SOUTHAMPTON'S future does not lie with its past - but by embracing the new technologies of the future.

That is the view of engineer Brian Perkins who believes the city should build a giant wind turbine near Mayflower Park which would shout to the world Southampton's "green" credentials.

Mr Perkins, 40, a mechanical engineer, of Bassett Crescent East, told the Daily Echo that the city should not dwell on its tragic past such as the loss of Titanic to create the elusive "Wow" factor - but instead should look to the future of energy production.

City chiefs are looking for ideas for an iconic structure that would give Southampton an international profile - in the same way as the Spinnaker Tower is to become the public face of Portsmouth.

Mr Perkins envisages a giant wind turbine, similar to one already built in the Danish capital Copenhagen, which would leave a lasting impression in the minds of visitors when they come to the city.

The vast structure could be built at Mayflower Park, at the end of Town Quay or during the construction of West Quay Stage Three and would need to be big enough to be seen from Southampton Water.

A similar idea was floated in March this year by Southampton Test MP Alan Whitehead following an energy summit held in the city last year. The radical plan is also backed by environmental groups.

Mr Perkins told the Daily Echo that local firms could contribute to the cost of the structure which could also host a visitor centre explaining how electricity is generated from the wind.

He said: "Southampton is home to one of the largest and most important wind turbine blade manufacturers in Europe.

"Vestas NEG Micron has constructed a brand new factory at Newport on the Isle of Wight and recently expanded their operation in Hazel Road in Woolston.

"In itself, a three-bladed turbine is a beautiful structure, and it is beauty with a purpose. It is a powerful symbol of faith in the future.

"Obviously, the site is not perfect in terms of wind capture, and the turbine would not always turn, but that is not important. It is the significance of the machine that will leave a lasting impression.

"There is a continuity with past themes, for instance a ship's propeller blades are similar in concept.

"Best of all, the "free" electricity generated could be used in an imaginative way, possibly for illuminating The Bargate."

There are just four days to go before entries close for the Daily Echo's "Wow" factor competition. We are asking readers to come up with radical ideas for a building or structure that will create a "Wow" factor in the city.

Entries can either be drawings or in writing. The winner will get six bottles of champagne. Entrants under 18 will get a stack of DVDs. The closing date for entries is Friday.

They should be sent to David Newble, Southern Daily Echo, Test Lane, Redbridge, Southampton. Alternatively, e-mail him using the link above.