A GROUP plans to organise an art installation and tours for Diglis Island as part of an effort to revitalise the landmark.

In a play on the Hollywood sign, The Canal and River Trust plans to build wooden huts on the island, adorned with letters spelling out 'Diglis Island'.

The planning application submitted to Worcester City Council also recommends illuminating the structures for parts of the night and launching tours of the island.

Currently on the island there are three cottages, including a holiday cottage where people can stay, and an abandoned crane and workshop.

Ed Fox, spokesman for the Canal and River Trust, said: "We hope it will encourage local people and visitors to look at Diglis Island, and the waterways, in a new light, celebrating their past while also reimagining their future.

"This application is part of a series of exciting projects we have planned for 2018 to celebrate the rebirth of Worcestershire’s canals and rivers."

Cllr Lucy Hodgson, chairman of the city council's place and economic development sub-committee, said the island was in an 'unloved' section of the River Severn and supported efforts to improve it.

She said: "Anything to bring out the history and heritage of the area is a good thing."

Construction work is due to begin in February and a structure will also be built on the mainland at the end of March, although all of the huts will be removed in September.

The project is expected to cost a total of £12,500 and has been designed by Bristol-based sculptor Rich White.

The application is part of an art initiative, called The Ring, which was launched by Arts Council England and the Canal and River Trust in celebration of waterways in and around Worcester and Droitwich.

The Trust hopes local historians and experts will be able to take part in the tours and tell visitors about the island's history.

The island was created in 1844 and at its peak around 80 people operated and maintained the lock and river from the site.

Barbed wire, trenches and loophole windows were installed on the island in the Second World War as part of efforts to protect fuel deliveries.