Expert concerned by £9m dragon tower plan

A dragon on a tower planned for the Shropshire border would have a "major impact" on the landscape if it was painted red, it has been warned.

Councillors will meet on Monday to consider the planning application for the 64-metre high "Dragon Tower'' for land at Halton near Chirk.

Last month they deferred a decision calling for more information saying they wanted to see a red dragon, not one that could weather in time and change colour.

They also called for more information on the impact the structure would have on the landscape.

The landmark project is being planned by Erbistock arts dealer Simon Wingett who says the new tower would rival the iconic Angel of the North statue.

He said the £9 million scheme would create 50 jobs, providing a gallery, bar, restaurant and language study centre as well as tourist information.

Following the concern about the colour Mr Wingett sought expert advice. It says although the bronze would weather in time, provided it was treated and waxed it should retain its bronze hue for at least 25 years.

But the expert said applying a red colour would make the dragon more noticeable. "The magnitude of impact would be considered to be unacceptable," he said.