Stratford's Observation Wheel coming at Easter

Stratford's Observation Wheel is schedule to be in position by Easter following the approval of the planning permission at the Planning Committee (West) on 14 March.  

The Planning Committee's decision means that the plans for the installation of the wheel can now go ahead and be operational by Easter.  

Cllr Dave Riches, Enterprise and Revenues Portfolio says: "The wheel gives visitors a different perspective of Stratford, with outstanding views and access for all, young and old and is a complementary attraction to the existing businesses and attractions in that location.  

"Tourism is a major source of the town's prosperity and the wheel only enhances the tourist industry in the town, providing an additional attraction.  One of the visions in the District Council's Core Strategy for Stratford-upon-Avon is that visitors will visit the town and stay longer by expanding the cultural offer and this plays a part in achieving this.  

"The wheel reinforces and promotes Stratford's role as a tourist destination by adding to the tourist offer of facilities available with the town.  

"The District Council also has to think about using council assets more innovatively and creatively to help plug the ever reducing Government funding streams."  

The Planning Committee (West) approved the application by Birmingham-based Danter Attractions by seven votes to one.

The permission was for a temporary 3 year period with a maximum installation and operation period of 6 months within in each year and for the use to be for a continuous period between March and October each year only.