Plans to bring a giant passenger carrying balloon to Southampton city centre have been given the go ahead.

City council bosses have given permission in principle for industry-leader Lindstrand to operate a helium balloon on a site in the city's central parks, close to the Parkafe.

Rising 120 metres above the city, the balloon would offer panoramic views twenty-five miles into the surrounding area from its mooring.

The balloon is provisionally planned to start operating in spring 2008, with details of the installation being worked through in full consultation with parks users and other interested parties.

The project will still need to obtain the necessary legal and planning approvals.