PLANS to install a new artillery shell as pride of place in Halesowen’s Shell Corner have moved a step closer after Dudley Council backed the idea.

An unexploded First World War German artillery shell was situated on Long Lane after the First World War, before disappearing in the 1970s.

However, Halesowen North councillor Stuart Henley has organised a replacement to be installed in the area, with plans now being agreed to by the authority’s planning committee.

Cllr Henley said: “The shell is a return of the area’s history and will also be a commemoration piece for all to remember those who have fought and fallen.

“It is great that the plans have been passed as now I can start the process to find an appropriate builder for the brick built plinth for the shell.

“Once found, I can get final costings to finally get the shell installed in Shell Corner.”

The shell has been moved from Long Lane Library to The Fixed Wheel Brewery, although the move did not go as planned.

An issue with the vehicle being used to move the shell lead to Cllr Henley and Dan McIntosh push the half-tonne object half-a-mile to the brewery, where it will be on display while the final stages of the installation is completed.

People can donate towards the cost of the shell project at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/returnoftheshell.