A massive mystery structure, billed as a world class tourist attraction, is being proposed for Poole.

It would tower 58 metres (195ft) tall, looming over the South Coast skyline and could attract 400,000 visitors a year to the town.

Despite its huge size - its base would stretch 65 metres - the idea is being kept under wraps by the Borough of Poole, which is considering a proposal from a private company.

The confidential project, which was taken before a closed meeting of the council's town centre and bridge advisory group, has a strong scientific element.

If Poole secures this feature, which would tower over the 20 metre (65ft) high Angel of the North at Gateshead, it would be built on council-owned land, would include a visitor centre and people would be able to "buy" into it.

Jim Bright, strategic director, Borough of Poole said: "We have been approached by a private company with an outline proposal to bring a world-class visitor attraction to Poole which would have significant potential to boost the town's economy and national profile.

"Following preliminary discussions a report has been presented to councillors and we will now assess whether the project is a viable option for Poole."

He added: The commercially sensitive nature of this proposal prevents us from saying any more at this early stage."

Liberal Democrat Cllr Phil Eades is upset at the secrecy and has already called at cabinet for it to be thrown out.

"It's not a tourist attraction. As far as I am concerned it's a private enterprise and shouldn't be on council land," he said.

The Daily Echo cannot yet reveal the details of this unique attraction but expects to be able to unveil more about it in a few weeks' time.