'Spike' sets off on road to Dublin

Work looks set to begin tomorrow on the erection of a 120-metre high monument on Dublin's most famous thoroughfare.

Work looks set to begin tomorrow on the erection of a 120-metre high monument on Dublin's most famous thoroughfare.

The stainless steel monument, which was constructed in six sections in Dungarvon, Co Waterford, is set to begin its journey to Dublin once last minute tests are completed.

A convoy of vehicles is to accompany a 60-foot trailer carrying the components to Dublin tonight, officials said.

The conical structure will be three metres in diameter at its base, with its tip just 15cm across.

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A powerful light from inside will illuminate the perforated 12-metre section at the top, which will taper off to a tip of optical glass.

It is designed to be able to sway gently in high winds to a maximum of 2.5m.

It had been hoped the new landmark would be in place by Christmas, but delays in its construction forced this date back.

The Spire will be mounted over a period of two to three weeks.