We are delighted at the granting of the planning appeal for a brand new major landmark, entitled Ascendant: The Elizabeth Landmark.

The 56m tall, public access landmark, by artist Simon Hitchins, will be made from Corten weathering steel, with a dramatic rock slot cut from the carboniferous sandstone bedrock at a rural hilltop site in Cold Law, Ridsdale.

This was an interesting and complex project for Southern Green, and the landscape evidence was critical since the Appeal case turned on one matter: ‘the effect of the proposal on the character and appearance of the rural area’.

In his decision notice the Inspector said ‘Turning to the effect on landscape, I have carefully considered the approach of all parties, and in particular I am impressed with the Appellant’s approach’. In his conclusions he said ‘There would… be no harm, let alone unacceptable harm, to the character and appearance of the rural area.’

Ros Southern commented ‘This was a fascinating project, both in terms of providing an appropriate landscape design for a sensitive area, and carrying out a thorough landscape and visual assessment which was tested in depth at the Inquiry and found to be robust, thanks to the careful work of the team at Southern Green. We are delighted with the success of the Appeal and look forward to seeing the landmark finally in place’.

Click the links below to find out more about the appeal:

55m landmark dedicated to Queen Elizabeth II gets go ahead | ITV News Tyne Tees

Go ahead given for 55m landmark dedicated to Queen Elizabeth II — The Elizabeth Landmark