EmbeddingGemma 2: an open, lightweight multimodal embedding model
deepmind.google·6d ago
AI Engineering
Hacker News·Aug 11·5 min read
Harry Potter fans force diverting UK-Ireland power link to avoid Dobby's grave
TL;DR
Harry Potter fans successfully diverted a £430 million power link between the UK and Ireland to protect a memorial site for Dobby the House Elf. The project manager revealed that the original route would have disturbed the tribute, prompting hundreds of fan complaints.
✦ Why It Matters
Consider engaging with local communities to understand cultural sentiments before finalizing project plans.
Key Takeaways
- Engage with community stakeholders early in projects.
- Be aware of cultural significance in project planning.
- Consider public sentiment in engineering decisions.
- Document archaeological findings during construction.
Full Summary
A £430 million power interconnector, known as the Greenlink, was planned to run between the UK and Ireland, passing near a memorial for Dobby the House Elf, a character from the Harry Potter series. After receiving hundreds of calls from fans concerned about the disturbance to this fictional grave, project manager Simon Ludlam and his team decided to reroute the cable.
The original plan would have placed the cable directly through the memorial site, but public pressure prompted a change. Ludlam initially dismissed the concerns, not realizing the significance of Dobby to fans.
The rerouting was completed successfully, allowing the project to proceed while respecting the fictional tribute. Interestingly, archaeological findings near the route included Bronze Age remains, highlighting the area's historical significance.