Camden-based artist David Gentleman has said plans for a 40 metre Ferris Wheel in the area are an “appalling idea”.
Gentleman, who is famous for drawing picures of Camden and the surrounds, and has lived there for nearly 70 years, said the new feature in Dead Dog Basin should not go ahead, reports the Camden New Journal.
“I have lived near Camden Lock since 1956. From the beginning of my time here I have drawn and painted the historic scenes just down the road from where I live in Gloucester Crescent.
“My pictures have been reproduced in my books and exhibited in many galleries. Part of the success of the Lock has been its visual effect and to install a large Ferris wheel in front of the most beautiful old factory is an appalling idea.”
He added: “The footfall is at its capacity now and to encourage more visitors interested in fairground and theme park activity is really bad planning.”
There is a Facebook protest group, and others in the neighbourhood are also objecting. However, there has also been some support, including from traders in the market.
Planners say the wheel would only be there five years. Proposals currently being looked at by the Town Hall also include an events space on the ground floor of the Grade-II listed Interchange Building.
Gentleman is famous for his work around London, but his scenes in Camden are particularly well-known. He also did a mural for Charing Cross underground station.
