Aims of the Colossus Project

The Colossus Project aims to assist in the regeneration of a seaside town in Kent by providing a unique tourist attraction to the area. If undertaken, the project has the potential of massive regeneration, not only for the chosen town, but for the wider County as a whole. This would come about through the tens of millions of pounds worth of tourism related commerce that the area would then be able to attract thanks to the Colossus project. While no specific towns have yet been chosen, the following locations have been considered; they include Broadstairs, Margate, Ramsgate, Dover and Folkestone. Further towns maybe added in the future.

The Colossus will be a massive human like statue (size will vary with location) presented here as Britannia. Other forms such as St George or an Angel of the South have also been suggested. Its final form has yet to be agreed.

The project is intended to recreate one of the lost wonders of the ancient world, the Colossus of Rhodes, and by doing so become a modern day Wonder itself. The original was built at the harbour entrance to the port of Rhodes and stood 30 meters (100ft) tall. He stood for 54 years until an earthquake snapped the statue off at the knees. Although fallen, it was said that the statue was so impressive that for over 800 years, people travelled great distances to see it.

This site is intended to illustrate what a Colossus of Britannia could look like and how she would be positioned if she were to be built. The Colossus video shows her at the East entrance to Dover port. She would straddle the harbour entrance and ships would pass under her as they arrived and departed the port. If built at Dover the Colossus would be approximately 180 meters tall by 70 meters wide and made of lightweight aluminium. She would either be built onto the existing harbour wall or positioned just out to sea.

It is assumed at this time that any structure would need to be prefabricated off site in order to limit any disruptions to shipping and transport. This would then allow for minimal construction time, given that construction could only take place during off peak hours and weather permitting. The Colossus would be expected to withstand winds up to 120 miles an hour and cater for any minor tremors. The video is intended to show how she could look as well as suggesting how the statue could be illuminated at night.