9 November 2010 Last updated at 11:30 ET

3D flying tool for city planners

The system can demonstrate different weather conditions

A 3D tool which allows you to "fly" through a virtual environment will be used to show what a Dundee of the future will look like.

The system uses computer games technology to demonstrate how the waterfront development - including the new V&A museum - will affect the city.

A Nintendo Wii controller and 3D glasses allows people to fly a bird through the virtual city.

The tool was built by researchers at Abertay University in Dundee.

A spokesman said the university had already been in talks with agencies across Scotland about how the technology could be implemented on other big projects.

It is hoped the visualisation tool, developed with Scottish Enterprise, will help increase public engagement when making big planning decisions.

'Real hit'

Project leader Daniel Gilmour said: "With the V&A at Dundee winner recently announced, there is huge excitement about the city's future.

"By bringing together Abertay University's skills in computer gaming and environmental science, we can help everyone understand what the waterfront plans really mean for them."

Environmental information - such as noise, weather or even traffic - can be reproduced in the 3D system.

Developer John Isaacs said: "Using the Nintendo Wii controller and the bird has proved a real hit with kids.

"Every time we've put the system on show, families are instantly interested - and find themselves quickly learning about how their city will look in the future."

The tool will be demonstrated at the Dundee Science Festival.

A winning design was chosen for the V&A Museum planned for Dundee's waterfront on 3 November.

Japanese architect Kengo Kuma beat off competition from five other short-listed companies with his vision for the £45m development.