WESTON'S SEE Monster has been shortlisted for the 2023 Structural Awards by the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE).

The 33-metre decommissioned North Sea gas platform was put up at the Tropicana last year.

Visitors came from miles around to tour the three-storey structure, which boasted a wind turbine, solar tree, two-storey slide and almost 1,000 trees and other foliage. 

The structure was initially expected to draw in around 200,000 people, and it was hoped that SEE Monster would inspire discussions surrounding renewables, sustainability and climate change.

It was part of a national exhibition on UK creativity following the Brexit referendum in a festival known as Unboxed. 

The attraction was opened by creative studio New Substance on September 24 - Westonians were allowed a sneak peek one day before - and was due to close on November 5, but then pushed back to November 20.

Even though the structure is no longer in existence, it has still been shortlisted for the award for inspiring conversations on climate change, a topic that plays a big factor in this year's judging.

Other key attributes which will be considered include the environmental and social impact of the structure, the technical innovation and the collaboration shown.

Whilst maintaining a focus on achieving structural and professional excellence, the 35 shortlisted projects are also specifically measured on how effectively they’ve integrated Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) strategies.

This involves considering the impact on communities, such as local upskilling, technical advancements, and originality, as well as maintaining a broad perspective as to how the project will benefit the wider profession.

John Orr is a Professor of Structural Engineering at the Cambridge University and a Chartered member of IStructE. He is leading the panel of judges this year as their new chair.

Professor John Orr said: “As society evolves and the economic and climatic landscape we occupy becomes more challenging, we must acknowledge the significant influence engineers wield over the sustainability of buildings, and their impact on people and the planet.

"Our shortlist showcases this and more, especially the ingenuity of the shortlisted firms and their unparalleled structural engineering expertise, setting a precedent for industry best practice."

The winners will be announced on November 10, 2023.