National Spitfire Memorial, Southampton
National Spitfire Memorial, Southampton
We are the lead structural engineer for a new, national tribute to the Supermarine Spitfire.
The Spitfire embodies innovation in British engineering. Built, flown and maintained by the men and women of over 30 nations, this iconic aircraft helped to change the course of the Second World War. As well as commemorating the heroic efforts of all those involved, the National Spitfire Monument will also champion British engineering, attract tourism, and become a key focal point for local regeneration.
The National Spitfire Project will support the construction of a new, national monument commemorating an iconic aircraft. A stainless steel Spitfire, one and a half times the size of the original aircraft, will appear to be rising up from its birthplace, taking flight over Southampton water. The monument will be 40m (131ft) tall – four fifths the height of Nelson’s column – a breath-taking sight for the millions of people visiting the UK’s busiest cruise port each year. Glinting in the sun, the stainless steel mast will curve skyward, lifting the gaze of visitors near and far. The word ‘Spitfire’ will be embossed on the vapour trail, appearing in the same stylised typography used in the original marketing brochure for the Vickers Supermarine Spitfire. Reaching out over Southampton waterfront, the circular plinth will take design cues from Allied air force roundels and insignia. At the heart of the installation, visitors will see a Merlin engine under reinforced glass – a stunning focal point, the heart and sound of the Spitfire. Men and women from over 30 Allied air forces flew the Spitfire during its service career, and these iconic aircraft were constructed in more than one location. The outer ring of the plinth will reflect this unity by displaying interactive roundels and insignia of air forces, and emblems to represent cities and towns involved in construction, delivery and maintenance too.
Client: National Spitfire Project