In London, you may want to watch out where you park. It’s not just a matter of getting towed; your car may actually be melted if it’s sitting in the wrong place at the wrong time. Construction on the “Walkie Talkie” building, nicknamed for its shape, may be taking a change in direction after events unfolded Monday. A jaguar that had been parked near the building, which is being constructed on Fenchurch Street, was parked for two hours. Upon return to the vehicle, the owner said that the rear-view mirror was melted, along with the jaguar badge, and some panels.
Change in Plans
The construction crew had left a note for the owner of the vehicle. The company that is constructing the building, the Canary Wharf Group and Land Securities, is taking full responsibility for fixing the car. The company has also released a statement saying that they are taking the situation very seriously, and plan to prevent further damage to property and vehicles while they change the construction plans.
The shape of the building, which was designed by architect Rafael Vinoly, acts as a lens that focuses the sunlight in much the same way a magnifying glass will. While the changes being made will make the building a little less death-ray, the builders say that they will not involve major reconstructive efforts or cash. The construction firm says that certain films will inhibit the magnifying glass effect, while not altering the appearance or forcing any demolition on already completed work.