BOLTON Council is being urged to mark the new millennium by erecting a hi-tech "pollution watchdog" beacon. Retired civil servant John Smith, of Farnworth, is gathering support for an ecological beacon which would form part of a nationwide network. And schoolchildren would be involved in projects to increase awareness about ecological issues.

Mr Smith said each beacon would be fitted with an interactive display unit giving round-the-clock details of noise and atmospheric conditions such as air quality.

He said: "I think the beacon would be a great idea. It would mark the millennium in a very useful way.

"It would enable us to keep an eye on air pollution and perhaps make Bolton a cleaner place."

Mr Smith has already got the support of Farnworth councillor Noel Spencer and Dennis Watson, Bolton's co-ordinator for Friends of the Earth.

Cllr Spencer said: "It sounds like a suitable way to mark the millennium."

The beacon is designed by London-based Avery Associates Architects, who say it is currently being considered by councils across the country.

All the beacons would have the same design, standing more than 30 feet high, but could be made from different materials to match their environment. Some could be in granite, others in steel.

Mr Smith believes Victoria Square could be a suitable site for Bolton's beacon. He said: "It would be best to have a central location so more people would have access to the information"

Mr Marcus Wilshere, from Avery Associate Architects said: "The beacons would form part of a schools-based public awareness initiative on environment issues.

"And every beacon will be interlinked via the national telecommunications network to give immediate environmental read-outs."

The firm has approached the Millennium Commission to fund the beacons which would cost between £30,000 to £70,000.

Mr Smith said: "I will be contacting the council about the scheme. It would be marvellous to mark the new century with Bolton's very own beacon."

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