ArcelorMittal Orbit reaches full height
by Pete Hayman | 31 Oct 2011
A new sculpture and public viewing platform sited adjacent to London's Olympic Stadium, which has been designed by Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond, has reached its full height.
The top lattice loop of the 114.5m (375.7ft) ArcelorMittal Orbit has now been fitted into its place at the top of the structure and has marked the completion of its main steelwork.
Work on the construction of the capital's newest landmark has been undertaken by Ushida Findlay Architects and Arup, with the tower becoming the UK's tallest sculpture.
Visitors to the ArcelorMittal Orbit will be able to experience views of up to 20 miles (32km) across London, with a lift taking guests to the viewing platform at the top of the structure.
Guests will then be encouraged to travel back down to the bottom using a 455-step staircase that will spiral around the structure, although the lift will also be available.
London mayor Boris Johnson said: "What better calling card for London 2012 than a piece of truly spectacular modern British art to drive visitors to east London in perpetuity.
"It would have boggled the minds of the Romans. It would have dwarfed the aspirations of Gustave Eiffel, and it will certainly be worthy of the best show on earth, in the greatest city on earth."
A new sculpture and public viewing platform sited adjacent to London's Olympic Stadium, which has been designed by Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond, has reached its full height. The top lattice loop of the 114.5m (375.7ft) ArcelorMittal Orbit has now been fitted into its place at the top of the structure and has marked the completion of its main steelwork. Work on the construction of the capital's newest landmark has
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