Controversial plans to replace the “iconic” advertising structure on Wandsworth Roundabout, which appeared in Stanley Kubrick’s 1971 film A Clockwork Orange, have been recommended for approval by council officers. Wandsworth Council’s planning committee will make the final decision on Thursday, September 17.
The large circular advertising structure, installed in 1995, has become a local landmark. Wildstone Estates, which acquired the structure last year under a long lease with Transport for London (TfL), submitted proposals to replace it with a timber tree-inspired design. The firm worked with architects Tate + Co on the plans, aiming to increase revenue generation at the site.
Residents raise 153 objections
Residents have voiced strong opposition, with 153 objections lodged on the council’s website. Critics described the proposed structure as an “eyesore” and argued the money would be better spent on other infrastructure upgrades. One objector wrote: “It’s extremely ugly and unneeded in the area. Another eyesore in Wandsworth for no good reason. What a waste of money.”
Another commented: “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 added: “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.”
Officers recommend approval despite criticism
Despite the public backlash, council officers recommended the scheme for approval, stating there were no planning concerns that required refusal. In a report, they said: “The proposal would have a similar scale and visual impact to the existing structure it would replace and would continue to fulfil the role of providing a townscape focal point to the roundabout.” They also confirmed the project is privately funded, so no public money is involved.
The new structure would be roughly 25 metres tall, with four advertising boards similar to the original but slightly larger. Officers ruled it would not be much more “visually dominant” than the current structure. They added: “The replacement structure has generated publicity and strong views from local residents about its appearance, but there is not considered to be any substantive reason to object to the chosen design approach in terms of its assessment against material planning considerations as criticism in terms of its design are subjective.”
Design aims to enrich surroundings
Planning documents from Wildstone and Tate + Co stated: “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.” They added: “The proposals present the opportunity to refresh the site with a high-quality creative design that reflects the iconic location and showcases new investment in the area.”
The underpass beneath the roundabout featured at the start of Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange. The council confirmed it could not require the applicant to offer any upgrades to the surrounding public space. Wildstone and Tate + Co have been contacted for comment. The planning committee’s decision on September 17 will determine whether the replacement proceeds.
