Boro Wheel to roll into town (From The Northern Echo)

Boro Wheel to roll into town

2:19pm Tuesday 24th November 2009

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THE biggest wheel in the North-East will roll into Middlesbrough town centre this weekend.

The 40m high structure will remain a major draw in Centre Square until Christmas.

The Boro wheel, similar to the iconic London Eye, will be the only one of its kind in the North-East and is expected to create about 20 jobs.

A manager is being recruited alongside customer service assistants and attraction controllers.

The wheel will be located next to mima art gallery and Teesside Crown Court as well as the town hall and central library.

It will feature 30 glass-sided and climate-controlled observation pods, each carrying up to eight people with a specially recorded on-board commentary.

Planning approval for a six month residency was granted by Middlesbrough Council in April this year to Great City Attractions (GCA), formerly known as World Tourist Attractions, which operates big wheels in Brisbane, London, Paris and Singapore.

Its installation will require no foundation work and GCA will undertake any necessary restoration to the ground following its removal.

High expectations that Middlesbrough's newest attraction would arrive soon after were dashed when no suitable wheel could be found.

Ray Mallon, Mayor of Middlesbrough, said: "We were disappointed not to be able to bring the wheel to Centre Square earlier in the year, but we gave an undertaking to work together to make the project happen.

"We have had fantastic support from local people who have been overwhelmingly in favour of the project."

He added: "It is just the sort of initiative that marks Middlesbrough out as a major destination with real ambition and self-belief, adding to the town's reputation as a focal point both in the region and further afield."

A trip will cost £5 for adults, £3 for children aged three to 16 and £1 for children aged one to three.

Rides will last around 12 minutes and feature three revolutions of the wheel, affording passengers panoramic views across Middlesbrough to the coast and the Cleveland Hills.

Andy Millichamp, GCA spokesman said: "We are confident that the Giant Observation Wheel will be a welcome addition to Middlesbrough's skyline, offering residents and visitors alike the chance to see this great town from a completely new and unique perspective."

For further details about job opportunities at the big wheel contact Middlesbrough Jobcentre Plus on 08456-002808.

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