PLANNING permission has been granted for a new sculpture to be installed at a village flower bed.

The two-metre high metal sculpture will be installed in a flower bed at Fenton Close, in Chester-le-Street, near to the Whitehills pub.

Durham County Council has now granted planning permission for the floral-themed artwork, designed by artist Graeme Hopper.

The piece is one of several flora and fauna sculptures being installed around the area by Waldridge Parish Council at a total cost of £14,000, funded through Section 106 money for public works of art.

Four wooden sculptures, designed by artist David Goss, are being installed on Waldridge Fell, while other metal sculptures are being created for Waldridge Village and the Poppyfield roundabout.

All the sculptures are expected to be completed within the next few months.