COUNCILLORS will discuss the progress of plans to create the North-East's latest piece of public art when they meet tomorrow.

Members of Durham County Council's cabinet are to discuss a progress report on plans to build a piece of sculpture on land near its headquarters, in Durham City.

The 50ft stainless steel Sky Bowl - dubbed the Durham Wok - would be visible on the skyline to visitors arriving in the city from the A1(M) and East Coast Main Line.

The sculpture, to be designed by Swedish artist Pal Svensson, has provoked considerable debate in the city.

While many bodies and residents in the city are supporting the proposal, others say it will detract from its heritage, while there have also been calls for it to be replaced with a monument to the area's mining roots.

At the meeting, in County Hall, councillors will be asked to endorse recommendations to begin a full engineering study into the sculpture.

It would consider alternatives to using stainless steel, such as carbon fibre, which would provide a mirrored finish, but be appropriate to the North-East climate.

The study would also look into the foundations of the sculpture, topography and health and safety issues.