Jurassic Coast's 'Woodhenge' set for two-year approval

The sculpture of tree trunks site in a field at Worth Matravers on the Jurassic Coast

A wooden replica of Stonehenge, dubbed Woodhenge, which was built without planning permission, could be allowed to stay pending a decision by planners.

The structure was built last June by Square and Compass pub landlord Charlie Newman in Worth Matravers, Dorset.

Purbeck District Council said the 50 sq m structure contravened planning rules and would have to come down.

The authority has now said it can stay, pending an application for retrospective planning permission.

Mr Newman built the sculpture just before the Summer solstice on 21 June

That application will be considered by the council's planning board on Wednesday.

A spokesman for the planning department said officers were recommending a two-year temporary approval.

An online petition in favour of retaining the structure was said to have attracted more than 1,300 signatures from villagers and tourists.