Genuinely shocked by Finna Ayres’ nonchalant response, particularly given how little consideration appears to have been given to the character and heritage of these bridges, which are over 137 years old (sating back to 1889).Blue and yellow may be described as "cheerful and positive", but they are simply not in keeping with the heritage or architectural character of these historic structures. I would have expected far more thought and sensitivity to have gone into the design, particularly given their historical significance.And when you consider that the reported cost of the works is £600,000, it is even more difficult to understand why greater care wasn’t taken to ensure the result was appropriate. At that level of expenditure, surely the expectation should be a scheme that respects and enhances the heritage of the bridges, rather than one that feels so starkly out of place.As for suggesting that the colours should be viewed as a tribute to Ukraine, that is not a justification for the design. Supporting Ukraine is entirely separate from whether blue and yellow are appropriate for these historic structures. Invoking Ukraine in response to legitimate criticism of the design feels like an attempt to deflect from the real issue: whether the money spent on these works has resulted in something that is appropriate, considered and respectful of the bridges and their surroundings.The casual attitude towards the concerns is, to me, just as disappointing as the choice of colours itself.
Laura Kaye ● 9d