How the wheel will look according to Lab Tech’s plans

THE Town Hall’s deputy leader has written to Sadiq Khan asking him to block the big wheel attraction planned for Camden Lock.

Labour councillor Pat Callaghan watched her party colleagues on the planning committee vote in favour of the scheme last month – but it still needs a final sign-off from Mayor of London.

In a written plea to intervene, Cllr Callaghan and her fellow ward colleague Councillor Richard Cotton said: “The proposed wheel would be intrusive, out of character and would add nothing of interest to local people. To quote His Majesty the King (in his earlier incarnation as Prince of Wales and on a different subject) it would be ‘a monstrous carbuncle on the face of a much-loved and elegant friend’.”

They have also warned that market owner Lab Tech’s stated aim of increasing the number of visitors to Camden Town was not feasible – particularly with the overcrowded tube station which the letter said was “not fit for purpose”, adding: “Turning Camden Lock into a theme park with a Ferris Wheel will undermine that and detract from its unique character.”

And the message from Cllr Cotton, a former mayor of Camden, and Cllr Callaghan, warned of potential political consequences with hundreds of residents watching what Mr Khan decides to do.

“We received a record number of complaints about this planning application and there is overwhelming public opposition to it,” it said. “If the ‘Observation Wheel’ goes ahead, we fear it may impact adversely on Labour’s electoral prospects and we are only too aware that there is a mayoral election next May.”

The proposed works also include opening up the “east vaults” by the canal to create an exhibition and performance space. The wheel has been presented as a temporary installation for a five year period. Lab Tech say their ideas will bring in more Camden Town residents, and help traders who are trying to bounce back from Covid disruption.

A spokesperson said after planning consent was granted: “It enables us to continue rolling out our cultural plan and the delivery of a mixed use portfolio to live, work shop and entertain. “As a long-term investor in Camden, Lab Tech is committed to continue to invest in the markets restoration and these proposals are an exciting step forward.”