Clockwork Orange landmark set to be replaced

Controversial plans to replace an "iconic" south London landmark above an underpass which featured in Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange, have been recommended for approval.

The big circular advertising structure at the centre of Wandsworth Roundabout has become a local landmark since its installation in 1995, but a new timber tree-inspired structure looks set to be given the go-ahead by Wandsworth Council on Thursday.

Residents have criticised the plans across 153 objections on the council's website, saying it would be an "eyesore" and "waste of money".

Wandsworth Council said it would be a "similar scale" to the existing structure and provide a "focal point to the roundabout."

Council officers have recommended the project for approval and said there were no planning concerns that required its refusal.

They also confirmed the project would be privately funded.

Advertising specialists Wildstone Estates put forward the proposal in a bid to increase revenue generation at the site, after acquiring the structure last year under a long lease with Transport for London (TfL).

The new roughly 25m-tall structure would have four advertising boards, like the original, but they would be slightly bigger.

In response to the plans on the council's website, one person said: "I strongly object to the new structure. The current one is iconic.

"The new design is garish, will not age well design or materials-wise, and also a complete waste of money."

Another said the project "represents money that could be much better spent on improvements that genuinely benefit local residents."

Planning documents said: "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."

Wandsworth's planning committee will make a decision on the proposals on September 17.

Wildstone and Tate + Co have been contacted for comment.

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