A giant observation wheel offering panoramic vistas across Plymouth has secured approval to operate on The Hoe for the next four years.
The attraction will run from March through September, despite objections from heritage specialists and a local neighbourhood forum concerned about its effect on the area's numerous listed memorials and monuments.
Plymouth City Council's planning committee members heard that the grassed section of Hoe Park, situated east of Armada Way and north of the Promenade, represented the most appropriate location for the structure, which stands 34 metres tall and spans 33 metres in width.
READ MORE: {}
An observation wheel is presently functioning under permitted development rights at the site until 1st September, with various planning consents granted over the years for temporary use, including approval for a 53-metre-high wheel in 2011.
Nevertheless, an application for annual temporary positioning of the wheel was rejected last year due to insufficient assessment of the visual impact and effects on the historic environment.
Cllr Sally Haydon (Lab, St Budeaux) described The Hoe as Plymouth's "jewel in the crown" and a flourishing destination in its own right, noting that the wheel had established itself as "a landmark" and received positive reception from local enterprises whilst drawing numerous tourists.
She explained it could be accessed by wheelchair users and individuals with restricted mobility who were unable to access other attractions such as Smeaton's Tower, alongside dogs who can even enter the gondolas, each accommodating six passengers.
"Torquay, Bristol and Falmouth have all accommodated an observation wheel and so has France with its medieval cities, why can't we?".
Most Read
She said operators JCB Events were situated in the South West and came with strong endorsements from other local authorities, having conducted extensive surveys and pledged to restore the site to its original state once the wheel was removed each year.
"Our duty is to listen to residents. The wheel has only been up for a short time so far this year and we have had so many fantastic comments."
Two objection letters were lodged with Plymouth City Council from residents, whilst opposition was received from Historic England, The Gardens Trust, the council's urban and historic environment teams and the Hoe Neighbourhood Forum.
Concerns were raised regarding the loss of designated public space, impact on Plymouth Hoe's vistas and the proposed positioning of the wheel within The Royal Citadel Scheduled Ancient Monument's setting.
Cllr Tina Tuohy (Lab, Ham) said she recalled the previous wheel and found it "quite disturbing and out of place" during the remembrance service.
"When it was turning it was totally out of place, but now it is being closed at the end of September I think that problem is solved," she said.
Committee members demanded that a condition be imposed to limit the wheel's operation during sensitive occasions.
Don’t miss
Cllr Paul McNamara (Lab, Efford and Lipson) said he was reluctantly supporting the proposal because it benefited the economy but remarked "it's not pretty."
Cllr Jeremy Goslin (Lab, Peverell) said he recognised the importance of positioning a "massive wheel" alongside a national monument but noted the Hoe was a multi-purpose space featuring a lighthouse, lido and other facilities, where some were more suitable than others.
"It would be inappropriate if you had a garden of remembrance and you slapped a rollercoaster through it but I think given the multi use of the Hoe this site makes sense."
The proposal received unanimous backing from the planning committee.