MERSEYSIDE’S £500,000 Cultural Olympiad legacy project should finally be visible within weeks – after high winds almost blew it off course.

Scientists creating the three mile-high spinning column of cloud have been forced to make technical adjustments, further holding up the already much delayed art work.

If the changes are successful, New York-based artist Anthony McCall’s work will be seen rising above the Wirral waterfront from around the middle of November.

‘Column’ was initially due to be installed at Birkenhead’s East Float early this year but suffered major setbacks when planning permission was held up by Civil Aviation Authority fears about the impact on flights.

An Arts Council spokesperson said: “These delays are disappointing but the Column team continues to work hard to adapt this new technology and overcome the challenges on site.

“Everyone is focused on making the project work and it’s fortunate that planning permission is in place up to next summer so there is still time for Column to become a part of the Merseyside skyline for many months to come.”

When in place, the cylinder of cloud will be visible for up to 100km – almost as far as Sheffield and Walsall.

The installation is designed to be responsive to natural light and weather, appearing as a white line against blue skies or a dark line against overcast skies.