Plans to replace the iconic advertising structure on Wandsworth Roundabout with a timber tree-inspired design have drawn 86 objections from residents, who describe the proposal as an "eyesore" and a waste of money. The current circular structure, installed in 1995, is a local landmark and appeared in Stanley Kubrick's 1971 film A Clockwork Orange.
Proposed Replacement Structure
Advertising specialists Wildstone Estates, which acquired the structure last year under a long lease with Transport for London (TfL), submitted the plans to Wandsworth Council. The firm, working with architects Tate + Co, proposes a roughly 25-metre-tall timber structure with four advertising boards, slightly larger than the originals, in a bid to increase revenue generation at the site.
Planning documents state: "The redesign of Wandsworth Roundabout is an opportunity to rethink a vital layer of London’s advertising infrastructure, and redefine how such structures can enrich their surroundings." The proposals aim to reuse existing foundations, with no significant increase in scale and screen sizes remaining as existing.
Resident Objections
Residents have voiced strong opposition on the council's website, with 86 objections lodged so far. One resident wrote: "It’s extremely ugly and unneeded in the area. Another eyesore in Wandsworth for no good reason. What a waste of money." Another said: "I strongly object to the new structure. The current one is iconic, it has been perfectly and recently improved with the dark paint. It is clean and simple. The new design is garish, will not age well design or materials wise, and also a complete waste of money."
A third commented: "In my view, this structure will be an unnecessary eyesore and represents money that could be much better spent on improvements that genuinely benefit local residents."
Historical Significance and Next Steps
The roundabout's underpass was featured at the start of Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange, adding to its cultural significance. The planning documents argue the proposals offer "the opportunity to refresh the site with a high-quality creative design that reflects the iconic location and showcases new investment in the area."
Wildstone and Tate + Co have been contacted for comment. Wandsworth Council will decide on the plans in due course.
