Clock tower balls debate goes on
WITH reference to the numerous letters regarding to the now infamous clock tower balls, and indeed the decisions made by the council leading to their installation, (something which surely should be called "Ballgate" by now), I would like to add my voice to those in favour.
I have watched and read with curiosity, over the past few weeks, the various objections to the roundabout design. Most, if not all, focus on the innapropriate nature of the design.
I would therefore like to ask these people to elaborate on their concerns. The level of outrage aimed in the direction of this sculpture would lead many outside the town to think that the council had given the go ahead for the erection of a monstrosity, the likes of which East Anglia had never seen before.
Low and behold though, visitors to the town were greeted with a simple, minimalist and, dare I say, elegant design rather than the doubtlessly expected 40ft altar to the pagan god of war. Just imagine the dissapointment.
It has also been said that the roundabout is not in keeping with such a historic town as Newmarket but this is a purely subjective matter.
Do the various, garishly-lit and decorated fast food outlets stay in keeping with the town aesthetic, or do people think that maybe the balls should have had a touch of neon to finish the ensemble, and stay in keeping with the shops?
Further talk of removing the balls seems nonsensical in the extreme.
Like them or not, there can be no justification for the waste of town money this would entail. Given the perilous state of the economy at present, writing off thousands of pounds to appease the angry mob would be a far greater scandal than any sculptor could hope to achieve.
Simon Wheeler
Highclere Close
Newmarket
I WOULD like to congratulate Mr Doug Misson for writing the first sensible letter I have seen regarding the new clock tower junction.
The hysterical criticism by the majority of letter writers of the work being carried out will surely subside now that the cones and barriers are removed to reveal a much-improved area with planted areas and safer pavements.
Like Doug, I think the roundabout looks great, too. Let's face it, even the placard waving trainers' wives have not made too much fuss about it.
All that is required now is for motorists to adhere to the Highway Code and give the new layout at the lights a chance.
If people stop jumping red lights and remember not to enter a junction before the exit is clear, then it may just have a chance of working.
Greg Davis
Lisburn Road
Newmarket
WITH regard to recent correspondence concerning the Clock Tower roundabout: put me firmly on the side of Doug Misson and his reasoned approval of the scheme.
I can't be the only resident of the neighbourhood who is utterly wearied by the "'shock, horror – how dare they…" response to any attempt to bring Newmarket however, gently, abreast of modern times.
David Pugh
Tithe Close
Gazeley
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Friday 25 May 2012
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