THE Vikings are coming to Walney Island – or at least plans are!

Proposals to site a replica Scandinavian Viking longboat at North Scale will be discussed by Barrow Borough Council planners next week.

The metal “miniature” structure would go on a scrap of council-owned waste ground at the entrance to the village.

The installation, made by Furness College students, would be positioned on a sandstone plinth on a newly-paved and grassed area.

Small plaques would provide historical information and two small sandstone blocks would offer “short-spell seating”.

Wooden posts and rope would be incorporated into the feature to reflect North Scale’s maritime heritage.

The idea has been put forward by Walney councillor Des Barlow on behalf of North Scale Residents’ Association, formed in 1990.

Cllr Barlow, the Labour councillor for Walney North, said: “The project is being carried out by me as the honorary treasurer of the North Scale Residents’ Association.” He said improving the environment of the area was an important goal of the association.

The longboat would measure 700mm x 600mm, or 29in x 23in.

Barrow Council planner Maureen Smith has recommended that its planning committee give the go-ahead.

She said the area is unkempt with broken fencing, overgrown grass and scrub.

Previously it was used for parking and storing boats until 2003 when they were moved and the wasteground fenced off, she wrote.

Mrs Smith said: “The site is council-owned but the local residents’ association are hoping to carry out the work, hence it needs to be considered by the planning committee.”

The site is in the North Scale conservation area and the house opposite is a listed building.

A nearby resident has formally objected and said the sculpture could cause difficulty in see on-coming traffic when exiting their driveway.

They also said it could spoil the peace and quiet of their garden, and that any money would be better spent on the car park for the dog kennels because the seating there had better views of the channel.

But supporters say the proposal would enhance the conservation area.

The application requires a change of use of the land concerned.

The decision will be made at a meeting in the town hall on Tuesday, April 16.