New venue bubbles up on the Tyne
A new architectural installation will soon be drifting its way along the Tyne.
The proposed ‘Bubble on the Tyne' will be a multifunctional space which floats on the river itself and will be used, amongst other things, as a members club. Existing somewhere halfway between a boat and a building, it will be available to be used for ceremonies, meetings, art exhibitions, and other functions
Parviz Alizadeh (Ali), who owns the La Riviera restaurant next to the Tyne, is the brains behind the idea.
"I was looking out over the Tyne when the idea came to me. It may seem unbelievable to some, but after drawing up plans with designers, architects and engineers and working out the maths - it is completely feasible and potentially one of the most exciting additions to the area in years!
"This will be a space for people from the North East and further afield to enjoy. The Tyne itself is widely unused by the general public so here we have the perfect solution to carry on the innovation of the area, while presenting a unique and memorable piece of architecture which is sure to draw people in from afar."
The Bubble will be docked on the quayside next to Ali's La Riviera restaurant. It will be powered by three turbine propellers, and will also have electronic legs which will securely hold it in position in the river. There is also an engine to allow the Bubble to traverse the river itself.
The structure itself will feature a glass dome, allowing a full view from the Bubble, and the floor will be made of toughened glass with a fish tank effect underneath.
Ali said: "I hope that other people can share my vision and help make the Bubble on the Tyne Britain's next great piece of architecture. Our next stage of the development is to gain sponsors in order to move the project to the next level and we are pleased to see that the interest in it is already showing signs that it will become a reality."
• Published: 27 Feb 2009 on Bdaily News
Reader’s comments
8:02 27 Feb 2009
What a fantastic idea - Anything associated with La Riviera and Ali will be good. Well done Ali and Good luck.