As often discussed on this site, it can be difficult to define what being a "conservative" (or a "Conservative") is. Indeed, as I write I realise that some readers will read this piece, think of the free market and capitalism, and think I'm off-beam. But in my humble opinion, one interesting and useful little litmus test might be - does this make you angry?
Tower Bridge Faces Future as 'Glorified Ad Hoarding' - The City says banners on famous landmark would be 'carefully chosen'TOWER BRIDGE could be draped in advertising over Christmas if plans to sell space on the famous London icon get the go-ahead.
The 19th century bridge is one of the most recognised landmarks in London and traditionalists would likely protest at the idea of using it as a prop for ads.
But the people behind the proposal – The City of London Corporation – say that the scheme would be in good taste.
"The brand will be carefully chosen with preference going to Olympic sponsors and the brand will be tightly controlled," read a statement from the Corporation.
"There is no intention whatsoever that Tower Bridge becomes a glorified advertising hoarding. The City recognises and protects the bridge as a grade I listed building, a significant part of London's heritage and a global icon."
Behind the advert-plan lies what the Corporation calls a "one-off opportunity" in the form of scaffolding that is to surround the lower part of the bridge for essential painting work for three months this winter.
The idea is advert banners could be hung from the scaffolding.
Before the ads go up, the Corporation has to convince both neighbouring councils - Southwark and Lambeth – that it's a good idea.
Let's hope those Boroughs tell them where to stick it. And what exactly are we talking about? A little poster, perhaps? A small image decoratively done? Oh, no:
The official planning application to Southwark reads:
"Temporary advertising banner (12 weeks) attached to scaffolding shroud which will be erected to enable the painting works to be undertaken on the bascules (lifting sections of the Grade I listed bridge) both of which will measure approximately 39m long by 11 to 5.5m high each side."
Thirty-nine metres?!
Should you wish to express a view, the consultation process is open (until 6 October) here. Full piece here. Harrumph.
