...By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
Artist David Gentleman, a long-time resident of Camden and well-known for his drawings of the area, has expressed his opposition to plans for a 40 metre Ferris Wheel in Dead Dog Basin.
According to the Camden New Journal, Gentleman called the idea “appalling” and argued that the historic visual impact of the area would be damaged by such a large structure.
He also expressed concern about the effect on footfall, which he believes is already at capacity, and suggested that the wheel would be more suited to a theme park than a historic neighbourhood.
Gentleman has lived near Camden Lock for almost 70 years and has documented the area’s historic buildings and landmarks in his paintings and drawings, which have been exhibited in galleries and reproduced in books.
His objection to the Ferris Wheel is part of a wider campaign against the proposal, which includes a Facebook protest group and opposition from some traders in the market.
However, there are also supporters of the plan, and it is currently being considered by the Town Hall along with other proposals for the area.
These include an events space on the ground floor of the Grade-II listed Interchange Building.
Planners have suggested that the wheel would only be in place for five years.
Despite being known for his work throughout London, Gentleman’s scenes of Camden are particularly famous, and he has also created a mural for Charing Cross underground station.
Commentary:
David Gentleman, a long-standing resident of Camden and an artist who has captured the area’s visual character in his work, has expressed his opposition to plans for a Ferris Wheel in Dead Dog Basin.
His objection is based on the belief that the historic visual impact of the area would be diminished by such a large structure, and that it would be more suited to a theme park than a neighbourhood known for its historic buildings and landmarks.
His opposition is part of a wider campaign against the proposal, which includes objections from traders and local residents.
The proposed Ferris Wheel is currently under consideration by the Town Hall, along with other proposals for the area.
Planners have suggested that it would only be in place for five years.
The outcome of the proposal is uncertain, and the debate highlights the challenges of balancing the preservation of a neighbourhood’s character with the desire for economic growth and development.
