East Midlands Airport unveils sculpture

March 2, 2009

Visitors to East Midlands Airport are set to experience a unique sight upon arrival as an inspirational tree sculpture has been unveiled as part of an initiative funded by the East Midlands Development Agency.

Officially unveiled by the Rt Hon. Geoff Hoon, Secretary of State for Transport, the tree symbolises creative roots in the past, morphing into an innovative and successful future. The tree has also been declared a kissing zone, where people are welcome to celebrate being reunited with their loved ones.

Penny Coates, managing director at East Midlands Airport, said: "The tree symbolises not only how far the region has come in terms of innovation and growth, but also signifies the dynamic future for tourism in the East Midlands.

"The project's aim is to both inform and inspire passengers by highlighting the region's unique qualities and strengths, also giving them the opportunity to instantly access more detailed information on many of the local attractions."

The tree was created by Emmanuel Montanaro from design company Can't Dance and constructed by Terance Dickson of Dickson Associates. It includes three LCD screens depicting some of the region's most renowned attractions, with a further two screens located elsewhere in the terminal.

Ruth Hyde, tourism director of East Midlands Tourism, said: "Around one million overseas visitors come to the region annually contributing around £350 million to the local visitor economy, so it's important that we provide the best welcome possible. For many people arriving at East Midlands Airport this will be their first time in the region, so we want to create a positive impression and get their break off to a good start.

"With the introduction of these new features, in particular the iconic tree and tourism information centre, visitors will now have access to a wealth of information and inspirational ideas to help them get the most out of their time here."

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