A FAMOUS Ripon landmark could soon be seeing the light.

The city's Victorian Clock Tower, which stands majestically at the junction of North Road and Palace Road looks set to have its top illuminated by a 50 watt sodium lamp.

Harrogate Borough Council estates chief Bernard White is applying to his council's Ripon area planning committee on Tuesday for permission to go ahead.

The tower, which dates from 1897, was built to commemorate the diamond jubilee of Queen Victoria. The top of the tower is surrounded by an ogee crown of eight ribs with a pinnacle at the base of each and a metal crown atop.

The tower also incorporates a statue of Queen Victoria over a doorway to the structure.

Because it is a listed building in a conservation area ,councillors are being recommended by planning officer Jane Lurcuck to refer the issues to John Prescott, the Deputy Prime Minister who is also secretary of state responsible for local government planning issues.

Mrs Lurcuck says the work will enhance the appearance of the tower, making a positive contribution to the character and appearance of the conservation area.

Ripon Civic Society has no objections.