HAVE YOUR SAY: Ferris wheel plan for Gloucester

By jsilver

A huge Ferris wheel is set to change Gloucester's skyline this summer.

Plans have been submitted for the historic Docks to gets its own version of the Millennium Wheel.

The application by British Waterways would see the 35m high structure built next to the Victoria Dock.

It would give a bird's eye view of the city from June 5 until August 16 as part of the Tall Ships Festival.

Suzie Mercher, marketing and communications manager for British Waterways, said: "We were looking for ways to attract new visitors.

"With the closing of Merchant's Quay and the reduction of opening hours at the Waterways Museum there has not been much for visitors. The Designer Outlet Centre is opening soon and we wanted to create an exciting and major attraction to draw visitors from there up into the Docks."

The wheel is the same one which was used in Manchester during the Millennium celebrations. It was built in 1989 and has been used across the country.

British Waterways said the attraction would provide visitors with a new view of one of Gloucester's most historic locations.

Paul James, leader of Gloucester City Council said: "The London Eye has been a huge success and it is a great opportunity for Gloucester to have its own version."

Shoppers and office workers welcomed the plans.

Miri Wyndow, 23, said: "I think it would be good but I'm not sure there will be much to see from the top."

Debbie Proud, 45, and her daughter Lauren 17, said they would go on the wheel if it came to Gloucester.

Debbie said: "It sounds like a good idea. It would probably bring more people down to the Docks."

Student Lauren studies at nearby Gloucestershire College.

She said: "I study photography so it would be amazing for me."

A decision on the wheel plan will be made later in the year.

But what do you think? Should a Ferris wheel be installed in Gloucester?

Would it bring a much-needed boost to the city, or would it attract the wrong kind of publicity?

Whatever you view, use the form below to let us know...