FRUSTRATED residents say they should have been consulted on the design of a controversial Olympic landmark which is set to dominate the east London skyline.

The view from homes across Redbridge will be dramatically altered when Anish Kapoor's 115m tall artwork the ArcelorMittal Orbit is constructed at the Olympic Park in Stratford.

Critics say people living within sight of the eyecatching £19 million structure - which will be taller than the Statue of Liberty - should have been asked for their views on its final design, and have labelled the selection process 'elitist' for excluding the public.

Kevin Mansell, 62, who lives next to Wanstead Flats - just a couple of miles from the Olympic Park - has called on residents to lead a new campaign for a design which is approved by the public.

The father-of three said: "I think it's quite outrageous that this edifice, drawing a reported £8m from public funds, has been announced by the Mayor of London after being chosen by a committee of nine "experts".

"If there was a public competition, then I failed to notice it, though I understand Anthony Gormley submitted an unsuccessful design.

"Why is this enormous construction, which will dominate the skyline of Stratford permanently, being foisted on us with no opportunity for public comment or consultation?

"It seems such a terrible insult to modern democratic processes and local empowerment that no-one appears, for even a moment, to have considered giving the public in East London some choice in the shaping of our local landscape and heritage.

"I think the whole show is a total disgrace and more worthy of the bread and circuses of ancient Rome, or the demented fascist grandeur of Nazi Germany, than the product of the healthy functioning of a modern metropolitan democratic society."

Opponents of Kapoor's design have even started a new Facebook protest group against it called 'I hate London 2012s Orbit Tower.'

Martha Cover, of Draycott Road, Wanstead, said friends from Canada even emailed her to ask whether the structure was an April Fools joke.

She said: "They couldn't believe what it looked like.

"I think it's hideous.

"This is something that is going to be here for years so why have people living nearby not been given a say on it?"

Not all residents dislike the design however, with Chris Bennett, 43, of Chaucer Road, Wanstead, praising its distinctive look.

He said: "It's different, and will be something that people remember.

"Look at the Eiffel Tower. People didn't like that when it was first built."

London Mayor Boris Johnson, who helped select the landmark said: "Long after the Games are over our aim is to have a stunning spectacle in east London that will be recognised around the world.

"I'm thrilled that when visitors from every corner of the globe plan trips to our must see attractions they will now eagerly include the Orbit.

"It will be an internationally acclaimed family attraction and I would like to thank Mr Mittal for his generous support.

"Anish Kapoor's inspired art work will truly encapsulate the energy and spirit of London during the Games and as such will become the perfect iconic cultural legacy."

A spokesman for the mayor's office said a full consultation would be carried out as part of the planning application for the sculpture.

He said:"We will be holding a series of open days for members of the community to come and learn more about the project and the enormous benefits it will have for the area, for the Games and well beyond."