DESIGNS for a landmark piece of artwork for Hyndburn could be revealed early next year.

The Panopticon Project will see six modern landmarks installed in each district of East Lancashire, in prominent locations like hilltops.

As part of the project a statue is due to be built in Peel Park, Accrington, but the work was put on hold last year after complaints from the council over the design -- featuring a giant UFO.

Now the council have revealed new plans for the landmark which could see a commissioning process start as early as next month.

But the leader of the council has warned that the borough will not be housing its own 'Angel of the North.' Councillor Peter Britcliffe said: "The political feeling is that we are not ready for an Angel of the North here. We would welcome a great debate on this issue and for people to express their views.

"Certainly the political feeling of the council is that if there has to be one then it's something in keeping with the area, and not something which is in danger of making us a laughing stock."

In a report set to be agreed by the council's cabinet on Wednesday, plans are set out that will see community groups and local councillors have a say in what could end up on The Coppice in Peel Park.

A local advisory group could be set up next month which would have input into the design and consultation process.

Then in December, final designs will be submitted, and the winning scheme announced next February. The planning process would then begin in March. It is hoped any work done would include upgrading the paths in Peel Park so the public would be able to access the area more easily.