The decision by unionist councillors to spend public funds placing a large temporary tribute to Queen Elizabeth above a Co Antrim roundabout could be justified if the design was tasteful, represented good value for money and above all was in line with basic planning regulations.
However, even though the garish metal crown which has become known locally as the `Burger King Mound' was fairly clearly in breach of all three criteria when it appeared in 2012, an attempt is still being made to make it a permanent feature on Circular Road in Larne.
One unionist representative conceded yesterday that the structure was `not the Hanging Gardens of Babylon', but defended both the initial bill of £13,000 and the proposal to provide it with indefinite official approval.
If members of the Mid and East Antrim Council endorse the motion which is due to be discussed tomorrow, they will neatly sum up why so many rate-payers oppose extending any further powers to district authorities.
