can help to get a similar operation running in Canterbury. It is a unique experience and I would recommend it to anyone!”

If the privately-funded scheme gets planning approval the Eye In The Sky will provide stunning views of the Cathedral and ancient city from a height of 500 feet. From that altitude the coastal areas of Whitstable and Herne Bay will be clearly visible, as well as the lakes and forests which surround Canterbury and the local villages.