IT IS a ground-breaking project that has divided opinion in Southampton.

Four giant laser beams will cut through the night sky from the top of the clock tower on the city's Civic Centre building.

Council chiefs say that the lasers will bring a much-needed "Wow!" factor to Southampton.

Others argue that it would cost too much, create more light pollution and waste precious energy resources.

Today, the Daily Echo invites readers to say whether they are for or against the scheme.

Votes can be cast by phone or through the Daily Echo's website at www.dailyecho.co.uk.

The project, dubbed Southampton Laser Gateway, is designed to look like a lighthouse, in keeping with Southampton's maritime traditions.

Switch-on It will be switched on in April next year to coincide with the 95th anniversary commemorations of the Titanic disaster, which claimed 1,500 lives when the liner sank in 1912.

When installed, the green lasers will be seen from 15 miles away - from the Isle of Wight in the south, the New Forest in the west, Winchester to the north and Waterlooville in the east.

The project is also backed by English Heritage, as it will not involve any structural changes to the Grade II listed clock tower.

The £249,000 cost of the lasers will be paid for by the South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA).

Southampton City Council leader Adrian Vinson said: "The laser gateway is a visually dramatic expression of Southampton's place at the heart of the south, reflecting our city's innovative and creative strengths.

"Investing in the image of our city is extremely important if Southampton is to continue to achieve economic success."

Ros Cassy, chairman of Southampton Partnership, which came up with the idea, said: "This investment of SEEDA funding by the Southampton Partnership is a tangible example of how we are committed to promoting Southampton and its heritage through developing cutting-edge projects.

"I am delighted that we have been able to work with a team of people to translate our aspirations for the city into this ground-breaking project and really light up the city.

"Southampton has a proud maritime history and a commitment to innovation. Our laser gateway captures the essence of the city brilliantly."

n Southampton City Council's ruling Liberal Democrat Cabinet will be discussing the scheme on Monday January 8. They will make a final decision on the project on January 22.