A huge new "totem sign" is creating a striking landmark on the edge of Gloucester.

It stands an impressive ten metres high and the aim is to help put Barnwood Point Business Park on the map.

Business park owners Croudace Properties have commissioned the structure described as "a single free-standing internally illuminated totem sign."

It is in a polyhedron form, with four triangular faces to provide maximum strength with minimum structure. The 'Barnwood Point' lettering is located at the widest parts of the structure.

A report to Gloucester City planners said the sign "has been specifically designed to stand out amongst a commercially dominated vehicle."

It added: "It is not a typical sign, and the intention of the structure would be more accurately described as an art installation. Croudace Properties Ltd are prepared to invest significantly in a structure that serves as both a display of public artwork and a navigational tool."

Croudace Properties bought 16 acre Barnwood Point in 2004 with a view to progressively redeveloping the site. It hopes the new sign will help upgrade the image of the business park.

Illustrations: Gloucester City Council planning department.