June 7, 2021

A new observation wheel will be built on Clacton Pier and is planned to be ready for its first customers at the weekend.

Permission for the 33 metre high ride has been granted by Tendring District Council.

Work will begin on the site on the forecourt of the iconic seaside attraction tomorrow and will be completed by the end of the week.

The wheel is 33 metres high with 24 cars and can take up to 144 people at one time.

Pier director Billy Ball said that he is delighted that the project has now got the green light and can go ahead.

“We have been waiting for some time to be able to introduce this new attraction which is all part of our plans to celebrate our 150^th birthday, and that of the town,” he said.

“Along with the new Looping Star roller coaster it will provide our visitors with two major new rides this summer which will enhance our offer and they represent a significant investment on our part.

“We received planning permission at the end of last week and we are wasting no time in putting the wheel up.

“The council’s planning department came to the conclusion that the structure will not harm the significance of the Clacton Seafront Conservation Area or nearby heritage assets and would benefit tourism.”

Mr Ball said the ride will be called the Clacton Pier Wheel experience and can be open seven days a week from 9am to 10pm.

“It will cost £3 per person, or £10 for a car of up to six with a maximum of four adults,” added Mr Ball.

“This will be a community wheel which we will also use as a focus for fundraising activities for charity.”

A new shellfish and seafood unit for Tubby Isaacs will be returning to the forecourt later this month once it has been completed.

The previous building was removed earlier this year to make way for the wheel.

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