Giant observation wheel on Worthing seafront given thumbs up

A giant observation wheel on Worthing’s seafront has been given permission for the next three years. The 46-metre high wheel will be situated between the pier and lido, with 36 gondolas having the capacity to hold six people each.De-Koning Leisure Group is looking to run the attraction for nine months out of each year starting in 2019 for three years. Temporary planning permission was granted by Worthing Borough Council’s planning committee tonight (Wednesday March 27) by six votes to one with one abstention.Before making a decision councillors heard objections from nearby residents who raised concerns about a loss of privacy and disruption, but also from supporters who felt the wheel would have a significant positive impact on the town’s economy.Applicant Jan De-Koning said he wanted to bring the wheel to the ‘wonderful town of Worthing’. He attempted to reassure residents by describing the structure as ‘graceful and stylish’ while there would be no flashing lights or music played. They have operated wheels in Leicester, Sunderland, Bolton, Carmarthen and Beaumaris in Anglesey.