Overbearing?

Published: 28 May, 2010

• THE decision of Westminster City Council’s planning committee to approve the structure memorialising Bomber Command in Green Park was not unanimous.  

I reluctantly voted to refuse it on design grounds.  
Of course, the courage of Bomber Command should be recognised, their bravery is not in doubt.

But what the Command was required to do was not unproblematic.
Moreover, 65 years have passed, we are part of the European Union, and painstaking, and painful, reconciliations have, thankfully, taken place.

In today’s context the design of the structure is inappropriately overbearing. Reflecting the large buildings opposite on Piccadilly it is heavily incongruous in the sylvan context of Green Park, along whose edge it is to stand.

The work by the sculptor Philip Jackson, which is to stand inside the structure might, on its own, have been a fitting tribute; but its effect will be spoiled by the disappointing, heavy-handed offering which will surround it.
CLLR RUTH BUSH
Labour, Harrow Road