POOLE'S Imax - that's the view some residents have of the giant sundial that could grace a waterside leisure park.

The Solar Pyramid, a 45-metre-tall tourist attraction proposed for Harbourside Park, has attracted more thumbs down than up.

"To even consider allowing such a monstrous development on this park is an act of betrayal to the people of Poole," said David Howard, chairman of Parkstone Bay Association.

He said this "outrageous proposal" should never even have been considered - up to 400,000 people a year descending on a dense residential area of 1,500 homes.

The majority of views on the Daily Echo website have been anti and when we sampled public opinion at Baiter, most thought it the wrong place for a massive tourist attraction.

Pete Clifford, a landscape gardener from Trowbridge who has worked extensively in the area said: "I do a lot of work around Bristol and they have a lot of sculptures like this, but the kids just graffiti all over them."

Pat McCabe, fellow landscaper said: "It would look a hell of a lot better dumped at the bottom of the harbour. I don't think it should be built - it is an eyesore."

Poole pensioner Irene Thomas, aged 88, a regular at Harbourside Park said: "I don't think it is too big.

"I cannot believe it is going to be put here, but I have to admit, I think it is nice. On a cold day like today you can drive down here, stay in the car and have something nice to look at."

Husband Nestor Thomas, 92, added: "It is better than the Sea Music statue at Poole Quay. I know it is large, but I don't think it will necessarily be obtrusive."

Les Noble, a regular visitor to Baiter said: "It would be a travesty to ruin the amazing view across Poole Harbour. This is a good idea, but is in the wrong spot.

"Ambitious projects can work - just look at the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth. But Portsmouth's tower works because planners have clearly thought out the site."

Wife Angela added: "I think this pyramid will destroy the view. The positioning is wrong and it will never look like part of the surrounding environment."

Retired West Moors resident Thomas Peace, who has enjoyed the park for decades, said: "To be honest, it is quite a striking piece. I think it could look at home here.

"I guess a lot depends on the way the shadow is cast from the structure - which parts of the park will be covered by shadow, and which parts will still see the sun."

His wife Patricia added: "I think it will be a positive thing for the area. I like it."