Leeds is set to join the likes of London and York by having its own city centre big wheel.
Towering taller than Nelson’s Column the new Observation Wheel Leeds (OWL) is set to give visitors a bird’s eye view of the city.
The 60-metre wheel will be located at the open surface of the car park near Kirkgate Market between George Street and Union Street.
Ten specially trained technicians will build the giant structure in one week ahead of its official opening on Saturday, February 16.
Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor Keith Wakefield said: “We are delighted to welcome this observation wheel to Leeds.
“It will offer a real bird’s eye view of the city centre and for miles around.
“Together with the Ice Cube on Millennium Square, it is a great addition to the new tourism campaign aimed at boosting visitors and investment in the city.
“It is fantastic to have another fun and exciting attraction ideal for families to come into the centre of Leeds and enjoy.
“We look forward to seeing it full of people making the most of the chance to see the city in a way they’ve never seen it before.”
The wheel, which previously made appearances at the Olympics and the Royal Wedding celebrations, has 40 illuminated gondolas.
Each gondola can carry up to six passengers.
Edward Mellors, who is the director of the Mellors Group, said it had taken a number of years to find a suitable location for the wheel in Leeds.
He said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Leeds City Council to bring the giant observation wheel to the city, and look forward to welcoming the public to this attraction.
“It has taken a number of years to find a suitable site within the city that can accommodate this size of structure, and we are delighted that we have now found one.”
The Observation Wheel Leeds will be open on Monday to Saturday, between 10am and 10pm, and Sunday from 10am until 6pm.
Admission is £6 for adults, £5 for concessions, £4 for children and it is free for under threes.
For more information visit www.observationwheelleeds.co.uk.
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