We have secured approval for a temporary new art installation at one of Northumberland’s most popular Roman sites, which will be a big boost to local tourism.

The move sees a stunning visual representation of the original northern gatehouse erected by English Heritage this summer at Housesteads Roman Fort near Hexham.

Designed by world-renowned artist Morag Myerscough, who creates installations and immersive spatial artworks that transform places and champion community and public interaction, the structure is an integral part of the year-long Hadrian’s Wall 1900 Festival.

The reimagined structure, open until 30 October, will be a boon for the local economy as part of a festival that’s already contributing to unleashing the economic potential surrounding the wall’s cultural and heritage significance; attracting more visitors the region as the holiday and tourism sector continues to bounce back post pandemic.

Amelia Robson, senior planner at Hedley Planning Services, said: “This is a fabulous opportunity to further add to what is already a world-class visitor destination with a truly unique structure and unprecedented visual experience. Plans for the gatehouse are sure to be a welcome addition and a boon to local tourism as the Hadrian’s Wall 1900 Festival continues to be experienced and enjoyed by thousands of  visitors this year.”