Yarmouth Eye observation wheel boss seeks two year extension

William Abbott, who owns the company Observation Wheel UK, is seeking permission from Great Yarmouth Borough Council to operate the attraction on South Beach Parade year-round until February 1, 2027. 

The wheel, known locally as the ‘Yarmouth Eye’, features 36 gondolas seating up to six people each and is situated on council-owned land.

The proposal will be discussed next week by members of Town Hall’s development management committee. 

The Yarmouth Eye could remain on the seafront until 2027. (Image: James Weeds)

Ahead of the meeting, planning officials are recommending approval of the temporary extension.  

In a report, they noted that while the wheel’s direct job creation is limited, its presence increases footfall to the benefit of nearby businesses.  

The proposal also points to the wheel’s complementary role amid the ongoing regeneration projects, such as the Winter Gardens restoration nearby. 

Planners also stressed that the extended permission should remain temporary to allow monitoring of its economic benefits and impact on the local heritage.  

The planning report suggests that extending the wheel's stay offers a temporary tourist attraction alternative while the town undergoes other revitalization projects. 

The wheel has been on the seafront since May 2022. 

Its retention would come in the wake of similar temporary permissions granted to other nearby attractions, including the ‘Slingshot’, a ride approved in July 2024 for a 2.5-year operation at the northern end of South Beach Gardens.  

READ MORE: Council officers fail in bid to catapult attraction off Great Yarmouth's Golden Mile

That application had faced objections from council officers who believed it was "unsightly".

If approved, the extended placement of the 'Yarmouth Eye' would begin on February 1, 2025. 

The council’s final decision will be made at its development management committee meeting on Wednesday, November 13.