An artist is “extremely happy” after planning permission for his sculpture to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II in Northumberland was approved.

Simon Hitchens' sculpture design had been rejected by Northumberland County Council's planning committee in 2019.

But after appealing against the decision in March this year the Planning Inspectorate have overturned the council decision and given 'Ascendant – The Elizabeth Landmark' – the go-ahead.

Mr Hitchens said: “I am extremely happy and think the decision is the right one, although it took seven months for the Planning Inspectorate.”

The sculpture will be a 55m landmark, likened to a sun dial and will have markings to note the shadows of sunrise and sunset on Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday in April.

Added to this, the number of lateral fins on the side of the monument line up to Queen Elizabeth II’s age.

The monument will be erected on Cold Law hill, Northumberland.

The idea is the brainchild of Viscount Devonport of Northumberland, who said he was thrilled with the decision.

He said: “I am delighted that the Planning Inspector has supported our project and that the committee’s refusal in 2019 has been overturned,

“It is our ambition to create a sculpture that is not only celebratory of Queen Elizabeth II and The Commonwealth, but which is also a magnificent piece of artwork that acts as a beacon for visitors and tourists to the region – benefiting the local rural economy and businesses alike, as does the Ray Windfarm.”

The sculpture will be made from Corten steel, which was also chosen for its red-orange hue.

After a few years of rusting, the steel will create a patina, a protective layer on its surface.

This ‘weathering’ steel will protect the sculpture from the elements.

Additionally, the attraction will also have a car parking area and footpaths around the landmark.

A spokesperson from Northumberland County Council commented: “Planning Inspectorate decisions are outside of our control, but councillors and the local residents' group clearly set out their case as to why they felt the appeal should be dismissed and put this across as robustly as possible.”