LIVERPOOL’S iconic Superlambanana is to remain in the city for at least another 80 years, under the terms of a deal to be signed today.

It will successfully bring to an end a year-long campaign by the Daily Post to secure its future in Liverpool, after it was revealed the city did not own the 17ft sculpture.

The terms of the deal are being kept secret due to commercial confidentiality, but the Daily Post understands the city will pay in the region of £125,000 for the artwork.

As part of the deal, Japanese creator Taro Chiezo will oversee the construction of a new sculpture which will be made from tougher materials than the original.

After Superlambanana mark II is complete, the original sculpture will be handed to Mr Chiezo, who is expected to sell it, possibly by auction.

Last night, he said: “I thank Francis McEntegart [his legal representative] and Liverpool city council for their great work in finding a happy resolution to this complex matter.

“I’m looking forward to a new era for the Superlambanana in the city I love.”

The Superlambanana first arrived in Liverpool in 1998 but was limited to a 10-year display licence.

At first it was controversial, but slowly the strange creation became a popular feature and recognised symbol of Liverpool, and led to a small industry making miniatures being established.

The Superlambanana has had various homes in the city, including outside ships chandlers JP Lamb, on The Strand, before it was demolished for redevelopment.

It currently stands guard outside the Liverpool John Moores University learning resource centre, in Tithebarn Street.

In February last year, Mr McEntegart revealed it could be sold at the end of Capital of Culture, possibly to Manchester, and the Daily Post launched a campaign to save the sculpture.

Our campaign was backed by celebrities and key figures in the city.