London Eye Ferris Wheel Aspires to Permanence

LONDON--It was meant to be in place for just five years. But London’s giant Ferris wheel, raised with great fanfare to mark the millennium, has proved so popular that organizers have applied for permission to make it a permanent fixture.

The 450-foot-high, $51-million structure, officially named the British Airways London Eye and located on the south bank of the River Thames, has been ridden by more than 7 million people since it opened in March 2000.

Originally the wheel was granted temporary permission to remain in place for five years. Organizers say permanent status would attract investment to improve the wheel as well as local facilities.

--Associated Press